The festive spirit of Vivah Panchami has taken hold of the Mithila region, ushering in a time-honored celebration commemorating the divine union of Hindu gods Ram and Sita. Lasting a week, this revered festival witnesses various cultural events and religious ceremonies spanning from Matihani in Mahottari to Janakpurdham in Dhanusha, marking the significance of Vivah Panchami.
According to Hindu scriptures, the sacred wedding between Lord Ram, the son of King Dasharath of Ayodhya, and Goddess Sita, the daughter of King Janak of Janakpurdham, occurred during the Treta epoch in Janakpurdham. Each year, the festivities reenact this divine union, with the groom’s procession arriving from Ayodhya to Janakpurdham, following age-old traditions and rituals.
The celebrations witness the arrival of numerous saints, holy men, ascetics, and hermits from the Mithila region and revered shrines in India, adding to the fervor of the occasion. The festive procession, including horse-drawn chariots, singing troupes, and adorned elephants, makes its journey to Janakpurdham, passing through Matihani.
Preceding the Vivah Panchami, a special worship is conducted at the Laxmi Narayan temple in Matihani, where the soil required for the wedding ritual is excavated from the Laxmi Sagar, enhancing the sanctity of the ceremony.
This year, Vivah Panchami falls on December 17, with devotees from Ayodhya already arriving two days before the festivities. The groom’s procession, upon arriving in Matihani, receives a warm welcome from the locals, marked by garlands, flower petals, and vermilion.
Rabindra Das Baishnav, the head priest of Laxmi Narayan Temple, mentioned the inclusion of the ‘Matkor’ ritual as part of the overnight stay and celebration in Matihani, an integral aspect of the grand festivities.
The celebrations of Vivah Panchami not only resonate with spiritual significance but also reflect the rich cultural heritage and traditions cherished in the heart of Mithila, uniting devotees from both Nepal and India on this joyous occasion.
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