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Rishi Panchami 2024 date - Importance - Puja - Rituals

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Rishi Panchami is observed on the fifth day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) in the Bhadra month (August – September). Rishi Panchami 2024 date is September 8. On the day, tributes are paid to the Saptarishis – the seven sages – Kashyapa, Atri, Bharadhwaja, Vishwamitra, Gauthama, Jamadagni and Vashishta.


Rishi Panchami is of great importance to the Hindu community in Nepal and in the hill districts of North India. In Nepal, it is the third and final day of Teej festival. Rishi Panchami is also the final day fasting for those who observe three-day Hartalika Teej fasting.
In Nepal, women observe a strict fast on the Rishi Panchami day. The fasting is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is also undertaken by men in some regions. The fast is broken after the Rishi Panchami Pooja. 
Women have a special bath on the day using Datiwan herb. Special Kalash is prepared on the day and prayed to. Women in large numbers visit Lord Shiva temples.
Sama Pancham is also observed on the day in Gujarat.

Rishi Panchami is also observed as Vishwakarma Puja in Kerala.

This day is especially observed by women in several regions of India and Nepal, as it is believed to purify them from any unintentional sins committed during their menstrual cycles.

Significance of Rishi Panchami

Rishi Panchami is observed to pay tribute and offer reverence to the Saptarishis for their immense contribution to the spiritual and cultural foundation of Hinduism. The sages are credited with preserving ancient knowledge and guiding human civilization through the study of the Vedas and spiritual practices.

For women, especially in traditional Hindu societies, the day holds particular importance as a time for cleansing and atonement. In the past, there were numerous restrictions imposed on women during their menstrual cycle, and the observance of Rishi Panchami was a way to seek forgiveness for any unintentional lapses in conduct during this time.

How is Rishi Panchami Observed?

The observance of Rishi Panchami varies by region, but it is generally characterized by fasting, prayers, rituals, and specific pujas. Here’s how it is typically observed in India and Nepal:

  1. Fasting (Vrat): Many devotees, especially women, observe a strict fast (vrat) on this day. Some people refrain from eating cereals and salt, consuming only fruits and milk.

  2. Ritual Bathing: On this day, devotees purify themselves by taking a ritual bath in sacred rivers, lakes, or at home with special herbs. This is believed to cleanse the body and soul of impurities.

  3. Worship of the Saptarishis: Devotees set up a special altar and place seven symbolic representations of the Saptarishis. Offerings such as rice, fruits, flowers, and incense are made to these sages. The worship is accompanied by reciting specific mantras dedicated to the Saptarishis, and offerings are made in the form of food, flowers, and prayers.

  4. Rituals for Women: Women, in particular, perform rituals on Rishi Panchami to seek atonement for any transgressions committed during menstruation. They purify themselves by applying herbal pastes and take part in special prayers seeking forgiveness from the Saptarishis.

  5. Special Puja: A special puja is conducted, invoking the blessings of the Saptarishis for spiritual purification, health, and prosperity. The idols or images of the seven sages are worshipped using sandalwood paste, flowers, and traditional offerings.

Regional Observances

  • In Maharashtra and Gujarat, women observe strict fasts and offer prayers to the Saptarishis with devotion.
  • In Nepal, Rishi Panchami is observed with similar practices, where women perform purification rituals and worship the sages at home or in temples.
  • In North India, especially in regions like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, women perform rituals and fast, seeking protection and blessings for the well-being of their families.

Rare and Lesser-known Facts about Rishi Panchami

  1. Saptarishi Constellation: The seven sages are also associated with the stars of the Big Dipper constellation, which is a part of the Ursa Major (Great Bear) constellation. In Hindu mythology, these stars represent the eternal guardians of knowledge.

  2. Link to Fertility and Agriculture: In some agricultural communities, Rishi Panchami is celebrated to express gratitude to the Saptarishis for their blessings during the farming season, and to seek their guidance for bountiful crops.

  3. Karmic Cleansing: It is believed that observing Rishi Panchami washes away not just sins from this life but also those from past lives, leading to spiritual liberation.

  4. Scientific Connection: The association of the observance with menstrual cycles may also have roots in ancient knowledge of hygiene and health. Rishi Panchami emphasizes the importance of cleanliness, linking it with spiritual purity.

Modern-Day Relevance

While the rigid restrictions around menstruation have eased in many societies today, Rishi Panchami continues to hold relevance as a day of self-purification, reflection, and reverence. It is seen as an opportunity to connect with one's spiritual roots and pay homage to ancient knowledge that continues to shape modern Hindu thought.

  • Women’s Empowerment: In modern times, the ritual also raises awareness about women’s health and hygiene issues and is sometimes used as an occasion to challenge the social stigma associated with menstruation.

  • Environmental Significance: In some regions, there is an emphasis on eco-friendly practices during the observance, with offerings being made using natural, biodegradable materials.

Pujas and Worship

On this day, the following rituals are generally observed:

  1. Saptarishi Puja: An elaborate puja is done to honor the seven sages. Devotees place symbolic images or statues of the sages on an altar and offer incense, flowers, and grains. Mantras dedicated to the sages are chanted.

  2. Tulsi Puja: The worship of the sacred Tulsi plant is also common on this day. It is believed that offering prayers to Tulsi on Rishi Panchami brings prosperity and well-being to the household.

  3. Reading of the Vrat Katha: The story of Rishi Panchami, known as Rishi Panchami Vrat Katha, is read or recited by women as part of their observance. This story explains the importance of the day and how women can seek forgiveness for any mistakes made during their menstrual cycles.

  4. Offering to Brahmins: In some places, Brahmins are fed as part of the ritual, as they are considered the descendants of the sages. It is a form of expressing gratitude and gaining blessings.

  5. Recitation of Mantras: The mantras associated with the Saptarishis, such as the Rishi Stuti, are recited as part of the worship to invoke their blessings.

Rishi Panchami is an occasion for self-purification, devotion, and reverence for the ancient sages who are believed to have guided humanity through their spiritual wisdom. Though the rituals and customs associated with this day may have evolved over time, the core values of respect for knowledge, tradition, and purity continue to hold great significance for Hindus in both India and Nepal.

Its relevance in modern times has expanded to include broader social conversations around women’s health, menstrual hygiene, and challenging long-standing taboos while still holding on to the spiritual essence of the day.