Kathmandu, August 29

Janai Purnima, which is also called Rakshya Bandhan, was observed across the country with Hindus taking a holy dip and wearing sacred thread.

On the occasion, especially Hindu Brahmins and Chhetris who have undergone Bratabandha (a rite of initiation) change the sacred thread janai (a white cotton string worn across the chest) and also tie the sacred thread around the wrist.

People believe that the use of the sacred thread will bring them good luck. It is also believed that this thread should be removed only on the day of Laxmi Puja that falls during Dipawali.

Big fairs were held at Kumbheshwor in Lalitpur and Gosaikunda in Rasuwa district to celebrate the sacred thread festival.

Thousands of Hindu devotees thronged the riverbanks to take holy bath and changed their janai and got the sacred thread tied by a priest around the wrist on the premises of temples in Kathmandu Valley.

Priests also visit the residences of their yajman (hosts) and bless them with the sacred thread. In return, the priest is given money as per one’s capacity.

On this day, sisters offer the rakhi (a symbol of protection) to their brothers. There is a belief that Rakshya Bandan will bring security to their brothers.