Janai Purnima: A Cultural Celebration in Nepal
Published On : 26th Aug, 2019 By Adventure
Janai Purnima / Rakshya Bandhan Festival in Nepal
Nepal celebrates Janai Purnima, also known as Rakshya Bandhan, on 15th August 2019. This major Hindu festival falls on the full moon day and is widely observed across the country.
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Janai refers to the sacred thread worn by Hindu men around their shoulder.
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Purnima means full moon.
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The festival is also known as the day of holy protection, where Hindu men perform rituals, take a holy bath, renew their Janai, and receive blessings from Brahmins.
Shiva temples across Nepal witness large crowds of devotees performing rituals and prayers.
Significance for Shamans
Janai Purnima is also an important day for Shamans in Nepal.
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Shamans undertake pilgrimage trips to sacred sites such as Gosainkunda in Langtang, Kumbheshwor Temple in Patan, and Charikot in Dolakha.
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Thousands of Shamans and devotees gather at these sites to perform rituals.
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International Shamans also participate in these ceremonies, making it a global spiritual gathering.
The festival holds deep religious and spiritual significance in the shamanic traditions of Nepal.
Special Feast of Kwati in Kathmandu
In the Kathmandu Valley, Janai Purnima is celebrated as Gunhi Punhi in Newari culture.
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People prepare a nutritious soup called Kwati, made from a mixture of sprouted beans and lentils.
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Families invite relatives and friends for feasts and celebrations, enjoying togetherness.
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Alongside Kwati, a variety of traditional foods are prepared to mark the festive day.
This culinary tradition adds a unique cultural dimension to the festival.
Cultural Immersion Experience for Tourists
Visiting Nepal during Janai Purnima offers travelers a rich cultural immersion experience:
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Observe rituals and ceremonies in temples and sacred sites.
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Trek to Gosainkunda in Langtang during the festival for a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual and trekking experience.
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Explore Kathmandu and Patan to witness vibrant Newari cultural practices.
The festival allows tourists to learn about Nepalese culture, traditions, and lifestyle in a meaningful way.
Happy Janai Purnima and Rakshya Bandhan from Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks and Expedition!
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