Nepalis celebrate Shrawane Sankranti as sun enters Cancer today

Kathmandu – The festival of Shrawane (Karkat) Sankranti, celebrated annually on Shrawan 1 according to the solar calendar, is being observed across the country today with rituals of bathing and donation.

Today marks the first day the sun enters the zodiac sign of Cancer after completing its transit through Gemini, celebrated as Shrawane Sankranti according to ancient traditions.

As the sun begins its southward journey from Shrawan, Dakshinayan also starts today. The periods of Uttarayan, beginning on Magh 1, and Dakshinayan, starting on Shrawan 1, hold special significance in the Vedic Sanatan tradition.

Most Nepalis are engaged in agriculture, particularly busy with farming throughout the month of Ashadh. During this time, a tradition of warding off skin diseases caused by mud and dirt, known as “luto falne”, is observed, explains Professor Dr. Devmani Bhattarai.

Traditionally, medicinal plants such as crow’s foot, dog rose, luto jhar, water amla, lemon, guava, and custard apple are used in rituals to worship the demon Kandarak, followed by the throwing of firebrands.

During the luto falne ritual, it is customary in Nepali society to beat a nanglo, blow a conch, ring bells, and close doors according to one’s family traditions. The month of Shrawan is also regarded as a time for special worship and adoration of Lord Shiva.

Women traditionally wear green bangles and clothes to signify their closeness to nature. As Shrawan is considered the month of Lord Shiva, temples like Pashupatinath and other Shiva shrines across the country see throngs of devotees.