The Kartik Nach, as an event, was first established by the devout King Siddhi Narsingh Malla in the 17th century, during the Malla Era which begins after establishing the Natyeswar from hills in Baghdwar, Shivapuri in Saugal of Lalitpur.
The Kartik Naach that among others attributes the characteristic of tantrik power has acquired the name since it falls in the month of Kartik (October-November). It is based on Narsimha’s exploits as described on Vishnu Puran, a most appropriate holy sourcebook, as it focuses on describing the various incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
Kartik Nach is one of the important tantric masked dances done in honour of Lord Kumar in the month of Kartik(October-November).The dance is performed as a thanks giving to Lord Kumar for his protection to the community. Various incidents of the life of Kartikeya (Kumar) are enacted in the Kartik dance. Kumar also known as Bhairava who is the patron deity of Newar of Patan and elsewhere. The gentler aspect of Kartikeya is Kumar while Bhairava is fear-inspiring and warlike.