The vibrant echoes of Mithila’s cultural heritage resonated through the streets as the Bibahapanchami festivities commenced, marking the beginning of the Bibaha Mahotsav in Janakpur. This cultural extravaganza, deeply rooted in tradition, kicked off with a mesmerizing marriage procession from Matihani in Mahottari to Janakpur via Jaleshwar.

An age-old tradition unfolded as holy men and women embarked on a pilgrimage from Ayodhya to Janakpur during the Ramjanaki marriage festival. Joining the spiritual journey were saints from various corners of India, converging to partake in the grand celebration.

The meticulously planned itinerary dictated the route, with Matihani hosting the first night, followed by Jaleshwar on the second night, Sahodwa in Mahottari on the third night, culminating in the grand finale at Janakpur on the fourth day. Baidyanath Chowdhury, a venerable 65-year-old resident of Banauli village in Pipra rural municipality, emphasized the longstanding tradition of warmly welcoming the guests with acts of kindness at the designated lunch and dinner stops.

However, voices from the pilgrimage route expressed concern over the diminishing allure of the fair festival, citing a decline in the number of participating saints and pilgrims. Despite this, the charm of the Bibaha Mahotsav remains an integral part of the cultural fabric, beckoning locals and visitors alike to partake in its historical significance.

The week-long Ramjanaki festival, celebrated throughout Janakpurdham, commemorates the union of Shriram, the son of Ayodhya’s King Dasharath, and Sita, the daughter of King Janak of Mithila. The focal point of the celebration is the Swayambar ceremony held in Janakpurdham, where the traditions of Maithil culture come to life.

Professor Manoj Jha, an esteemed scholar of Maithili Language and Literature at Yajnavalkya Lakshminarayan Vidyapith in Matihani, revealed that participants would be treated to the customary rituals of a Maithil marriage ceremony, enriching the cultural experience.

Kameshwar Jha, a Maithil culture and traditions expert, urged the new generation of Maithil youth to assume the mantle of preserving the glory of this ancient festival. As the Bibaha Mahotsav unfolds, it not only showcases the richness of Mithila’s cultural heritage but also beckons the community to ensure its enduring legacy in the hands of future generations.

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