In a bid to prevent skin diseases that may arise from the muddy conditions experienced during rice planting in the month of Ashadh, households across Nepal observed the traditional Shrawan Sankranti festival yesterday evening by performing the Luto Falne ritual.
Nepalis, following age-old customs, use various medicinal plants such as kaagbhalayo, kukurdaaino, lutejhaar, pani amala, lemon, guava, and pear, to worship the demon Kandarak. This ritual involves throwing burning sticks, known as Agulto Falne, which is carried out on the evening of Shrawan Sankranti.
Throughout the month of Ashadh, most Nepalis are busy with agricultural activities. According to religious scholars, the Luto Fali ritual is performed to prevent and cure skin diseases caused by the mud and dirt encountered during this period.
The ritual involves making noise by banging a nanglo (traditional winnowing tray), blowing a conch shell, ringing bells, and closing doors, following each family’s tradition. Yesterday, the Saune Sankranti festival was celebrated nationwide, marking the first day of the sun’s transition from Gemini to Cancer.
Starting from Shrawan Sankranti, the sun begins its southward journey, known as Dakshinayan, which starts yesterday and lasts until Magh 1. This period is marked by special observances, with farmers taking a break from their month-long hard work to gather with family and friends for celebrations.
The month of Shrawan is particularly significant for the worship of Lord Shiva. Women traditionally wear green bangles and clothes, symbolizing their closeness to nature, as noted by religious scholar Professor Dr. Devmani Bhattarai.
Throughout this month, Shiva temples across the country, especially the Pashupatinath Temple, see a significant influx of devotees. Saun is regarded as Shiva’s month, and Mondays are considered Shiva’s day, leading to large gatherings of worshippers at Shiva temples.
Yesterday, Pashupatinath Temple witnessed a throng of devotees from early morning. Additionally, the ritual of Kotihom and the recitation of Shiva Puran commenced in the Pashupati area yesterday.
