Women from Tharu, Maithil, Madhesi and Bhojpuri communities are celebrating the Jitiya, also known as Jiutia, festival across Nepal's Tarai-Madhesh region and the Mithila area. Festivities are being observed in Sunsari district, including its headquarters, Inaruwa.
Mothers observe the festival with devotion, undertaking strict fasts and praying for their children's long life, good health, prosperity and protection.
Fasting at the heart of Jitiya
According to Ramdayal Rakesh, the rigorous penance mothers perform for the longevity of their children is the defining feature of Jitiya.
The festival falls during the season of Dashain, Tihar and Chhath.
