Gaan Pyakhan is a centuries-old sacred masked dance of Patan, performed during the festive season in Mulchowk inside Patan Durbar Square, Kartik Dabali, and Nakabail Tol. The term comes from Nepal Bhasa, where Gaan means “group” and Pyakhan means “dance.” The performance begins on the night of Ghatsthapana and concludes on Ekadashi.
According to legend, the Malla kings were advised to include Newar deities in ritual performances so they would not be offended. Thus, Gaan Pyakhan features thirteen deities—the eight mother goddesses (Asta Matrikas) and five Newar patron deities including Bhairav and Ganesh. The dancers, drawn from the Bajracharya and Shakya priestly castes, undergo strict rituals of purity, fasting, and meditation before donning costumes and masks that symbolize each deity.
The dramatic sequences of the Asta Matrikas are believed to remove eight great fears—such as fire, water, lions and ghosts—ensuring prosperity and protection for the community.
Passed down through generations, Gaan Pyakhan remains a living tradition, preserving Patan’s spiritual and cultural identity.
Program Schedule:
Night time: Sept. 22 to Oct 1, Start from 8:00 PM – Nakabahil to Patan Durbar Square
Day time: Sept. 29 Start from 3:00 PM @ Mulchwock, Patan Durbar Square
Day time: Oct. 2 Start from 3:00 PM @ Mulchwock, Patan Durbar Square