A Celestial Celebration (महोत्सव)
Vivah Panchami marks the day Lord Ram (Prince of Ayodhya) married Mata Sita (Princess of Mithila). Celebrated on the fifth day of the Shukla Paksha in Agrahayana month (November-December), it is not just a mythological date but a living cultural event. In Janakpur (Nepal), the capital of ancient Mithila, the city transforms into a massive wedding venue.
The Week-Long Wedding (सप्ताह व्यापी अनुष्ठान)
The Baraat from Ayodhya
Every year, a massive wedding procession (Baraat) travels all the way from Ayodhya, India to Janakpur, Nepal. Thousands of saints, sadhus, and devotees participate, bringing gifts (Tilak) for the bride's family. They are welcomed by the people of Janakpur with the same warmth one would offer to a son-in-law's family.
Janaki Mandir Preparation
The magnificent Janaki Mandir is decorated with thousands of lights and flowers. The 'Rangbhoomi' maidan, where the Dhanush Yajna (breaking of the bow) is believed to have happened, becomes the stage for the dramatic reenactment of the Swayamvar ceremony.
Matkor & Swayamvar
Just like a real Mithila wedding, rituals like 'Matkor' (digging earth) and 'Haldi' are performed for the idols of Ram and Sita. On the main day, the 'Swayamvar' is enacted where the idol of Ram garlands Sita, followed by a grand wedding ceremony according to Vedic rites.
Cultural Significance
Vivah Panchami symbolizes the eternal bond between India and Nepal, often referred to as 'Roti-Beti ka Rishta' (relationship of bread and bride). It reinforces the shared cultural heritage of the Mithila region that spans across borders. For Maithils, Sita is not just a goddess but a daughter ('Dhiya'), and her wedding is a personal family affair for every household.
The 'Gaali' Tradition
A unique and fun aspect of Mithila weddings, present in Vivah Panchami too, is the singing of 'Gaari' or 'Gaali' songs. These are playful, teasing songs sung by the women of the bride's side to mock the groom's friends and family. Even Lord Ram, during the festivities, is affectionately teased by the women of Mithila through these songs!