Kathmandu: The festivals of Raksha Bandhan and Janai Purnima (Rishi Tarpani) are being observed nationwide today, marking the full moon day of Shravan. Devotees of the Vedic Sanatan tradition visit rivers, lakes, and ponds early in the morning for ritual bathing, followed by the tying of the Raksha Sutra by their Guru Purohit. It is believed that wearing the sacred thread, recited with Vedic mantras, protects devotees from negative forces. The practice is rooted in the mythological account of Guru Brihaspati preparing a Raksha Vidhan to protect the gods from demons, a tradition still observed today.

Yajnopavit Renewal for Tagadharis
According to scriptures, Tagadharis from the Brahmin, Kshatriya, and Vaishya communities renew their Janai (Yajnopavit) on this day. Preparations begin from Shravan Shukla Chaturdashi, with devotees shaving their heads, fasting, and maintaining purity. On the full moon morning, they perform Shravani Snan, cleanse themselves with cow dung, ash, dattiun, and saptamritika, and offer tarpan to sages before donning a new sacred thread. This day is also known as Rishi Tarpani, honoring eight revered sages through worship and offerings. Major pilgrimage sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Ashok Vinayak, and Gosainkunda witness large gatherings for these rituals.

Kwanti Tradition for Health and Well-being
Janai Purnima is also associated with eating Kwanti, a soup made from eleven sprouted beans. Considered both religiously significant and medicinal, Kwanti is believed to cleanse the digestive system, ward off seasonal ailments, and generate internal warmth during the monsoon. Ayurvedic experts highlight its role in boosting immunity and relieving cold-related illnesses.

Rakhi Celebration 
In Nepal’s Terai region, sisters tie Rakhi to their brothers on this day, symbolizing love and protection. This tradition, long prevalent in the plains, is now gradually spreading to the hilly regions. It strengthens family bonds and fosters a sense of unity.

Pilgrimage and Fairs Across the Country
From early morning, fairs and gatherings take place at sacred water bodies across Nepal, including Manichud in Kathmandu, Gosainkunda in Rasuwa, Kumbheshwor in Lalitpur, Panchpokhari in Sindhupalchowk, Janakpurdham’s Dhanushasagar and Gangasagar, Dansadhu in Jumla, and Trivenidham in Nawalparasi, drawing thousands of pilgrims.