Janai Purnima, also known as Raksha Bandhan or Sacred Thread Festival, is a significant religious and cultural festival celebrated in Nepal. Here are some additional details about Janai Purnima:
Date and Timing: Janai Purnima falls on the full moon day of the month of Shrawan (July/August) according to the lunar calendar. It marks the end of the month-long monsoon season in Nepal and is considered an auspicious time for religious rituals and ceremonies.
Ritual of Changing Janai: Janai Purnima is primarily known for the ritual of changing the sacred thread, known as "Janai," which is worn by Hindu men, particularly those from the Brahmin and Chhetri castes. On this day, men gather in temples or their homes to receive a new Janai from priests or senior family members. They remove the old thread and replace it with a fresh one while reciting sacred mantras.
Symbolism and Significance: The Janai represents purity and protection. It is believed to be a symbol of a person's connection to their spiritual lineage and their commitment to leading a virtuous life. By changing the Janai, individuals renew their vows and recommit themselves to upholding moral values, righteousness, and spiritual growth.
Sacred Thread Ceremony: Alongside the changing of Janai, there is a traditional ceremony called "Bratabandha" that takes place for young boys from the Brahmin and Chhetri communities. During this ceremony, boys receive the Janai for the first time, signifying their transition to adulthood. They also undergo a series of rituals and ceremonies guided by priests and elders.
Pilgrimages and Holy Dips: Janai Purnima is also a day of pilgrimage and holy dips in rivers, especially at sacred sites like Gosainkunda, a high-altitude lake in the Langtang region of Nepal. Devotees believe that taking a dip in the holy rivers on this day cleanses them of sins and brings spiritual purity.
Rakhi Tradition: In addition to the Janai rituals, Janai Purnima is also observed as Raksha Bandhan in Nepal, following a similar tradition to that celebrated in other parts of the Indian subcontinent. Sisters tie colorful threads, known as "rakhis," around the wrists of their brothers as a symbol of protection and love. Brothers, in turn, offer gifts or money as a gesture of care and blessings.
Festive Celebrations: Janai Purnima is a festive occasion marked by various cultural activities, religious rituals, and community gatherings. People dress in traditional attire, visit temples, and participate in feasts and cultural performances. The festival creates a sense of unity and reinforces family bonds as people come together to celebrate and share blessings.
Janai Purnima is a festival that encompasses spiritual, cultural, and familial dimensions in Nepal. It serves as a reminder of the importance of moral values, spiritual connections, and the strengthening of family ties. The festival brings joy, blessings, and a sense of renewal as individuals and communities come together to celebrate their shared traditions and beliefs.