Kathmandu: The festival of 'Janai Purnima,' also known as 'Rishi Tarpani,' is being celebrated across Nepal today. This festival, primarily observed by Hindus, holds significant religious and cultural importance.

On Janai Purnima, those who wear the 'Janai' (sacred thread) around their bodies, from the left shoulder to the right, change the thread after taking a bath and having a haircut. Additionally, people receive the 'Raksha Bandhan' thread, which is tied around the wrist as a protective amulet. This yellow thread is blessed by Brahmin priests through the chanting of mantras, symbolizing protection from fear and disease.

The Newar community also celebrates this day as 'Kwati Purnima,' where a special dish called Kwati, a soup made from nine different beans, is enjoyed.

In the Terai region, sisters tie 'Rakhis' around their brothers' wrists, wishing them long life and prosperity.

Thousands of devotees visit Shiva temples such as Pashupatinath in Kathmandu and Kumbheshwar in Lalitpur to worship Lord Shiva and take holy dips in rivers, ponds, and lakes. Major religious fairs are held at Gosainkunda in Rasuwa District, Triveni in Jumla District, and other sacred sites across the country. Pilgrims from distant places come to take a holy dip in Gosainkunda Lake and nearby lakes.

The government has declared a public holiday today in honor of the festival.