After Celebrating Naag Panchami Festivals. Next festive is ready for Nepalese and it is called Janai Purnima. Janai Purnima, also known as Raksha Bandhan or Sacred Thread Festival, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated in Nepal. It falls on the full moon day in the month of Shrawan (July/August) according to the lunar calendar. Janai refers to a sacred thread worn by Hindu men, while Purnima signifies the full moon day.
During Janai Purnima, Hindu men, especially from the Brahmin and Chhetri communities, gather at rivers, ponds, or other sacred water bodies to perform a ritual known as "Bratabandha" or "Upanayana." This ceremony involves the renewal of the sacred thread, which is made of cotton and worn diagonally from the left shoulder to the right waist. The sacred thread symbolizes purity, protection, and connection to the divine.
The ritual is conducted by a priest who chants mantras and blesses the participants. The old thread is removed, and a new one is tied around the wrist of the participant. It is believed that the new thread provides spiritual protection and helps maintain purity and morality in their lives. The thread is worn by men after the ceremony and is not to be removed until the following year's Janai Purnima.
In addition to the thread ceremony, Janai Purnima also holds significance for other communities in Nepal. On this day, people from all walks of life visit Hindu temples and holy sites to offer prayers and seek blessings. Devotees take ritual baths in sacred rivers like Bagmati, which flows through Kathmandu, or visit lakes like Gosaikunda in the Himalayas.
Janai Purnima is also associated with the festival of Raksha Bandhan, celebrated by Hindus all over the Indian subcontinent. During this time, sisters tie a protective thread called "rakhi" around the wrists of their brothers, signifying the bond of love and protection. In return, brothers give gifts or money to their sisters and promise to protect and support them throughout their lives.
Apart from the religious and traditional significance, Janai Purnima also offers an opportunity for family gatherings, feasts, and celebrations. It is a time when people come together to strengthen their bonds, exchange greetings, and enjoy the festive spirit. Also, Here is more details on Janai Purnima below. Some points are highlighted for you.
Kshyama Purnima: In addition to the thread ceremony, Janai Purnima also marks the festival of Kshyama Purnima. On this day, devotees observe a fast and visit holy sites to take a ritual bath in the sacred rivers. It is believed that by taking a dip in the holy waters, one can cleanse themselves of sins and attain spiritual purification.
Shravan Dwadashi: The day following Janai Purnima is known as Shravan Dwadashi. It holds special significance for the Newar community in Nepal. On this day, Newar boys who have reached a certain age participate in a ceremony called "Bara Khane Dinu" or "Wheat Eating Ceremony." They are served a special dish called "bara," which is made from lentils and spices. It is considered a rite of passage and marks the beginning of their journey towards adulthood.
Religious Observances: Temples and holy sites across Nepal are adorned with decorations during Janai Purnima. Devotees visit temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and other deities to offer prayers and seek blessings. The Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, one of the holiest Hindu shrines, witnesses a large influx of devotees during this time.
Importance for Brahmins: Janai Purnima holds particular significance for the Brahmin community in Nepal. Brahmins are the priestly caste, and the thread ceremony is an important ritual for them. It is believed that wearing the sacred thread grants them access to spiritual knowledge and protects them from evil influences.
Festive Celebrations: Janai Purnima is celebrated with enthusiasm and joy throughout Nepal. Families come together to exchange greetings, share meals, and enjoy cultural performances. Traditional music, dance, and folk songs are performed during the festivities. People dress in their traditional attire, and the atmosphere is filled with merriment.
Symbolism of the Sacred Thread: The sacred thread worn during Janai Purnima is called "Janai" or "Janeu." It is made of cotton and consists of three strands, symbolizing the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The thread represents a connection between the wearer and the divine, reminding them of their duties, responsibilities, and moral values.
In conclusion, Janai Purnima is a festival in Nepal that holds great religious and cultural importance. It is a day for Hindu men to renew their sacred threads and for people to seek blessings and engage in family celebrations. The festival reinforces the values of purity, protection, and love within the community.
