KATHMANDU, Aug 28: Janai Purnima, also called the 'Rishi Tarpani' festival, is being celebrated across the country today. The festival is basically observed by the majority of Hindus in the country.
On the occasion of Janai Purnima, the tagadharis, or those who wear the 'Janai' (the sacred thread) around their bodies from the left shoulder to the right, change the sacred thread today after having a haircut and a bath.
According to tradition, Hindu people receive the 'Raksha Bandhan' thread, which is tied around the wrist as an amulet.
Janai Purnima, Nag Panchami Festival Today
The yellow thread is purified through the chanting of mantras by Brahmin priests as a symbol of protection from fear and disease, it is believed.
The occasion is also observed as 'Kwati Purnima' by the Newar community. Kwati, a soup prepared from nine different beans, is a special delicacy added to the Nepali menu.
In the Tarai region, there is a tradition in which sisters tie an attractive 'Rakhi' around the wrist of their brothers, wishing them long life and prosperity.
Today, devotees worship lord Shiva at Pashupatinath in Kathmandu and at Kumbheshwar in Lalitpur and other Shiva temples across the country, and take holy dips in ponds, lakes and rivers.
Religious fairs are also held at Gosainkunda, an alpine area in Rasuwa District, and at Triveni in Jumla District to observe the festival with offerings to Lord Shiva. A massive religious fair takes place at the Gosainkunda Lake, and pilgrims come from far away to take a holy dip in this lake and other lakes nearby.
The government has announced a public holiday today.
