The month-long Swasthani Brata Katha concludes today on Magh Shukla Purnima. Devotees of Vedic Sanatan Hinduism, who began this sacred observance on Poush Shukla Purnima, will perform the concluding rituals today.
For the past month, devotees across the country have worshipped Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati daily at midday, following the Swasthani Brata. The recitation of the Swasthani Katha, which is a conversation between Kumar and Agastya from the Kedar Khand magh mahatma of the Skanda Purana, also concludes today.
As part of the concluding rituals, devotees present 108 sacred threads, betel nuts, betel leaves, various roots, rotis, grains of rice, and an assortment of fruits as offerings to Goddess Swasthani. These sacred items are accompanied by incense, lamps, sandalwood, vermillion, clothes, and other devotional gifts, symbolizing deep reverence and a plea for divine blessings. The distributed offerings are traditionally given to eight husbands; however, in their absence, they are shared with sons, godsons, or ritually immersed in a sacred river, signifying spiritual completion and fulfillment of prayers.
On this auspicious day, devotees undertake a strict fast, consuming exactly 100 pieces of roti and staying awake all night (jagram), immersing themselves in devotional songs and recitations that honor Goddess Swasthani. It is widely believed that sincere observance of this fast brings spiritual merit and fulfills one’s heartfelt wishes.
The name “Swasthani,” meaning “goddess of one’s place,” reflects the belief that the deity resides within the soul, guiding devotees on their spiritual path. This sacred period, following Uttarayan the sun’s northward transition is considered highly favorable for meditation, prayer, and deep spiritual practices.
The name “Swasthani” translates to “goddess of one’s place,” symbolizing the deity that resides within an individual’s soul. The period following Uttarayan, when the sun begins its northward journey, is seen as an ideal time for spiritual practice and meditation. During this auspicious time, devotees engage in worship and rituals to deepen their connection with the divine.
Goddess Swasthani is depicted with a golden complexion and three eyes, seated on a throne made of lotus and lion. She holds four objects in her hands: a blue lotus, a sword, a shield, and a gesture of blessing.
Worshiping and fasting during this period is believed to lead to the reunion of love, the healing of ailments, and the fulfillment of marital desires. Her divine presence is thought to bring spiritual and physical benefits to those who faithfully observe the practices associated with her worship.
According to the Swasthani Katha, Goddess Parvati performed this brata to attain Lord Shiva as her husband. The story also narrates how separated Nag and Nagini (serpent deities) were reunited and how Goma Brahmani’s son, Navaraj, became the king of Lavanya Desh (modern-day Sankhu) after observing the brata.
Historian Prakash Shrestha ‘Sakwa’, known for his research on Sankhu’s historical, religious, archaeological, cultural, and touristic importance, highlights the significance of the brata of magh. He explains that the brata, a form of religious observance, is believed to have miraculous effects, drawing attention to its deep cultural roots.
Shrestha emphasizes that the brata of magh holds a special place in the local traditions, with its spiritual and healing powers being a central part of the community’s beliefs. This practice not only enriches the cultural heritage of Sankhu but also attracts visitors interested in its religious and historical value.
After the final midday prayers and night vigil, the Swasthani Brata Katha will conclude on Thursday morning with the immersion of sacred flowers and leaves in the river, as stated by Prof. Dr. Devmani Bhattarai, head of the Dharmashastra Department at Nepal Sanskrit University Valmiki Vidyapeeth and a member of the Nepal Panchang Decision Committee.
Similarly, the Madhav Narayan Brata, which began on Poush Shukla Purnima at Shalinadi in the eastern part of the Kathmandu Valley, will also conclude today with an Ashwamedha Yagya. Around 200 men and women have observed this rigorous one-month-long Madhav Narayan fast. The Newar community celebrates this day as “Si Punhi.”
