In Brief:

• Janai Purnima, also known as Rishi Tarpani, observed nationwide
• Devotees change sacred Janai threads after ritual bath
• Raksha Bandhan thread tied by Brahmin priests as protection
• Newar community celebrates Kwati Purnima with nine-bean soup
• Tarai tradition of Rakhi: sisters tie bands on brothers' wrists
• Major gatherings at Pashupatinath, Kumbheshwar, Gosainkunda, Triveni

KATHMANDU, AUGUST 28 Nepal is observing Janai Purnima today, with traditions ranging from changing sacred threads and tying protective bands to sharing Kwati soup and celebrating Rakhi. Also known as Rishi Tarpani, the festival is primarily observed by Hindus across the country. Those who wear the sacred Janai thread traditionally change it after shaving their hair and bathing, symbolizing renewal and purity. Devotees also receive a yellow Raksha Bandhan thread, tied around the wrist after purification by Brahmin priests. The thread is regarded as a symbol of protection from fear and disease. For the Newar community, the occasion is celebrated as Kwati Purnima, with Kwati - a soup prepared from nine varieties of beans - forming a traditional part of the festival meal. In the Tarai region, the festival carries another popular tradition, with sisters tying colorful Rakhi around their brothers' wrists, wishing them long life and prosperity. Devotees are visiting Pashupatinath in Kathmandu, Kumbheshwar in Lalitpur and other Shiva temples nationwide, while many are taking holy dips in ponds, lakes and rivers. Religious fairs are being held at Gosainkunda in Rasuwa and Triveni in Jumla, where devotees offer prayers to Lord Shiva. Gosainkunda sees a major gathering of pilgrims from across Nepal, who take a holy dip in the alpine lake and nearby water bodies. The government has declared a public holiday on the occasion of Janai Purnima.