Aagya Khabar
Bardibas
Followers of the Vedic Sanatan Dharma are celebrating the Janai Purnima, Rishi Tarpani, and Rakshabandhan festivals today across the country with religious fervor, as observed annually on the full moon day of the Shrawan month. From early morning, devotees have been taking ritual baths in rivers, ponds, lakes, and holy water sites before wearing sacred threads (Yagyopaveet) and protective cords (Rakhi) blessed by their gurus and priests, in line with ancient traditions.
According to the Nepal Panchang Determination Committee, the origin of Rakshabandhan is linked to a mythological story from the Satya Yuga, in which Guru Brihaspati tied a protective thread to the demon king Bali to safeguard him. Following this tradition, today priests recite the mantra “Yena baddho baliraja danavendro mahabala…” while tying the sacred thread on the right wrist of their patrons. On this day, members of the Brahmin, Kshatriya, and Vaishya communities who wear the sacred thread (tagadhari) also observe the ritual of changing it.
Tagadharis who have been observing a fast from Shrawan Shukla Chaturdashi bathe in the morning of the full moon day using cow dung, ash, dattiun (herbal teeth-cleaning stick), and saptamrittika (a mixture of seven types of clay) before performing the Rishi Tarpan ritual. As part of this tradition, eight sages, including Arundhati, are worshipped and offered libations, which is why the day is also known as “Rishi Tarpani.”
It is also customary to eat Kwati, a mixed soup of eleven varieties of beans, on this day. This is believed to strengthen the body, boost immunity, and protect against seasonal illnesses during the monsoon. In the Mithila region of Madhesh Province, sisters also tie Rakhi to their brothers today, symbolizing love, protection, and the strengthening of sibling bonds.
On this occasion, Bardibas Municipality Mayor Prahlad Kumar Kshetri extended greetings to the public. In a message conveyed through his personal secretary Binod Dhungel, Mayor Kshetri stated that according to popular belief, wearing the sacred thread and tying the protective cord with the blessings of gurus, priests, relatives, and friends helps ward off enemies. He described this festival, considered a protective shield, as a symbol of love, care, and protection between brothers and sisters. He also wished for peace, prosperity, and happiness for all Hindus and humanity at large, both within and outside the municipality.
The mayor further extended his best wishes on the occasion of Kwati Purnima, “Gode Nya” (Wisdom Day) celebrated by the Tamang community, and Rishi Tarpani, where offerings are made by descendants for the liberation of their ancestors’ souls. He expressed hopes for all departed ancestors to attain Baikuntha (heavenly abode).
