Preparation for Swasthani Bratakhata completes

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Jan. 3: Preparation for the month-long Shree Swasthani Bratakhata has been completed, according to the Shree Madhavnarayan Swasthani Fasting and Salinadi Management Committee. 

The month-long religious observance, marked by abstention from certain foods and the recitation of the Swasthani holy story, began on the full moon day of the Nepali month of Poush, starting Saturday.

Around 200 women and men have registered for the fasting process. The number of devotees is expected to rise in the coming days, as one can join the fasting up to four days after the full moon, said Jeeban Man Singh, Senior Vice-President of the committee.

The fasting and story recitation of Swasthani will begin on Saturday. All preparations have been made for the month-long devotion on the banks of the Sali River at Sankhu, about 20 kilometres northeast of Kathmandu, he added.

For the first time, a flower-showering programme from a helicopter will be held at Salinadi at Madhav Narayan temple premises on the first day of the fasting, he said.

The people of the ancient conch-shaped town of Sankhu observe the fast with rigorous fervour and traditional rituals.

He further said that the committee manages puja items, colours, repairs and maintenance, arrangements for the devotees’ journey, accommodation for volunteers, as well as firewood and hay for the devotees.

Expenses for devotees visiting Changu Narayan, Pashupati, Panauti, and Pharping have also been arranged, he added.

The Sali River holds special significance during this fasting. It is described in the Swasthani story as a sacred, healing, and wish-fulfilling site.

According to the story, Chandrawati, a leprosy victim, regained her health, social status, and good fortune after worshipping Goddess Swasthani and taking holy dips in the river. Devotees from far and wide come here for the sacred bath during the fasting month.

Men and women of all ages observe this fast, wishing for a prosperous life, enduring luck, and happiness.