Ghantakarna Chaturdashi, also known as Gathemangal, is a significant festival celebrated in Bhaktapur, an ancient city in Nepal. This vibrant festival is marked by the creation of an effigy of the demon deity Ghantakarna, which is placed at crossroads, set on fire, and subsequently dragged to the river. Ghantakarna Chaturdashi 2024 date is August 3.
Timing of the Festival
Gathemangal falls on Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi, the fourteenth day during the waning phase of the moon in the month of Shrawan (July/August). This day is also referred to as Ghantakarna Chaturdashi, commemorating the death of the mythical demon Ghantakarna.
The Legend of Ghantakarna
According to local legends, Ghantakarna was a fearsome demon who terrorized villagers by abducting children and women, demanding ransom in the form of money and gifts for their release. He had a terrifying appearance, with his body painted in red, blue, and black, and he wore a pair of bells on his ears. The bells jingled whenever he moved, which is how he got his name: 'Ghanta' meaning 'bell' and 'Karna' meaning 'ears'.
The villagers lived in constant fear of Ghantakarna, rarely venturing outside their homes, even during the critical planting season. One day, a large number of frogs began to croak near Ghantakarna’s dwelling. Annoyed and furious, the demon tried to catch them, but the frogs leaped into the water. Ghantakarna followed them into what turned out to be a swamp. Overwhelmed by the frogs, he drowned, freeing the villagers from his tyranny.
Observance of the Festival
The Gathemangal festival also symbolizes cleanliness and purification. During this time, households undertake thorough cleaning, both inside and outside, to dispose of accumulated garbage. This act is metaphorically seen as driving away evil spirits that have been neglected during the busy planting season, when sanitation is often compromised, leading to various pest infestations.
In the previous month of Ashar, when plantation activities are at their peak, villagers believe that the spirits of their ancestors return home to protect it. Hence, they clean their premises, prepare food offerings for these spirits, and sprinkle sacred water from Shiva temples to purify their residences.
Rituals and Customs
On the day of Gathemangal, a person is chosen to represent the offspring of the demon Ghantakarna and is symbolically held accountable for the demon’s deeds. Throughout the day and night, torches are burned to drive out evil spirits. In the evening, an effigy of Ghantakarna is dragged to a nearby river and set ablaze.
Additionally, it is customary to place a fortified iron, brass, or copper ring with three or five legs at the doorstep of the house after the ritual bell has rung. This practice is believed to ward off evil spirits and protect the household.
Gathemangal is a rich cultural festival that blends mythological tales with rituals promoting community cleanliness and spiritual purification. The festivities serve as a reminder of the victory of good over evil and the importance of maintaining cleanliness and order in society.