KATHMANDU, May 6: The nation celebrates the birth anniversary of National Luminary Sita today, which falls on the ninth day of the bright fortnight of the month of Baisakh in the lunar calendar. Devotees across the country offer prayers and perform religious rituals with reverence in Sita's honor.
According to the Ramayana and other Vedic scriptures, Sita emerged from the earth when King Janak of Mithila plowed a field during a sacred yajna in the Treta Yuga. Religious scholar Prof. Dr Ram Chandra Gautam said that scriptures portray Sita as the incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi, who took birth to marry Lord Rama-the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu and son of King Dasharatha of Ayodhya.
People revere Sita as a symbol of truth, devotion, and ideal womanhood. She married Prince Ram of Ayodhya and accompanied him into exile to obey his father's command. Even after Ravana abducted her, Sita upheld her virtue and unwavering devotion, as the scriptures recount.
Moti Jayanti being observed today
Dr Gautam explained that Sita chose to leave the palace and live in exile while pregnant to shield King Ram from public criticism, even after he returned victorious from defeating Ravana. Her sacrifice and commitment to dharma continue to exemplify the ideal of womanhood.
Throughout her exile, Sita remained devoted to Ram in thought, word, and deed. She raised their twin sons, Luv and Kush, in Sage Valmiki's ashram and later sent them to Ayodhya as well-educated and capable youths. Dr. Gautam said her life continues to serve as an example of dignity and honor for all women.
When Luv and Kush reached Ayodhya and recited the Ramayana-including Sita's innocence and unjust exile-public sentiment compelled Ram to call her to the palace. Although many welcomed her, some questioned her purity. In response, Sita called upon Mother Earth to receive her if she remained pure-and, as the Vedic texts narrate, she disappeared into the earth. Although the public later expressed remorse and asked for forgiveness, Sita did not return-having come from the earth, she returned to it.
People across the country observe this day with special rituals at Ram-Janaki temples. In Janakpur, devotees gather for a grand celebration and fair at the Ram-Janaki Temple. Recognizing her cultural, religious, and historical contributions, the Government of Nepal has honored Sita as a national luminary.
To mark the occasion, the Shri Ramchandra Temple in Battisputali will host special worship, devotional music, and sermons, according to Temple Management Committee Chairperson Dr. Govinda Tandon. Organizers have also planned a similar event at the Ram-Janaki Temple in Bhūmisthali, Gokarneshwor Municipality-2.
