Rishi Panchami is a deeply revered Hindu festival observed on the fifth day of the month of Bhadrapada, according to the lunar calendar. This sacred day follows the festivities of Ganesh Chaturthi and honors the Saptarishi, the seven great sages: Kashyapa, Atri, Bharadvaja, Vishvamitra, Gautama Maharishi, Jamadagni, and Vasishtha. These sages, symbols of spiritual wisdom and guidance, hold an esteemed place in the devotion of Nepali Hindus, who observe this festival with deep reverence.
For many, Rishi Panchami is a day of spiritual cleansing, especially for women, who traditionally fast and perform rituals to seek the blessings of the sages. It is a time to purify the body and soul, to ask for forgiveness for past mistakes, and to renew one’s spiritual path. The day embodies the values of humility, simplicity, and purity, which are integral to Nepali culture.
Across both rural and urban areas, women partake in fasting, believing that the blessings of the sages will bring them health, prosperity, and spiritual clarity. Though the fast is traditionally observed by women, men may also join, fasting for the well-being of their wives, showcasing mutual respect and devotion between spouses.
In Nepali homes, families perform puja (worship) in honor of the seven sages and Arundhati, the wife of Sage Vasishtha. The offerings of betel leaves, flowers, camphor, and oil lamps create a sacred atmosphere, where the flickering glow of the diyo (traditional oil lamp) symbolizes spiritual enlightenment. Many women also bathe in sacred rivers, a ritual believed to cleanse their sins and offer renewal.
Fasting on Rishi Panchami involves abstaining from grains and salt, instead partaking in fruits and simple meals, allowing for spiritual and physical purification. The act of fasting is seen as an offering of devotion, a humble submission to the divine wisdom of the sages.
Rishi Panchami is a celebration of purity, devotion, and wisdom. As the sacred lamps flicker in homes and the fragrance of flowers and camphor fills the air, the festival serves as a reminder of the timeless bond between nature, humanity, and the divine. It is a day to seek clarity, honor the sages, and renew one’s spiritual journey ensuring that their wisdom continues to guide the spiritual fabric of Nepal.
picture credit: street Nepal
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