Jitiya festival concludes

By Ajay Shah

Gaushala (Mahottari), Oct. 5:  The arduous Jitiya festival, observed by women across Mithila region, for the longevity of their children, happiness, peace and family wellbeing, concluded on Sunday following religious and cultural rituals.

Observed on the Ashtami (eighth day) of the waning fortnight of the Nepali month Ashwin, the festival involves women observing a strict fast without food or water and worshipping Lord Jimutvahan, along with an eagle and a jackal.

Jitiya is regarded in the Mithila region as one of the most sacred and arduous fasts. Observed over three days through various rituals, the festival began on Friday night when women ate ‘Ongtan’ before starting their fast.

 Women observed a waterless fast throughout Saturday and concluded it on Sunday after bathing and performing rituals. Traditionally, the fast is broken on the final day after consuming fruits or a meal according to prescribed rituals.

During the fast, women listen to the story of Lord Jimutvahan. According to local tradition, elder women narrate the story while younger women listen.