Nepal, a country brimming with cultural diversity and ancient traditions, is a land of festivals and celebrations that seem to grace its people nearly every day. Among the many vibrant occasions, one stands out for its spiritual significance and profound devotion: Shrawan Sankranti. Rooted in the Hindu faith, this month-long celebration honors Lord Shiva, the Supreme Hindu Deity, and takes devotees on a journey of prayer, fasting, and self-discovery.
As the Sun enters the zodiac sign of Shrawan, the Nepali calendar marks the beginning of the fourth month of the year 2079 as "Shrawan Sankranti" on January 1, 2079. The legend behind this auspicious month dates back to the divine tale of Sati Devi, the first wife of Lord Shiva. The story recounts her tragic demise during a Yagna (fire sacrifice ritual) organized by her father, Dakshya, who harbored animosity towards Shiva. Heartbroken by the disrespect and loss of his beloved Sati, Shiva withdrew into a state of meditation and austerity, forsaking worldly affairs.
In a twist of fate, Sati was reborn as Parvati, the daughter of King Himavat, the personification of the Himalayas, and Queen Mainavati. With an unwavering determination to win Shiva's heart, Parvati followed a path of prayer, fasting, and meditation, mirroring Shiva's own practices. Her devotion finally stirred Shiva from his deep meditation, and he embraced her love. The month of Shrawan commemorates Parvati's pursuit of Shiva, inspiring unmarried girls to follow a similar path in search of a righteous and loving life partner.
Central to Shrawan Sankranti are various rituals and activities that devotees undertake to appease Lord Shiva. The faithful flock to Shiva Temples, with the revered Pashupatinath Temple being a significant destination for worship. They offer their prayers and reverence to the sacred lingam, or statue, of Lord Shiva. Observing a fast on Mondays, known as Shrawan Sombar Vart, is considered highly auspicious. During this time, people often wear Rudraksha beads, chant hymns, and recite the Mahamritunjav Mantra to seek blessings and protection from the divine.
A customary offering called Pancha Amrit, comprising milk, curd, butter or ghee, honey, and jaggery, is presented to Lord Shiva as a symbol of devotion and purity. The month is an opportune time for young girls to express their reverence for Lord Shiva in hopes of finding a virtuous husband akin to Him.
Shrawan Sankranti encompasses social gatherings and joyous exchanges among people. It is common for devotees to take various vows, such as adhering to a vegetarian diet or reading specific Holy Scriptures, during this sacred period. Although dedicated to Lord Shiva, other deities, including Goddess Gauri on Tuesdays, Goddess Baraha Laxmi on Fridays, and Lord Vishnu on Saturdays, are also worshipped to avert misfortune and ill omens.
The festive attire during Shrawan Sankranti reflects the vibrant spirit of the celebration. Women dress in red, adorning their wrists with green or yellow Chura (colorful bangles). Married women wear the Pote, a necklace made of stringed green glass beads, symbolizing prosperity and happiness.
An integral part of the festivities is the application of Mehendi (Henna) on the palms and hands, believed to bring good luck. The intensity of the Mehendi's color is thought to signify the extent of the blessings received. However, the highlight of Shrawan Sankranti is the "Bol Bam" pilgrimage, where devotees from various parts of Nepal embark on a spiritual journey to the revered Pashupatinath Temple. Cloaked in holy yellow "Om Namah Shivay" shawls, barefoot pilgrims traverse long distances, seeking divine blessings from Lord Shiva.
Shrawan Sankranti is not merely a festival; it is a testament to the boundless faith and devotion of the Nepalese people. As the celestial journey of the Sun marks the beginning of this sacred month, it serves as a beacon of hope and a celebration of eternal love between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. With hearts full of devotion, the people of Nepal embrace this divine odyssey, resonating with the divine union that traverses time and space.
photo credit: Legal Hub Nepal , Ask Me About Nepal, Bhakti Photos, Rudraksha Ratna
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