KATHMANDU: The annual Janai Purnima, also known as the Raksha Bandhan festival, being observed across the nation today. On the occasion, especially Hindu Brahmins and Chhetris who have undergone the ritual of Bratabandha change their Janai (white cotton string worn diagonally from the left shoulder to the right waist) and also tie the Raksha Bandhan around the wrist of the right hand. People believe that the use of the sacred thread will bring them good luck. It is also believed that the Raksha Bandhan should be removed only on the day of Laxmi Puja during Tihar. Janai Purnima is also popularly known as Raksha Bandhan. On this day, sisters also tie Rakhis, a wrist band as  a symbol of protection, on their brothers’ hands, with a belief that it will bring security to their brothers. People celebrate the festival eating kwati (soup cooked from germinated pulses) and other special food items.