Janai Purnima is one of the most sacred and important festivals of Hindu religion. The festival is celebrated for the bond of pureness and security. Janai means holy thread and Purnima is the full moon. On this day, Hindu Nepalese men of Brahmin and Chhetri group perform their annual ritual of changing Janai (the sacred thread).
People in the Terai region as well as some other parts of the country mark it as Rakshabandhan (protection-bond) with pom and show. Especially, the sisters tie a sacred thread called Rakhi on the wrists of their brothers praying for their longevity, sound health and happiness; brothers promise for their protection and care in return with blessings. They also give them gift items on the occasion.
People also throng to the temples to have their wrists tied with sacred threads by priests.
Photo: Dipendra Kanu at Gahawamai Temple of Birgunj
