As many as 46 people, including 37 children, have drowned while taking holy bath in rivers and ponds across Bihar during three-day long celebration of ‘jitiya’ or ‘jivitputrika’ festival.
About Jivitputrika, or Jitiya Vrat
- Jivitputrika, or Jitiya Vrat, is a Hindu festival observed primarily in the northern and eastern parts of India, including Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Nepal.
- It is celebrated by mothers who fast for the well-being, long life, and prosperity of their children.
- Women observe fast for the well being of their children on the occasion.
- The festival spans three days, with the main ritual involving a strict nirjala fast, meaning no water is consumed during the fast.
- The three-day festival begins with ‘nahay khay’ and devotees take a holy dip in rivers and ponds on the occasion.
- The festival is rooted in Hindu mythology, particularly the story of King Jimutavahana, whose sacrifice for the welfare of others is commemorated during this time.
