Janai Purnima Festival: Devotees Gather at Bagmati River for Sacred Rituals

Hundreds of devotees assembled at the Bagmati River near Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu on Monday to observe Janai Purnima. The festival involves changing the sacred thread 'Janai' and tying 'Rakshyabandhan' on wrists. Brahmin priests guided the ceremonies, which are believed to offer protection and blessings.

Hundreds of devotees gathered on the banks of the Bagmati River near Kathmandu's Pashupatinath Temple on Monday to observe the Janai Purnima festival. The annual event, coinciding this year with Janaipurnima and Rishi Tarpani festivals, saw devotees changing the sacred thread 'Janai' and tying 'Rakshyabandhan' on their wrists.

Followers of Vedic Sanatan Dharma performed rituals under the guidance of Brahmin priests, who chanted, performed penance, and tied the Rakshasutra (sacred thread) on the devotees' right wrists as per Vedic traditions. The Janai and Rakshasutra are believed to protect wearers from negative influences, a sentiment echoed by devotee Janardan Dhakal.

'Janai Purnima' is observed nationwide, with tagadharis (those who wear the sacred thread) changing their 'Janai' after a bath and haircut. The sacred threads symbolize knowledge, meditation, and power, while the Raksha Bandhan thread is considered an amulet for protection and longevity. Celebrations included mass bathing and rituals at Pashupatinath Temple and fairs at religious sites.

(With inputs from agencies.)