Exhibition of Karunamaya Jatra

Exhibition Year: 2025

Medium: Pen & Ink on Paper, 20’’ by 5 ‘’, 2025

Patan Museum in support with Museum of Nepali Art (MoNA) exhibited the masterpieces of Karunamaya by artist Sushila Singh on the second floor, Inner Courtyard of the Patan Museum itself. These masterpieces were drawn by the live by artist during the Rato Machhindranath chariot building in 2022.

The architecture of the chariot in which the image of Karunamaya is paraded around town is quite extraordinary. It is the epitome of divinity and stability. The chariot is created in such a way that it is steadfast, despite the heavy shaking and movement it needs to withstand. There is a belief that the chariot also possesses 32 divine characteristics. It is constructed by adding 365 pieces of wood for 15 days. People from various Newar communities come together to build the chariot.

Just as the chariot is formed with many elements, we are also shaped by different elements of our cultures and traditions. They are our representation and we are a representation of them.

In this modern time, the significance of these jatras has been blurred, and they have now become a mere source of entertainment. The younger generation must realize the rarity of these vibrant festivals and give continuity to them. Singh created 17 different artworks, each signifying the process of creating the chariot of Karunamaya.

PS the masterpiece artworks Sushila Singh were first exhibited and have been collected by Museum of Nepali Arts (MONA).