Day after Raksha Bandhan — Vedic scholars perform Gayatri Japam, reciting the Gayatri Mantra 1008 times.

Gayatri Japam falls on the day after Upakarma and completes it. Having changed the sacred thread and offered tarpanam to the rishis, the observer now repeats the Gayatri mantra — traditionally 1008 times, though 108 is accepted where circumstances do not allow more. The purpose is expiatory and restorative: to make good the japa left undone through the year and to re-establish the daily discipline of sandhyavandana. The Gayatri is the mantra of the Rigveda addressed to Savitr, the illuminating aspect of the sun, and it asks not for wealth or protection but for the awakening of understanding. The day is kept quietly, usually at home or in a small group, and requires nothing but a mala, a seat and attention.

A light fast is kept until the japa is complete. Where 1008 repetitions are not possible, 108 is accepted, but the intention to resume daily practice matters more than the count.