Matya Festival of Lights Set to Illuminate Patan

Photo: Beeju Maharjan / TDN

Kathmandu: The centuries-old Buddhist festival of Matya will once again light up the historic streets of Patan this Saturday, August 17. Known as the “Festival of Lights,” Matya is among the most vibrant and distinctive celebrations of the Newar Buddhist community, held in Patan and in Thecho a day later.

Observed on the third day of the dark fortnight of Shrawan, Matya begins at dawn, when thousands of devotees embark on a day-long procession, visiting every Buddhist shrine in and around Patan. With more than 1,300 shrines in the city, the colorful parade, joined annually by an estimated three to four thousand participants, fills the ancient streets with devotion, music, and light.

According to tradition, Matya commemorates Lord Buddha’s victory over vice. Its origins trace back to the time when Shakyamuni Gautam, deep in meditation to attain Nirvana, was confronted by the Maras — jealous beings who tried to sway him with fearsome demons and alluring temptresses. The Buddha remained unshaken, ultimately overcoming temptation. Legend says the Maras later repented, paid homage to the Enlightened One, and offered lights in reverence, giving birth to this luminous tradition.

For Patan, Matya is more than just a parade, it is a living heritage, a radiant expression of faith, and a timeless reminder of the triumph of virtue over vice.

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