Rishi Panchami 2024: Date, Time, Rituals and Significance

Rishi Panchami, will be observed on Sunday, September 8, in 2024. It is a significant day in the Hindu calendar, dedicated to the honour of the Sapta Rishis, or seven great sages. It is observed on the fifth day (Panchami Tithi) of the Shukla Paksha in the Bhadrapada month. This day typically follows Ganesh Chaturthi by one day and Hartalika Teej by two days.

Rishi Panchami 2024 Date and Time
Rishi Panchami Date: September 8, 2024
Panchami Tithi Begins: 05:37 PM on September 7, 2024
Panchami Tithi Ends: 07:58 PM on September 8, 2024
Rishi Panchami Puja Muhurat: 11:04 AM to 01:34 PM
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Significance of Rishi Panchami
Rishi Panchami is a day primarily observed by women to seek purification from Rajaswala Dosha, a belief associated with impurity during the menstrual cycle. In Hinduism, there are strict guidelines regarding purity, and women are traditionally considered impure during their menstrual period. They are advised to refrain from entering the kitchen, participating in religious activities, and touching family members during this time. Neglecting these guidelines is believed to lead to Rajaswala Dosha, which can be cleansed by observing the fast on Rishi Panchami.

The day holds particular significance among Nepali Hindus and is seen as a means to honour the Sapta Rishis. These sages are revered for their contributions to eliminating evil and promoting the betterment of humankind. The observance of Rishi Panchami is believed to cleanse the soul, body, and mind, and free devotees from past and present sins.

Rituals Observed on Rishi Panchami
The rituals of Rishi Panchami are performed with pure intentions and devotion, which are crucial for the purification of the body and soul.

• Early Morning Rituals: Devotees wake up early and take a holy bath.
• Rishi Panchami Fast: A strict fast is observed to sanctify the individual completely.
• Purification Practices: Devotees cleanse their teeth with a herb known as upmarga and bathe using the datwarn herb. A mixture of butter, basil, milk, and curd is consumed for soul purification.
• Worship of the Sapta Rishis: Devotees offer prayers and sacred items like flowers and food to invoke the presence of the seven great sages: Vashishtha, Jamadagmi, Gauthama, Vishvamitra, Bharadvaja, Atri, and Kashyapa.