The historic Kartik Naach, one of Nepal’s most remarkable traditional dance-dramas, returned to Patan Durbar Square in Lalitpur on November 13, 2026. This year, the 385-year-old cultural tradition features 12 evenings of masked performances, traditional music and mythological storytelling, continuing until November 24.
Organised by the Kartik Naach Preservation Committee, the performances begin at 7 PM each evening at Kartik Dabali in Mangal Bazar. The festival remains an important expression of Newar cultural heritage, attracting audiences interested in Nepal's traditional performing arts.
Kartik Naach, also known as Katti Pyakhan in Nepal Bhasa, was established in 1641 AD (Nepal Sambat 761) by King Siddhi Narasimha Malla of Patan.
The tradition was introduced to promote peace, religious devotion and moral teachings through artistic performances. It was subsequently expanded under King Srinivas Malla and King Yog Narendra Malla, eventually developing into a month-long theatrical celebration.
Although the festival once featured 27 nights of performances, its duration gradually decreased. Today, preservation efforts seek to restore its historical richness.
Kartik Naach combines classical dance, traditional music, religious storytelling and folk theatre. Its performances portray different incarnations of Lord Vishnu, episodes from Krishna Leela and stories featuring the humorous Bathah characters.
Among its most significant episodes is Narasimha Avatar, depicting Lord Vishnu's half-human, half-lion incarnation defeating the demon king Hiranyakashipu to protect his devotee Prahlad.
Elaborate masks, colourful costumes and expressive movements bring these ancient narratives to life, reflecting the artistic traditions of the Kathmandu Valley.
The 2083 BS programme includes Madhavanal, Bathah Pyakhan, Jalashayan, Varaha Avatar and Narasimha Avatar.
Narasimha Avatar is scheduled for November 22, followed by Vastraharan Lila on November 23. The festival concludes with Dadhi Lila on November 24.
Beyond religious performances, Kartik Naach represents centuries of artistic knowledge passed through generations of Newar families.
The Kartik Naach Preservation Committee continues working to safeguard this tradition and revive performances that have disappeared from its historical programme.
As Kartik Dabali welcomes performers and spectators each evening, Kartik Naach remains a powerful reminder of Patan's enduring cultural identity.
