"Celebrating Janai Purnima, Raksha Bandhan, and Kwati Punhi: Nepal’s Sacred Traditions"

 

Nepal is a country rich in culture and traditions, where many festivals are celebrated with deep meaning. Among these, Janai Purnima, Raksha Bandhan, and Kwati Punhi are very important to the people.

Janai Purnima: On Janai Purnima, Hindu men, especially from the Brahmin and Chhetri communities, change a sacred thread known as the "Janai." This thread is worn across their bodies throughout the year and is renewed on this full moon day. The Janai is made of six threads, with three representing the gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwar, and the other three symbolizing knowledge, worship, and karma.

Men take a ritual bath and visit temples, where priests perform prayers and help them wear a new Janai. Many pilgrims also travel to Gosainkunda, a sacred lake in the Langtang region, where they believe Lord Shiva rests after saving the world from poison. Taking a holy dip in this lake is thought to cleanse sins.

Raksha Bandhan: Raksha Bandhan, which means “a bond of protection,” is celebrated on the same day as Janai Purnima. On this day, sisters tie a Rakhi, a sacred thread, on their brothers' wrists to protect them from harm. In return, brothers give gifts and promise to protect their sisters. This tradition strengthens the bond between siblings, even if they are not related by blood.

The ceremony involves sisters placing a tika (a mark) on their brothers' foreheads, garlanding them, and then tying the Rakhi. The day is filled with love and the sharing of blessings.

Kwati Punhi: The Newar community celebrates this day as Kwati Punhi or Gunhi Punhi. Instead of a Janai, they tie a thread called "Dora" around their wrists. The next day, this thread is tied to a cow’s tail, which is believed to guide souls to heaven after death.

A special dish called "Kwati" is made on this day. Kwati is a hearty soup prepared from a mixture of beans and sprouts. This dish is only made on Kwati Punhi, which is why the festival is named after it. It is believed to give strength and warmth to those who eat it.

These festivals highlight Nepal’s cultural richness and religious devotion. Visiting Nepal during August or September allows you to experience these unique traditions and learn about the beliefs that make them so special.