KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 25

The Bibaha Panchami festival is being celebrated across Nepal today, commemorating the union of Princess Sita and Lord Ram in the Vedic era. The festival holds particular significance in Janakpurdham, believed to be Sita's birthplace and capital of ancient Mithila.

The six-day celebration begins with Nagar Darshan, a town visit ritual featuring two children dressed as Ram and his brother Laxman parading around the ancient Janaki Temple. The second day, Phulbari Leela, features dance performances and colourful processions, followed by Dhanusha Yagya on the third day and Tilakotsav on the fourth. The fifth day, Matkor, precedes the final day, Ram Sita Swoyambar, marking the engagement ceremony.

The festival concludes with the departure of saints and religious leaders from nearby Indian cities including Ayodhya who visit Janakpurdham to witness the re-enactment of the Ram Sita Swoyambar ceremony.

People from various religious faiths including Buddhism and Sikhism observe the celebration alongside Hindu religious leaders and devotees who participate in large numbers. The festival is observed on the fifth day of Marga Shukla Paksha in the Nepali month of Mangsir according to the lunar calendar.