Janai purnima

Janai Purnima

Janai Purnima, also known as Rakshya Bandhan, is a major Hindu festival celebrated in Nepal and parts of India. It falls on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Shrawan month (July–August), according to the lunar calendar.

---

Meaning and Significance

"Janai" refers to the sacred thread worn by Hindu men, especially of the Brahmin, Chhetri, and other Tagadhari (sacred-thread wearing) communities.

"Purnima" means full moon day.

The festival symbolizes purification, protection, and renewal of commitment to religious duties.

---

Major Rituals and Celebrations

🧵 Changing of Janai

On this day, male members of Tagadhari communities take a ritual bath early in the morning and change their old Janai with a new one after performing sacred rituals.

The ritual is conducted by family priests (Pandits) or in temples and riverbanks.

🛡️ Rakshya Bandhan Doro

A sacred yellow thread called Doro is tied around the wrist by priests while chanting mantras for protection.

This Doro is believed to ward off evil and is kept until Laxmi Puja during Tihar, when it is tied to the tail of a cow.

🍲 Traditional Food

A special dish called Kwati (a soup made of 9 types of sprouted beans) is eaten, especially by the Newar community.

Kwati is believed to help improve digestion and health during the monsoon season.

🕉️ Pilgrimage and Bathing

Devotees take holy dips in sacred rivers like Gosainkunda, Bagmati, and other places.

A grand fair is held at Gosainkunda, where thousands of pilgrims gather.

---

Cultural Importance

Promotes family bonding, spiritual cleanliness, and religious discipline.

In the Terai region, the festival is also celebrated as Raksha Bandhan, where sisters tie rakhi (decorated thread) on their brothers' wrists for protection and blessings.

---

Conclusion

Janai Purnima is not just a festival of rituals but also a cultural bridge between generations and communities. It emphasizes purity, protection, and renewal of duties, blending spiritual devotion with social harmony.