Janai Purnima Celebrated at Kumbheshwar Temple in Patan

Nepal is celebrating Janai Purnima today, a significant festival also known as Raksha Bandhan. The occasion is marked by a special fair held annually at the historic Kumbheshwar Temple in Patan.

The temple premises are bustling with devotees who have gathered to partake in the festivities. Many are seen lining up to offer prayers at the temple, while others are engaging in the ritual of tying sacred threads, a key practice of Raksha Bandhan, symbolizing protection.

A steady stream of people are also present to change their sacred threads, known as 'janai,' which holds religious importance for many Hindus. Devotees are also observed bathing in the temple's pond and utilizing its water spouts, adding to the spiritual atmosphere of the day.

Adding to the festive mood, some young people are enjoying themselves by diving and swimming in the temple's pond. Security personnel have been deployed to ensure the safety of the attendees and to manage the queues effectively.

According to local religious beliefs, the Kumbheshwar Temple's pond is associated with a legend involving Lord Ram. It is believed that Lord Ram shot an arrow that brought water from Gosainkunda to the temple's pond. This belief draws devotees from various parts of the country to bathe in the pond on the day of Janai Purnima.