Janakpurdham: A Pious Place to Visit

If you ask people who believe in the principles of Hinduism, which place you would like to visit, they would certainly speak out Janakpurdham, aka Janakpur, with pride. It lets people feel peace in mind and they believe that they are blessed being on the land where, according to Hindu mythology, an ideal character and symbol of faithfulness, virtuousness, and chasteness for every Hindu woman – Goddess Sita, the daughter of King Janak of Mithila Kingdom – was born. Janakpurdham, a beautiful religious place, attracts Hindu people from all over the world.

Janaki Temple (aka Nau Lakha Mandir)

Janakpurdham is located in the middle of southern Nepal. According to the new constitutional structure, it is situated in the Dhanusha district of Madhes Province. The total area of this district is 1,180 square kilometres (460 sq miles). It is connected with the international boundary of northern India. Women of Janakpurdham or of whole Mithila are excellent in cultural art or painting which is popularly known as Mithila Painting. They are also the best at cooking a variety of delicious food items. "Mithila bhojan" (Mithila dish), politeness in manners, cooperative nature of people, descent dressing; some festivals like Dashain (Dashahara), Diwali, Chhaith (Chhaithi Puja), Holi, Jhijhiya dance, Sama Chakewa; and cultural and folk songs are the specialities of this place and found in the whole Mithila region.

Sama Chakewa

Janakpurdham has great importance in Hindu culture and mythology. It is known by different names, viz. Bideh, Mithila, etc. At different times in the past, it had different names. Each name Hindu people utter with pride and reverence. They venerate not only this place but also its names. Their presence in this holy and sacred place lets them feel that the meaning of their life on earth is complete and that they have achieved everything. This place is rich in art, culture, literature, tradition, and rituals. Its people have been civilized, cultured, and educated since the past. Great scholars were born here. Of them, King Janak himself was the one. There used to be an assembly of scholars from different places and kingdoms in the palace of King Janak. Inhabitants and citizens of this kingdom – Mithila – were thought kind and generous. It is perhaps their king himself was one of the kindest, humblest and most generous people. Janakpurdham, according to Hindu mythology, is also known as the birthplace of Goddess Sita who is worshipped by Hindus. Every follower and devotee of Hinduism has deep honour and reverence for Her since She is a character full of worshipful admiration. The grandeur of this place in Hindu mythology and reverence for Her have spread the light of simplicity and generosity, and have made the people religious, cultured, emotional, and sympathetic to mankind. 

Holi Celebration

Janakpurdham has religiously, culturally, socially, and emotionally tied two neighbouring countries – Nepal and India. It had been the capital city of the then-Mithila Kingdom. In ancient times, Mithila Kingdom had a very large area. At present, the area of this kingdom has been divided between two international boundaries – Nepal and India. Some of its parts are in Nepal, and some are in India today because of which these two countries have a very strong bond of religious, cultural, social, and emotional relationships. One of the examples of it is “marriage” which has been in practice between these countries since ancient times. The reason for this traditional and cultural practice is the marriage ceremony of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. Lord Rama was the prince and eldest son of King Dasharath of Ayodhya, the kingdom which is at present in India. The holy name of Lord Rama is uttered with deep respect in the heart since He is regarded as the best of all men. This has brought these two countries religiously, emotionally, and culturally closer. The sense of fraternity and brotherhood is always felt and grows amongst the people in the pious land of these countries. 

Janakpurdham is one of the religious and pious places that exist especially in Nepal and India. These sacred and holy places are known as “Dham”. Every Hindu devotee’s wish is to visit these pious places at least once in their lives. They feel blessed when they become successful in visiting them. Of these, Janakpurdham is one of the most famous ones since it is believed that this is the place where Goddess Sita was born from the furrow made with the plough while King Janak was ploughing in the field to save the life of the inhabitants of his kingdom from drought. Janakpurdham has, thus, become a dream of Hindu followers and devotees. Thousands of pilgrims from different parts of Nepal, India, and even from the world come to touch the soil of this pious land. They also feel blessed and happy once they come. They come here to observe beautiful temples and to have a bath in ponds that have their own religious value.

Ganga Sagar Pond, Janakpurdham

Janakpurdham is famous for temples and especially for ponds. It must be the reason why it is known as “the city of ponds”. Dozens of ponds like Dhanush Sagar, Ganga Sagar, Ratna Sagar, Dasharath Talaw, and so on are here. Each has its religious value. Of them, Ganga Sagar is the one whose values and respect are similar to the Ganga. Pilgrims who visit take a ritual bath in Ganga Sagar to purify their bodies and souls, and then they take holy water from this pond in a small metal water pot and pluck some flowers from the garden (if possible) or buy them and sweets which are sold at the entrance of each temple. Thereafter, they head to temples to offer flowers and sweets on the feet of idols of Gods and Goddesses to worship them and sprinkle the holy water carried in the metal water pot around them. At last, they bow their heads and ask for their wishes to be fulfilled. They feel peace in mind when they come out after finishing worship. They perform worship in different temples. These temples are Janaki Temple, Rama Temple, Rajdevi Temple, Hanuman Temple, Dulha-Dulhin Temple, and so forth. Janaki Temple is the one in which the pilgrims observe Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, also venerated as Mother – therefore, Sita Mata, and His brothers and Her sisters as brides and grooms. Janakpurdham is known for Janaki Temple, the largest temple in Nepal. Pilgrims in thousands very frequently come to observe especially this temple. This temple is also remembered as one of the best examples of perfect and beautiful art, architecture, and engineering. It was built by the Queen, Briksha Vanu of Tikamgadh, in 1910 AD. The total expenditure of its construction was nine lakhs; therefore, it is popularly known as Nau Lakha Mandir. It looks beautiful. Its beauty alone and the sacredness of this place are enough to attract devotees, pilgrims, and domestic as well as international tourists here. 

Chhaith Celebration at Ganga Sagar, Janakpurdham

For devotees and pilgrims who come in thousands, there is a good facility of hotels, lodges, food, public houses, etc. Devotees and pilgrims should not worry about whether they can afford these facilities. These, of course, suit their budget since they have many options here. They can select that which comes to their budget. These range from cheaper to expensive. They can book their rooms in three-star hotels, VIP hotels, and public houses: they can go for an advance booking of their rooms. They should not be doubtful regarding food as most of them are vegetarians. There are many hotels where they can have delicious vegetarian food items along with good service. There are many public houses in which they can stay nights paying fewer amounts than a hundred rupees per night. Overall, they will be happy thinking that they did not get any sort of money. 

Chhath Festival at Dhanush Sagar, Janakpurdham

One belief is that once people touch the pious soil of Janakpurdham, their souls become purified from any sin knowingly or unknowingly committed anywhere. If people are planning to go on a tour with their family, relatives, and friends, they should remember this place since it can be their best selection to enjoy and learn a lot.

You are always welcome to Janakpurdham!