Janakpur: The week-long Bibaha Panchami festival has officially commenced in the historic city of Janakpur, marking the beginning of a series of religious rituals and celebrations. The festival celebrates the divine union of Princess Sita and Lord Ram, an event that holds significant cultural and religious importance in the region.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the Bibaha Panchami is observed on the fifth day of Shukla Paksha, during the Nepali month of Mangshir, as per the lunar calendar. This year, the main festivities will peak on December 6. The festival began with the Nagar Darshan ritual, where children dressed as Ram and his brother Laxman paraded around the Janaki Temple, a highlight of the day’s events as explained by Ramroshan Das Baisnav, the assistant priest of the temple.
The second day of the festival, known as Phulbari Leela, will feature vibrant dance performances and processions, adding to the festive atmosphere. Following this, the Dhanusha Yagya will take place on the third day
, succeeded by the Tilakotsav on the fourth day. The festival will continue with Matkor on the fifth day and culminate in the Ram Sita Swoyambar, symbolizing the engagement of the divine couple.
Visitors, including saints and religious leaders from nearby Indian cities such as Ayodhya, will be in attendance to witness the re-enactment of the Ram Sita Swoyambar. The festival brings together people from various religious backgrounds, including Buddhism, Sikhism, and Christianity, who join Hindu devotees in the celebrations.
Janakpur, believed to be the birthplace of Sita and the ancient capital of Mithila, becomes a center of devotion and homage to Ram and Sita during the festival. In a recent all-party meeting, Janaki Temple’s Mahantha Ramatapeshwor Das Baisnav emphasized the need for collective efforts to ensure the festival is celebrated with grandeur, underscoring its cultural and religious significance.