Rushi Pancham in Gujarat

Rushi Pancham is a unique ritual observed by farmers and women in Gujarat on the fifth day of the waxing phase of moon in Bhadrapad month (August - September). Rushi Pancham 2016 date is September 6. As per Hindu tradition, women are not supposed to perform any religious ritual or visit temples during menstrual period. If a woman happens to break the rule, then she can perform the Rushi Pancham ritual and absolve the sin.



Farmers perform the ritual for sins committed during the previous year. Farmers who had injured any animal or committed any other sin perform this ritual.

It must be noted that Rushi Pancham ritual has lost its value in the modern world and many people do not follow it. But majority of devout Hindu women still avoid performing religious duties during the menstrual period.

The day is popularly observed as Rishi Panchami day.