Vivah Panchami in Janakpur-2080: A Grand Celebration of Divine Union

Nestled in the heart of Janakpur, Nepal, Vivah Panchami stands as a testament to the divine union of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. This week-long celebration, marked by intricate rituals and fervent devotion, not only commemorates an ancient love story but also showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Origin and Cultural Values: Vivah Panchami traces its roots to the sacred pages of the Valmiki Ramayana, where the marriage of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita symbolizes love, virtue, and the triumph of righteousness. The festival holds immense cultural significance, reflecting the enduring values of duty, honor, and the timeless essence of the Ramayana.

Event Details:

Day 1: Janakpurdham Nagar Darshan (जनकपुरधाम नगर दर्शन) 

Date: 12/12/2023 A.D, 2080/8/26 B.S

 Time: 4:00 pm Nepali Time 

Location: Janak Mandir

The festival kicks off with "Nagar Parikrama," a city tour. The priest of Janaki Temple embodies King Janak, and the Ram Mandir priest portrays King Dasarath. As the idols of Lord Rama and Lakshmana are paraded through the city, locals decorate Janakpur, singing ancient Mithila songs to welcome their arrival.

Day Day 2: Fulbari Lila (फुलबारी लिला) 

Date: 13/12/2023 A.D, 2080/8/27 B.S

Time: 4:00 pm Nepali Time

Location: Shree Ram Janaki Vivah Mandap

The enchanting "Fulbari Lila" reenacts the first meeting of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. Though historically in Bihar, Fulhar, in Janakpur, this unfolds at Ram Janaki Vivah Mandap. Legend has it that Sita stole a glimpse of Rama for the first time during this divine encounter.

Day 3: Dhanush Yagna (धनुष यज्ञ) 

Date: 14/12/2023 A.D, 2080/8/28 B.S 

Time: 5:00 pm Nepali Time 

Location: Janaki Mandir

The "Dhanus Yagna" on the third day recreates the challenge issued by King Janaka. Kings from around the world attempt to lift and string the Shiva Dhanus. Lord Rama, the only one successful, proves his supremacy in the Rangbhumi of Janakpur.

Day 4: Tilakutsav (तिल्कोत्सव)

Date: 15/12/2023 A.D, 2080/8/29 B.S 

Time: 1:00 pm Nepali Time

Location: Janaki Mandir to Ram Mandir"Tilakutsav" 

on the fourth day is a joyous celebration where priests of Janaki Temple send 101 guests to Ram Mandir. Local women sing ancient songs, and the priests embrace in a gesture known as Samdhi Bheet.

Day 5: Matkor (मटकोर) 

Date: 16/12/2023 A.D, 2080/8/30 B.S 

Time: 2:00 pm Nepali Time 

Location: Janaki Mandir to Gangasagar (Pond)

 The fifth day, "Matkor," involves local women and guests from Ayodhya digging mud from Gangasagar while singing cultural songs. This mud is then used in the creation of the sacred "Bedi."

Day 6: Wedding Ceremony (स्वयम्बर आ शुभ विवाह) 

Date: 17/12/2023 A.D, 2080/9/01 B.S 

Time: 1:00 pm Nepali Time 

Location : (Rangbhumi Ground) and 6:00 pm Nepali Time (Janaki Mandir)

The grand "Wedding Ceremony" unfolds on the penultimate day at Rangbhumi Ground. Vedic rituals mark the occasion, and the night is filled with celebrations as the palanquin journey moves from Rangbhumi Ground to Janaki Mandir.

Day 7: Ram Kaleva (रामकलेवा) 

Date: 18/12/2023 A.D, 2080/9/03 B.S

Time: 1:00 pm Nepali Time 

Location: Janaki Mandir

The final day, "Ram Kaleva," witnesses a multitude at Janaki Temple. Guests from Ayodhya are honored with respect, delicious foods, clothing, and gifts. Playful banter and satirical verses add a touch of amusement to the day.

Conclusion: Vivah Panchami in Janakpur is a captivating journey through time, where the divine union of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita is celebrated with unwavering devotion and cultural grandeur. The festival, rooted in ancient scriptures, continues to be a vibrant expression of love, righteousness, and the timeless values of the Ramayana.