Janai Purnima Celebrations at Bagmati River in Nepal
Hundreds of devotees gathered at the Bagmati River beside Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu to celebrate Janai Purnima. This festival, observed annually on Shrawan Shukla Purnima, involves changing the ‘Janai’ (sacred thread) and tying ‘Rakshyabandhan’ on the wrists of devotees.
Significance of Janai and Rakshasutra
Adherents of Vedic Sanatan Dharma took dips in the river and tied the Rakshasutra (sacred thread) with guidance from their Guru. Brahmin priests performed chants and penance, tying the Rakshasutra on the right wrist of devotees. It is believed that wearing the Janai and Rakshasutra, with proper chants and blessings, protects devotees from negative influences.
Devotee’s Experience
Janardan Dhakal, a devotee, shared, “We used to take dips in the river, but now the river is not clean, so I took a bath at home and wore a new ‘Janai’. I also tied a Rakshyabandhan on my wrist.”
Traditions and Beliefs
Commonly called ‘Janai Purnima’ or ‘Rishi Tarpani’, those who wear the ‘Janai’ change the sacred thread after a haircut and bath. The Janai is believed to have emerged from the Yagya, a sacrificial rite, and symbolizes knowledge, meditation, and power. Those who don’t wear Janai receive the ‘Raksha Bandhan’ thread, tied around the wrist as an amulet for protection from fear and disease.
Religious Fairs and Celebrations
Religious fairs are held at Gosainkunda in Rasuwa District and Dansanghu, Triveni in Jumla District. The Bhagwat Sanyash Ashram Gurukul near the Ram Temple held a mass bathing ceremony and performed rituals. The Newar community observes the occasion as ‘Kwanti Purnima’, preparing a special soup from nine different beans. In the Tarai region, sisters tie ‘Rakhi’ around their brothers’ wrists, wishing them long lives and prosperity. Buddhists commemorate Lord Gautam Buddha’s victory over evil, with a special fair at Swayambhunath in Kathmandu.
Doubts Revealed
Janai Purnima -: Janai Purnima is a Hindu festival celebrated mainly in Nepal. It involves changing a sacred thread called ‘Janai’ and tying a protective thread called ‘Rakshyabandhan’ on the wrist.
Bagmati River -: The Bagmati River is a river in Nepal that flows through the Kathmandu Valley. It is considered sacred by Hindus and is an important site for religious rituals.
Pashupatinath Temple -: Pashupatinath Temple is a famous and sacred Hindu temple located in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts many pilgrims and tourists.
Kathmandu -: Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal. It is known for its rich history, culture, and many religious sites.
Janai -: Janai is a sacred thread worn by Hindu men, especially Brahmins. It symbolizes purity and is changed during the Janai Purnima festival.
Rakshyabandhan -: Rakshyabandhan is a protective thread tied on the wrist during Janai Purnima. It is believed to protect the wearer from evil and bring good luck.
Brahmin priests -: Brahmin priests are Hindu priests who belong to the Brahmin caste. They perform religious rituals and ceremonies.
Penance -: Penance is a religious practice where a person shows regret for their sins or wrongdoings. It often involves prayers, fasting, or other acts of devotion.
Rakshasutra -: Rakshasutra is another name for the protective thread tied on the wrist during Janai Purnima. It is meant to safeguard the wearer from harm.
Kwanti Purnima -: Kwanti Purnima is another name for Janai Purnima, celebrated by the Newar community in Nepal. It involves eating a special dish made of sprouted beans called ‘Kwanti’.
Newar community -: The Newar community is an ethnic group in Nepal known for their rich culture, traditions, and festivals. They mainly live in the Kathmandu Valley.
Religious fairs -: Religious fairs are gatherings where people come together to celebrate religious festivals. They often include rituals, prayers, and cultural activities.
