The festival of ‘Janai Purnima’ is being observed across the country today. The festival is basically observed by Hindus in the country. This day is also celebrated as “Raksha Bandhan’ by Hindus and as ‘Kwanti Purnima’ by the newar community. On the occasion of Janai Purnima, the tagadharis or those who wear the ‘Janai’ (the sacred thread) around their bodies from the left shoulder change the sacred thread today after having a haircut and a bath.

Hindus receive the ‘Raksha Bandhan’ thread, which is tied around the wrist as an amulet. The yellow thread is purified through the chanting of mantras by Brahmin priests as a symbol of protection from fear and disease, said Prof Dr Ram Chandra Gautam, chairperson of Nepal Panchanga Nirnayak Samiti.

The occasion is also observed as ‘Kwanti Purnima’ by the Newar community. Kwanti, a soup prepared from nine different beans, is a special delicacy added to the Nepali menu today.

In the Terai region, there is a tradition in which sisters tie an attractive ‘Rakhi’ around the wrist of their brothers wishing them long life and prosperity.