Rishi Panchami is observed on the fifth day after the new moon in the Bhadrapada month (August – September). In 2016, Rishi Panchami is on September 6. Rishi Panchami is of great significance in
Nepal and in the hill districts in . In India , it is the third and final day of Teej, which begins with Hartalika Teej. It is also the day to show respect to the Sapta Rishis – the seven sages. The day is also observed as Rushi Panchami. Nepal
, women observe a strict fast on the Rishi Panchami day. The fasting is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is also undertaken by men in some regions. The fast is broken in some places after the Rishi Panchami Pooja. Women have a special bath on the day using Datiwan herb. Special Kalash is prepared on the day and prayed to. Women in large numbers visit Lord Shiva temples. Nepal
, on the Rishi Panchami day homage is paid to the Sapta Rishis – the seven sages – Kashyapa, Atri, Bharadhvaja, Vishvamitra, Gauthama, Jamadagni and Vashishta. India
Rishi Panchami is also observed as Vishwakarma Puja in Kerala. In other parts of the country, Vishwakarma puja is on September 17.
In some regions in
North India, women observe the Hartalika Teej Vrat (fasting) for three days. For them, Rishi Panchami is the final day of fasting.