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Relationships are considered very sacred since the Vedic era in India.

They are a very important part of our life and form a fundamental basis for it.

Our lives are very much determined by the kind of relationship we have with people.

Relationships aren’t just some arrangement, they are existential realities that effect us at every stage of life.

A great deal of importance has been given to relationships in India.

One of the most sacred relationships is that of a brother and sister.

It is one of those few relationships where the bond rises beyond mere arrangements for mutual benefits.

The bond between a brother and sister is that of truth, sanctity, and unconditional love.

To celebrate the beauty and significance of this relationship, a whole festival is dedicated in India.

This festival is known as Raksha Bandhan, or simply Rakhi.

This is one of the widest celebrated festivals in India.

You will find almost everyone with wrist full of Rakhis on this day.

Let us look at this beautiful festival in a little more depth.

Significance of Rakhi: Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on the last Purnima of Hindu month Shravan, also known as Rakhi Purnima.

Raksha Bandhan literally means a bond of protection.

Sisters tie an amulet on the wrist of their brother’s hand known as Rakhi.

This amulet is to mark the sacred relationship of a brother and sister.

Sisters bestow their love on brothers and in return receive gifts and a promise for protection.

This festival has immense significance as far as Indian tradition and culture is concerned.

Traditionally, this festival meant much more for the villages that followed strict exogamy.

Such villages are still found in northern India.

Parents don’t visit the houses of their daughters who are generally married in other villages.

Daughters also don’t get chances to visit their paternal home.

They usually visit their paternal home a few days or weeks before Rakhi and stayed till that day.

Brothers generally stayed with their parents, and if not, they also visited their parent’s home on this occasion.

Brothers acted as a string between the daughter’s family and their family.

But in modern society, these things are almost obsolete, and now this festival is more symbolic than relevant.

Legends behind Rakhi festival:

As true with any other Hindu festival, the celebration of Raksha Bandhan also finds its origin in multiple accounts of ancient texts.

Some of which are: Krishna and Draupadi:

This is the most popular legend behind rakhi and is mentioned in the great ancient epic, Mahabharata.

Krishna accidentally hurt his finger with the Sudarshan Chakra.

As a result, it started bleeding.

Seeing this, Draupadi, the wife of Pandavas wasted no time and tore the corner of her Saari, and tied it to Krishna’s finger.

Touched by the love and purity of Draupadi’s affection, Krishna granted her the promise of protection.

Since that day, Rakhi is celebrated as a promise of protection by the brother to her sister.

Indra Dev and Sachi: This story is mentioned in Bhavishya Purana.

A great battle was going on between the Devas and Asuras.

Demon king Bali was giving a tough fight to Indra, who was leading the gods.

Seeing all the odds against them, Indra’s wife Sachi went to Lord Vishnu and asked him for help.

He gave her an amulet which she tied to her husband’s wrist.

After that, Indra defeated the demons and successfully recovered his kingdom.

In earlier times, women used to tie amulets to the hands of their husbands who went to war.

However, now the amulets are tied by sisters instead of wives.

There is one more popular story mentioned in Bhagavad Purana.

As per the story, lord Vishnu was asked by the demon King Bali to stay with him in the palace after He showed him his immense form.

However, goddess Lakshmi wanted to return to Vaikuntha.

So, She tied an amulet to king Bali and when asked for a gift in return, She asked Bali to release Vishnu from his palace.

There is one more popular story mentioned in Bhagavad Purana.

As per the story, lord Vishnu was asked by the demon King Bali to stay with him in the palace after He showed him his immense form.

However, goddess Lakshmi wanted to return to Vaikuntha.

So, She tied an amulet to king Bali and when asked for a gift in return, She asked Bali to release Vishnu from his palace.

Evolution of festival: Rakhi holds a very different meaning today than what it originally meant.

Originally, Raksha Bandhan was a very auspicious festival having spiritual significance as well.

On this day, the family pundits tied an amulet, on the wrists of family members, which were generally prepared using cotton or silk threads.

This tradition is also mentioned in Bhavishya Purana.

In this Purana, Krishna reveals to Yudhishthira the significance of this day.

He also explains to him the procedure to carry out this day in detail.

So, this festival dates back to ancient India and isn’t a new addition to the culture.

However, the way it is celebrated has changed significantly over time.

Slowly from becoming a religious ritual, it became a symbol of love and protection.

Sisters took over the position of priests and started tying the amulets to their brothers.

As mentioned earlier, this festival held immense prominence for daughters as they could visit their paternal homes.

Slowly that tradition is also coming to an end.

Movies and pop culture has greatly influenced the way rakhi is perceived and celebrated today.

It has almost lost its spiritual significance completely.

People have devised new ways to celebrate rakhi and have also used the festival as a means to accomplish various interests.

Summary: Rakhi is a festival of immense prominence.

The auspicious relationship of a brother and sister is reaffirmed on this day with a seal of love and purity.

It is not a mere exchange of words and gifts.

It is an exchange of the feeling of love, of the promise of protection, and the bond of purity.

Raksha Bandhan

Festivals play a significant role in everyone’s lives, mainly because we meet our families, friends, and relatives together.

Hindus celebrate many festivals throughout the year, and among these, Raksha Bandhan is one celebrated by brothers and sisters.

It is a festival celebrating the bond between a brother and a sister.

This festival is celebrated with a lot of sweets, the tying of a thread of bonding called Rakhi, and some return gifts.

Raksha Bandhan is usually celebrated in the month of August.

During the festival, sisters tie a thread or Rakhi to their brothers, promising that the brother shall be their protector for life.

It is rightly said that a brother-sister relationship is precious. Raksha Bandhan is celebrated by all, irrespective of age or marital status.

Paragraph on Raksha Bandhan in 100 Words

Raksha Bandhan is a cultural festival celebrated during the Sawan month or the month of August.

This is a holy occasion for commemorating the bond between brothers and sisters.

On this day, sisters tie a thread or a rakhi on their brothers’ wrists to symbolise their bond.

In return, brothers promise that they shall be the protectors of their sisters for their entire life and give a return gift.

They both give sweets to each other, and sisters pray for their brother’s long life and protection.

This festival symbolises faith and eternal love between a brother and sister.

Paragraph on Raksha Bandhan in 150 Words

In our lifetime, we maintain many relationships, but the bonding between a brother and sister is precious.

They may fight every other day; they might not even share a piece of chocolate, but their bond is beyond anything else.

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated as a festival of peace and harmony.

On this day, the sisters tie a thread or a bracelet to their brothers and the brothers, in return, promise to be their sisters’ protectors for their entire life. The Rakhi, or the thread, is a pious symbol of being someone’s protector.

In 1905, during the partition of Bengal, Rabindranath Tagore used this occasion to signify the centuries-old bond between the Hindus and Muslims of Bengal.

Paragraph on Raksha Bandhan in 200 Words

Raksha Bandhan is also known as Rakhi Purnima, which is a cultural festival celebrated between brothers and sisters.

On this day, all the sisters tie a sacred bracelet or the Rakhi on their brothers’ wrists as a symbol of protection from all evils.

The brothers, in return, promise their sisters to be their protectors for their entire life and give a return gift.

Rakhi is considered to be the symbol of love and unity, as per Hindu mythology.

In ancient times, it was not celebrated between siblings; in fact, the festival was celebrated between husbands and wives.

This festival started from the story of Lord Indra and his wife Sachi, who tied Rakhi to save her husband from the evil king Bali.

in ancient times, it was celebrated between the couples. Still, with time, it extended to the siblings, where the brothers shall protect the sisters from all evil, and equally, the sisters shall protect their brothers from all evils.

Raksha Bandhan is also celebrated in other countries like Nepal, UAE, Mauritius, etc.

Different people celebrate the festival in different ways as per their wishes. Some people wear new clothes and prepare different dishes as part of the celebration of the occasion.

Paragraph on Raksha Bandhan in 250 Words

Raksha Bandhan is a festival which is celebrated to show love and unity.

This festival is celebrated in the Sawan month as per the lunar calendar and on the full moon day; therefore, it is also called Rakhi Purnima.

On this auspicious day, brothers promise to safeguard their sisters from all evils.

Even cousins and brothers who promise to look after their sisters by heart can say it out loud.

The sisters worship their brothers and then tie a thread or Rakhi around their wrists to strengthen the promise and receive a gift from their brothers in exchange.

Rakhi was celebrated between husbands and wives in ancient times, which has now extended to brothers and sisters.

It started with Sachi, wife of Lord Indra, who tied Rakhi to her husband to protect him from the evil king Bali.

So all the wives used to tie the Rakhi on this auspicious day to their husbands.

But, later on, this festival began to be celebrated between brothers and sisters to maintain unity and love.

During the British Raj, Rabindranath Tagore also took the help of Rakhi to stop the partition of Bengal and promote friendship and unity.

This festival is celebrated by the Hindus and the people of different communities in India. People of Nepal, UAE, Mauritius, etc.,

also celebrate this festival with a lot of dedication and respect.

Depending on the region, this festival has been named differently.

It is called Avani Avatar in South India and also called Kajari Purnima in some areas.

Frequently Asked Questions on Raksha Bandhan

Q1 Why do we celebrate Raksha Bandhan?

We celebrate Raksha Bandhan to celebrate love and unity.

It is a festival now celebrated between brothers and sisters but was celebrated between a husband and wife in ancient times.

We celebrate Raksha Bandhan to strengthen the bond between brothers and sisters.

Q2 How is Raksha Bandhan celebrated?

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated by sisters tying a sacred thread on their brothers’ hands and sharing sweets.

The brother promises that he shall be his sister’s protector for his entire life.

Rakhi: The Thread Of Love

Rakhi is basically a sacred thread of protection embellished with the love and affection of a sister for her brother.

This day is also known as Raksha Bandhan and celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravana in India.

This frail of thread of Rakhi is considered as stronger than iron chains as it binds the most beautiful relationship in an inseparable bond of love and trust.

Rakhi festival also has a social significance because it underlines the notion that everybody should live in harmonious coexistence with each other.

Not a single festival in India is complete without the typical Indian festivities, the gatherings, celebrations, exchange of sweets and gifts, lots of noise, singing and dancing.

it is rather a regional celebration to celebrate the sacred relation between brothers and sisters.

Primarily, this festival belongs to north and western region of India but soon the world has started celebrating this festival with.

Raksha Bandhan

Rakhsha Bandhan is a famous festival among Hindu religions, popularly known as Rakhi.

This festival is widely celebrated in India and signifies the brotherhood and love among Indians, which is the true significance of Rakhsha Bandhan. 

In the Hindu religion, Rakhsha Bandhan is defined as the safety bond that shows the purity and bonding between siblings.

Usually, this special Hindu festival occurs on the full moon day, in the month of Shravan, based on the Hindu calendar. 

The festival is celebrated to give importance to the extraordinary relationship between the siblings and symbolize the brotherhood relationship among Indians.

Who Started the Raksha Bandhan celebration and why?

Nobel poet Rabindranath Tagore encouraged celebrating this festival to oppose the partitionof Bengal in 1905.

He wanted to create a strong bonding between the different communities through this festival. 

He encouraged Hindus and Muslims to tie a Rakhi on each other’s hands, symbolizing brotherhood and love for their community. Celebration of this festival was a powerful attempt against the British rulers and their effort to partition Bengal and divisions between Hindus and Muslims.

History of starting Raksha Bandhan

We have found several stories in Indian history which describe the history of starting this festival.

The story of Raksha Bandhan has related today to Hindu mythology and the Hindu epic Mahabharata.

Once Lord Krishna cut his finger, Draupadi tied a piece of cloth from her saree, which stopped the bleeding.

After this incident, the piece of cloth becomes a sacred thread And symbolizes the true significance of Raksha Bandhan.

There is also a famous story about King Bali and Goddess Laxmi, which also depicted the origin of the Raksha Bandhan.

The Demon King Mahabali was a devotee of Lord Vishnu.

The devotion of king Bali made Lord Vishnu take the responsibility to protect the Kingdom.

Due to which he had to leave his place in Vikindam.

The Lord Vishnu’s wife, Goddess Lakshmi, could not stay apart from her husband, so she arrived at Mahabali castle disguised as a Brahmin refugee woman.

Goddess Laxmi tied Rakhi on the mahabali king’s wrist on a full moon day, also called Shravan Purnima. 

After a few days, Lord Lakhi revealed her real identity, and that revelation so touched king Mahabali that he requested Lord Vishnu to accompany goddess Lakshmi to Vaikuntam.

The king of mahabali castle was touched by Lord Vishnu’s affection and his family.

From that day onwards, it is a tradition to invite someone’s sister on Shravan Purnima for tying the auspicious Raksha Bandhan thread.

Significance of Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi is one of the most celebrated days in India. All over the country, people, irrespective of their caste and religion, celebrate this auspicious day.

The celebration of Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan signifies protection. 

Generally, we find people all over the country going to temples and priests and getting a secret rate tied.

This is hugely celebrated in the Kala Bhairava temple in Varanasi, where people tie a black thread on their wrists.

We learn scenes are seen in the Vaishno Devi temple in Jammu and Kashmir, where people are seen tying a red band around their forehead on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan. 

According to traditions, it is said and believed that if someone maintains its sanctity, even Yagnopaveetam acts as a Raksha to the wearers.

One misconception of Raksha Bandhan in India is that it can only be performed between brothers and sisters.

However, this concept is not true, and even a husband or wife can tie Rakhi in each other’s hands, or a disciple can also tie Rakhi to his guru.

Tying Rakhi or someone’s hand is set to increase the bond of protection, respect, and love between the two individuals irrespective of any blood relations they have with each other. 

How to Celebrate Rakhi

From the above discussion, we had already seen that Rakhi doesn’t need to be tied only by sisters to their brothers.

On the day of Raksha Bandhan, we were giving the Rakhi to someone who wishes good health and a happy life for him, and in return, the other person gifts or something with the promise of protecting them throughout their life. 

The true significance of Rakhi, or the thread here which is being tied, is a strong representation of love and protection.

On this day, they wear new attires, and after tying the Rakhi, they have good food cooked in their places.

Conclusion

In the above article, we have seen the true significance of Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan, which is protection, love, and respect.

We have briefly seen who started the Rakhi celebrations and the mythological story of why it is celebrated every year. 

This article briefly mentions that Rakhi is not just supposed to be between siblings but also can be between husbands and wives. Raksha Bandhan is celebrated every year in India and will remain one of the most auspicious days that we see in a year.

The Origins and Practices of Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi (pronounced R-AH-K-REE) is a Hindu festival.

This festival celebrates brother-sister relationships and sibling love.

The term Raksha Bandhan originates from Sanskrit, and translates to “bond of protection.”

Raksha Bandhan is observed on the full moon in the holy Hindu luni-solar month of Shravana.

This month corresponds to the Gregorian calendar month of August.

During Raksha Bandhan, sisters (and female cousins) tie a rakhi on their brother and male cousins.

A rakhi is similar to a friendship bracelet, but it’s more ornate.

The rakhi signifies her bond and support of her brother and cousins.

In exchange, the sisters and/or cousins receive a gift from their brothers.

The gift often is a check or cash.

The boys are charged with the responsibility of protecting the girls from life’s problems, and offering his blessings.

This protection lasts for one year. After the gift has been exchanged, the girls place a sweet in the brother’s mouth.

There are many stories that people claim to be the origins of Raksha Bandhan; here are two of the more popular ones:

Draupadi & Krishna:

Draupadi and Krishna are siblings in the epic, the Mahabharata. This is one of Krishna’s many lives.

As the story goes, Krishna cut his finger while handling sugarcane. Krishna’s wife, Queen Rukmini, sent someone to get bandages. However, Draupadi saw the incident, and she cut off part of her saree and tied it around his finger to stop the bleeding. Krishna then promised to help her out when she needed it.

Several years later, some men try to undress Draupadi in public, by unraveling her saree.

Krishna is there and sees this.

Krishna uses his magic to make Draupadi’s saree never ending, so that she would not have to be disrobed in front of everyone.

Roxana & King Porus:

Alexander the Great invaded India in 326 BCE. His wife Roxana was worried about his safety.

She sent King Porus, the king of the Pauravas, a rakhi, and asked him not to hurt her husband on the battlefield.

During the Battle of the Hydaspes River, King Porus saw the rakhi on his wrist.

This reminded him of his promise to Roxana.

He then stopped himself from attacking Alexander.

Porus lost the battle, but he won Alexander’s respect and honor. Alexander reinstated Porus as a governor of his own kingdom.

He also allowed him to rule over last to the south-east of his kingdom.

Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan (also known as Rakhi or Rakri) is a beautiful holiday celebrated by Hindus around the world to honor the love and duty between brothers and their sisters.

However, for many, the holiday transcends biology, and brings together men and women across religions, ethnic groups and is a celebration of all forms of platonic love.

In Sanskrit, “Raksha Bandhan” literally translates to “the knot of protection.” Though the rituals vary across geographic locations, they all incorporate the tying of a thread.

The sister (or sister-like figure) ties a colorful, sometimes ornate, thread on her brother’s wrist.

The thread signifies the sister’s prayers and well wishes for her brother.

The brother then gives his sister a thoughtful gift.

The Origins

Mentions of Raksha Bandhan date back to 326BCE in legends of Alexander the Great.

There are also several mentions of Raksha Bandhan in Hindu scriptures:

Sachi and Indra

In the Bhavishya Puran scripture, Sachi, the wife of Indra, tied a thread around Indra’s wrist to protect him in battle against the powerful demon King Bali.

This story suggests that holy threads may have served as amulets in ancient India, used by women to protect men going to war, and not just limited to brother-sister relationships.

You can catch Indra in action in our flagship title, Hanuman and the Orange Sun.

Lakshmi and Bali

In the Bhagavat Puran and Vishnu Puran, after Vishnu conquers the three world from King Bali, King Bali asks Vishnu to live in his palace.

Goddess Lakshmi, Vishnu’s wife, is not happy about this arrangement.

She ties a rakhi on King Bali making him a brother.

Honored by the gesture, King Bali grants her a wish.

Lakshmi requests that Vishnu return home.

Use Padmini is Powerful as a fun and colorful way to introduce your little one to Hindu gods and goddesses like Lakshmi and Vishnu.

Shubh, Labh, and Santoshi Maa

On Raksha Bandhan, Ganesh’s sister, Devi Manasa, came to visit.

She tied a Rakhi on Ganesh’s wrist. Ganesh’s sons, Shubh and Labh, were taken by this beautiful tradition, but were angry that they did not have a sister.

They begged their father for a sister so that they, too, could participate in the Raksha Bandhan celebration.

After much convincing, Ganesh obliges.

Santoshi Maa is created, and the three siblings celebrate Raksha Bandhan every year thereafter.

You can read about Ganesh’s childhood adventures in Ganesh and the Little Mouse.

Krishna and Draupadi

Krishna and Draupadi are good friends.

When Krishna injures his finger in battle, Draupadi tears her sari to bandage his wound.

Krishna is overwhelmed with gratitude by this act of love and promises to repay her in some way.

Krishna keeps his word and valiantly rescues Draupadi in a time of need.

In addition, in Mahabharat, Draupadi tied a Rakhi on Krishna before he left to fight in the great war.

And, similarly, Kunti tied a Rakhi on her grandson Abhimanyu before he went to war.

What Is Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan is a ritual of never-ending love between brother and sister, which perfectly defines the strong bond between them.

When words are not enough, a holy thread is simply tied to the brothers’ wrist by their sisters.

This unique way of showing love is indescribable.

However, when it comes to saying something about this festival, you can just say that it is a festival to celebrate love for the siblings.

It is a widely celebrated festival in the Eastern and Northern parts of India.

Ideally, on this day, the girls put tikka on the forehead of their brothers and tie a colorful thread of love and blessings on their wrist who in return promise to protect her for the whole life.

They also offer gifts as a symbol of commitment. Overall, Raksha Bandhan is all about celebrating sibling love in India and the countries like Nepal, Mauritius, etc.,

including sending Rakhi to Mauritius.

Meaning of Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan is a popular festival celebrated across the country, which symbolizes the selfless love between brothers and sisters.

While we all have been celebrating the auspicious festival since childhood, it is quite important to understand ‘Raksha Bandhan meaning’.

Knowing the meaning behind what we celebrate and enjoy can enhance all the celebrations and the emotional aspect of the rituals.

Raksha Bandhan definition is the word “ Raksha” means protection, and “ Bandhan” means to tie.

And the holy thread offered by the sisters is a symbol of love and commitment between brother and sister.

It symbolizes the love between brothers and sisters by blood, but it is also celebrated among sisters-in-law, siblings by heart, aunt, and nephew, and so forth.

In Conclusion, it is a festival that is heartily dedicated to the pure love between those two pure souls who love each other unconditionally and committed to protecting each other for a lifetime, they are either siblings by blood or siblings by heart.

Best Gift For Sisters For The Occasion of Raksha Bandhan

An occasion like Raksha Bandhan rings the bell once in a year, and it’s a moment that means a lot to a sister, so adore your loving sister with some super fantastic gift items which can make her delighted on this special day.

You will never go wrong with offering a package of dark chocolate, personalized mug, favorite teddy, etc. So, dedicate a meaningful gift that can bring a big smile of happiness to her face on this special day.

Gifts For Brothers For Raksha Bandhan

He would have always surprised you with lots of gifts on various occasions.

Now, it’s time to return the favor by giving your brother a little token of love.

With blessings and loads of love, offer some heart-touching gifts to naughty brother on the special occasion of Raksha Bandhan.

Delight him with cute and adorable gifts such as personalized pen stands, personalized photo frames, God idols, etc., and let him know how much he means to you.

The Importance of Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan holds immense importance in Indian culture and society, serving as a cherished occasion that celebrates the unique bond between siblings.

This festival goes beyond its surface rituals to signify deep emotional and cultural values.

At its core, Raksha Bandhan emphasises the concept of protection and care. The act of a sister tying a rakhi (holy thread) around her brother’s wrist symbolises her trust and belief that he will always be there to safeguard her, both physically and emotionally.

In return, the brother pledges to shield his sister from harm and provide support throughout her life.

This exchange of promises reinforces the mutual love and responsibility that siblings share.

The festival also fosters unity and family ties. It brings family members together, strengthening the sense of belonging and kinship.

It’s a time when relatives come together to celebrate, share meals, and exchange gifts. In a world that’s becoming increasingly fast-paced and individualistic, Raksha Bandhan serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing close relationships and maintaining strong familial connections.

Furthermore, Raksha Bandhan transcends biological relationships.

While it primarily revolves around brothers and sisters, it extends to relationships between cousins, friends, and even community members.

This inclusivity reflects the broader Indian philosophy of interconnectedness and communal harmony.

In essence, Raksha Bandhan is more than just a simple thread-tying ritual; it encapsulates the values of love, protection, unity, and shared responsibilities. It’s a time-honoured tradition that reinforces the significance of relationships and highlights the beauty of human connections.

The Origin of Raksha Bandhan

The origin of Raksha Bandhan dates back to ancient Indian history and is steeped in both mythology and historical narratives.

One of the most famous stories associated with the festival is that of Queen Karnavati and Emperor Humayun.

Queen Karnavati of Mewar was faced with a crisis as her kingdom was under the threat of invasion.

In her desperation, she sent a rakhi to Emperor Humayun, seeking his protection.

Touched by her gesture, Humayun immediately set out to defend the queen’s kingdom, considering her like a sister. This historical event highlights the essence of Raksha Bandhan – the promise of protection and support.

Another significant tale is the story of Lord Krishna and Draupadi from the Indian epic Mahabharata. When Draupadi tore a piece of her sari to tend to Krishna’s wounded finger, he vowed to protect her in times of need. Years later, during her humiliation in the royal court, Krishna came to her rescue by miraculously extending the length of her sari.

his act of protection and loyalty exemplifies the spirit of Raksha Bandhan.

These stories, along with other cultural and mythological accounts, have contributed to shaping the festival into what it is today—a celebration of the unbreakable bond between siblings and the assurance of safeguarding each other.

Reasons for Celebration of Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated for several significant reasons, all of which centre around the themes of love, protection, and unity.

1. Sibling Bond: The primary reason for celebrating Raksha Bandhan is to honour and strengthen the bond between siblings. It’s a time for brothers and sisters to express their affection and commitment towards each other.

2. Protection and Care: The festival signifies the promise of protection and care that brothers offer to their sisters. This symbolic act of tying a rakhi reinforces the brother’s commitment to safeguarding his sister’s well-being.

3. Cultural Traditions: Raksha Bandhan is deeply rooted in Indian culture and traditions. It’s a way of preserving and passing on the values of family, relationships, and mutual respect from one generation to the next.

4. Communal Harmony: The festival extends beyond biological siblings and promotes harmony within communities. People from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate and exchange rakhis, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity.

5. Historical Significance: Raksha Bandhan has historical narratives that showcase instances of protection and support. These stories highlight the importance of standing by loved ones in times of need.

6. Emotional Expression: Raksha Bandhan provides a platform for siblings to openly express their emotions and feelings. It’s a day to celebrate the unique connection they share and to cherish memories together.

7. Family Gathering: The festival brings families together, creating an opportunity for relatives to reconnect, share meals, exchange gifts, and strengthen the familial bond.

8. Cultural Identity: Raksha Bandhan is an integral part of Indian identity and heritage. Celebrating the festival helps individuals connect with their roots and cultural heritage.

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated for its profound significance in acknowledging and cherishing the bond between siblings, promoting protection and care, and reinforcing the cultural and emotional values that define Indian society. The Raksha Bandhan meaning goes beyond the threads and rituals, encompassing a celebration of love, unity, and shared responsibility.

Raksha Bandhan: History

The Raksha Bandhan festival’s history dates back to Hindu mythology.

There are several stories behind the Raksha Bandhan festival. Some are given below.

According to Hindu mythology, the great Indian epic, in Mahabharata, Draupadi, wife of the Pandavas had torn the corner of her sari to prevent Lord Krishna’s wrist from bleeding because Lord Krishna had inadvertently hurt himself.

Thus, a bond between brother and sister developed between them and he promised to protect her.

Another story of Rakhi is associated with Rani Karnavati of Chittor and the Mughal Emperor Humayun.

Rani Karnavati was the widowed queen of the King of Chittor.

Her kingdom was attacked by Bahadur Shah, Sultan of Gujarat and she realised that she will not be able to protect her kingdom from the invasion of the Sultan of Gujarat.

Therefore, she sent a Rakhi thread to Mughal Emperor Humayun.

The Emperor was overwhelmed by the gesture and started off towards Chittor with his troops without wasting time to protect Chittor from the invasion.

Rakhi festival is a great sacred verse of unity.

It acts as a symbol of life’s advancement and a leading messenger of togetherness.

Raksha means protection and in some places in medieval India, when women felt unsafe, they tie Rakhi on the wrist of men or send Rakhi regarding them as brothers.

In this way, the Rakhi festival is a sacred festival that strengthens the bond of love and affection between brothers and sisters and revives emotional bonding.

On this day, Brahmins change their sacred thread (janoi) and dedicate themselves once again to the study of the scriptures.

Raksha Bandhan: Significance

Raksha Bandhan is a sacred and beautiful festival where sisters dress up beautifully to celebrate the special occasion with their brothers.

Sisters tie Rakhi on the wrist of their brothers and pray for their long life and prosperous future. Rakhi holds great emotional and religious significance. The festival symbolises the true feelings of the siblings, the nature of the promise that they will be together, whether in happiness or in pain.

It strengthens the relationship between brother and sister and ensures togetherness.

So, celebrate the festival and every moment with your brother and sister and have a wonderful Raksha Bandhan. 

What Is Raksha Bandhan? A Closer Look

Raksha Bandhan is a Hindu festival that embodies the family value of filial responsibility.

It is an ancient tradition of honoring the relationship between brother and sister, and symbolizes his vow to protect her.

Learn about this festive holiday, and how you can take part in celebrations.

What Is Raksha Bandhan?

The term Raksha Bandhan means “bond of protection.”

It comes from the Sanskrit word rakhi, a type of bracelet or amulet made out of thread, that sisters tie around their brother’s wrists in gratitude for protecting them.

In the northern Indian state of Punjab, Raksha Bandhan began as a way to symbolize the bond between groups of people.

Since it is a border state, Punjab often fought against neighboring armies.

Therefore, Raksha Bandhan mainly symbolized the bond between the Punjabi army and the people of the state it protected.

Over time in Punjab, the festival became a way to celebrate the brother-sister bond as well.

Origins of Raksha Bandhan

There are various stories of how Raksha Bandhan began.

One story comes from the Indian epic poem The Mahabharata.

Lord Krishna (an incarnation of the god Vishnu) cuts his finger, so Draupadi, his cousin-in-law, tears a strip from her saree to bind the wound.

Afterward, Krishna promises to return the favor to her.

Another story is that of Lord Indra.

About to be defeated during the war between the gods and demons, he asked his guru, or advisor, Brihaspati for help.

Brihaspati instructed him to tie a sacred thread around his wrist. Indra’s wife, Indrani, tied the thread on Brihaspati’s wrist and consequently, the gods were victorious.

Yet another story is that of Bali, a demon king.

He asked Lord Vishnu to guard his kingdom and thus, Vishnu left his abode to stay at Bali’s palace.

 In opposition, Vishnu’s wife disguised herself, went to Bali’s palace, and tied a thread on Bali’s wrist.

After revealing who she was and why she was there, Bali was touched by her love for her husband, and asked Vishnu to return to his home with her.

Preparations for Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan occurs on the full moon during Sravana, the fifth month of the Hindu lunar calendar.

This year, Raksha Bandhan falls on August 22, .

Prior to the ceremony, before the full moon rises, the sister collects a number of things needed for the Raksha Bandhan ritual:

• Rakhi threads (silken threads of red and gold)
• Kumkum powder (what is placed in the center of the forehead)
• Diya (a lamp used in rituals)
• Agarbattis (incense sticks)
• Sweets

These items that she gathers on a large plate are called thali.

The Raksha Bandhan Ceremony

The purpose of Raksha Bandhan is to renew and strengthen the filial bond of peace and love.

First, all members of the family make offerings to their deities.

Then, as she ties the Rakhi on her brother’s wrist, the sister chants a prayer and marks his forehead with Kumkum powder.

She prays for his health and he returns the sentiment by vowing to protect her.

During the ceremony, sacred verses from Hindu scriptures are also spoken.

Once the sister has tied the Rakhi, she traditionally places something sweet in her brother’s mouth. In return, he presents her with a gift.

Join in Raksha Bandhan

The sentiments of Raksha Bandhan make it a jubilant time.

It is common to give cards, sweets, flowers, or small presents to family and friends.

You could even throw a theme party for Raksha Bandhan.

Choose traditional Indian music special to the occasion, dress in traditional Indian clothing, and encourage your guests to try the Bun Thun Chali dance.

Rakhi Bracelets

You can make your own Rakhi bracelets with thread or ribbon tied together. For something more elaborate, decorate with beads.

Sweets

As with all festivals, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated with food, both savory and sweet, similar to food during Diwali.

There are many traditional dishes, and each family has its own favorites.

Confectionary, which contains nuts and aromatic spices, can be cooked at home and makes an appreciated gift. You might like to try out some of the recipes.

Greeting Cards

Hindu families have friends and relatives living all over the world, so it’s now customary to send cards to wish them a happy Raksha Bandhan.

You can also email an assortment of Raksha Bandhan cards online.

Flowers

No festival would be complete without colorful flowers.

They are used to decorate the house and send as gifts.

Homemade flowers, constructed from bright tissue paper also brighten up a home with vibrant colors.

Celebrate Loving Bonds

The sentiments expressed through Raksha Bandhan are those of maintaining family bonds.

You can join in the fun and celebrate too by honoring the bonds you have with your friends and family.

Hospitality is also very prevalent in the Hindu culture.

Invite those you love and give them small gifts and sweets to express your affection and gratitude.

Raksha Bandhan

What does Raksha Bandhan celebrate?

Raksha Bandhan celebrates the love and relationships between brothers and sisters.

When is it celebrated?

This day is celebrated on the full moon day during the Hindu month of Shravan.

In the year  this is August 2nd.

Who celebrates this day?

The day is mostly celebrated in India and by people of the Hindu faith.

What do people do to celebrate?

The main custom of Raksha Bandhan is the giving of a bracelet of woven threads called a rakhi.

he rakhi is traditionally given to a brother from his sister.

It represents the sister’s promise to pray for her brother and the brother’s vow to protect his sister.

The brother and sister will often exchange gifts as well with sister typically providing some sweets to eat and the brother giving money.

Today, people other than brothers and sisters will participate. Sometimes the ceremony is shared by close friends, cousins, priests, and soldiers.

History of Raksha Bandhan

There are many stories and tales about the Rakhi in Hindu and Indian history.

It became popular in the 1500s after a widowed queen named Rani Karnavati sent a Rakhi to the Mughal Emperor asking for help in defending her city.

After this event, sisters would offer a Rakhi to their brothers as a reminder that they should protect their sisters from foreign invaders.

Fun Facts About Raksha Bandhan

• The word Raksha means protection. The brother promises to protect his sister.
• The word Bandhan means “to tie” or “bond”. The sister ties the rakhi around her brother’s wrist.
• It is thought that the protection offered by the rakhi lasts for one year. So the festival and ceremony must be repeated each year.
• Sometimes the rakhis are decorated with colored threads and even colored beads and stones.
• Sisters can buy the rakhi or make their own from thread and crafts.

Raksha Bandhan 

Raksha Bandhan is one of the most popular festivals of the Hindu community and is observed as the day to honour the relationship between a brother and sister.

In English, ‘Raksha Bandhan‘ translates to ‘the bond of protection, obligation or care’.

According to the Hindu calendar, Raksha Bandhan falls on the last day of the lunar calendar month of Shravan.

In , Raksha Bandhan (Rakhi) will be celebrated on 30th August (Wednesday).

Importance of Raksha Bandhan Festival

Raksha Bandhan is a festival celebrated in India to honor the sacred bond between brothers and sisters.

It holds immense importance as it symbolizes the deep-rooted affection, love, and protection that siblings have for each other.

This festival not only strengthens the bond between siblings but also fosters a sense of unity, love, and respect within the family.

It serves as a reminder of the values of loyalty, trust, and support that are essential in any relationship.

Raksha Bandhan transcends boundaries, bringing families together and reinforcing the significance of the sibling bond.

It is a celebration of the unbreakable bond of love and a cherished tradition that brings joy and happiness to all involved

Raksha Bandhan History and Significance

The origin of Raksha Bandhan goes as far as the era of Gods and Goddesses. According to a popular legend, Draupadi tied a piece of cloth on Lord Krishna’s wrist when he hurt his finger while fighting to kill the evil King Shishupal. Krishna, in return, promised to protect her.

Medieval history has another significant version about a brother’s promise to his sister.

When under attack by Bahadur Shah of Gujarat, Rani Karnavati of Mewar sent a Rakhi to Emperor Humayun and sought help from him.

Touched by the gesture, the Mughal ruler abandoned his military campaign and rushed to help the queen without wasting any time.

During the Partition of Bengal in 1905, Rabindranath Tagore started Rakhi Mahotsav – a mass Raksha Bandhan festival, to instil a feeling of togetherness and love between Hindus and Muslims of Bengal.

It is known that he started this tradition as a counter to the efforts of the British of creating a divide between communities.

Raksha Bandhan Pooja Vidhi

Raksha Bandhan, an auspicious festival celebrated in India, involves a significant ritual known as the “pooja vidhi.”

The pooja vidhi commences with the preparation of a small pooja thali containing a diya (oil lamp), roli (vermilion powder), rice grains, sweets, and Rakhi. Sisters perform an Aarti, waving the lamp in a circular motion in front of their brothers, and apply a tilak of roli on their foreheads.

They then tie the Rakhi around the brother’s wrist, offering prayers for his well-being and prosperity.

In return, brothers give gifts to their sisters as a token of their love and promise to protect them from all adversities.

The pooja vidhi creates a spiritual atmosphere, strengthening the bond between siblings and reinforcing the significance of Raksha Bandhan  as a celebration of love and protection.

Raksha Bandhan  Celebrations across India

On this day, a girl puts tilak on her brother’s forehead, performs his aarti, and ties a Rakhi around his wrist, commemorating their sacred bond.

In return, the brother gives special gifts to his sister, along with the promise to take care of her and protect her under any circumstances.

Among the Rajasthani and Marwari communities, there is a ritual to tie ‘Lumba Rakhi’ on the bangle of their brother’s wife.

It is believed that since the wife is considered to be the better half, the ritual would be incomplete without her.

Also, she will equally share her husband’s responsibility to ensure the well-being of his sister.

This ritual is fast catching up to other Indian communities as well.

Raksha Bandhan 

Raksha Bandhan is a Hindu festival celebrated in India, and by most Indians all around the world.

It is one of the most prominent festivals of India; one that revolves around the bond of a brother and sister.

The word ‘Raksha’ means ‘To protect’ and Bandhan refers to a ‘Bond.’

This bond of protection is symbolised by a band or thread called as a ‘Rakhi.’

It’s about tying the Rakhi, exchanging blessings, gifts, smiles, pranks, laughter and most importantly, love. Raksha Bandhan  Date

Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on 30th August  (Wednesday), on a full moon day or Purnima of the Hindu month of Shravana.

Where Is Raksha Bandhan Celebrated?

Although the core ritual of celebration remains the same; there are many regions that celebrate Purnima along with Raksha Bandhan. 

• Maharashtra celebrates Narali Purnima, where coconut is offered by the devotees. It signifies the beginning of the fishing season. 
• Madhya Pradesh and Bihar celebrate Kajari Purnima, marking the commencement of the agricultural season. 
• West Bengal celebrates Jhulan Purnima, which is for Lord Krishna and Radha. 
• Uttarakhand has Jandhyam Purnima, one that encourages Janeyu ceremonies among Brahmins. 
• Odisha celebrates Gamha Purnima that is primarily about worshipping cows and buffalos. 
• There is Pavitropana (worshipping Lord Shiva) in parts of Gujarat, Upakarma (pertaining to a Holy thread) in Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh.
• Raksha Bandhan in Rajasthan is unique. It is called as ‘Lumba Rakhi.’ Traditionally, it is a Rakhi tied to the sister-in-law, or the brother’s wife also known as Bhabhi. It shows acceptance, respect and admiration for her, as she is the ‘Ardhangini,’ and thus equivalent to the status of her husband.  

Origin/Historical Significance of Raksha Bandhan

There are quite a lot of stories tracing back to the origin of Raksha Bandhan as a festival. 

1. Lord Krishna and Draupadi

The most popular story around the origin of Rakhi is the one from Mahabharata.

Lord Krishna had once injured his finger; so much so, that it started bleeding.

On seeing this, Draupadi tore off a piece of her saree, wrapped it around his finger and bandaged the wound.

Touched by her gesture, Lord Krishna promised to protect her & blessed her by uttering the word ‘Akshyam’ which means ‘unending.’ Later, when Draupadi was in distress during her ‘Cheerharan;’ it was Lord Krishna who helped her by extending the saree and protecting her from the humiliation.

2. Emperor Humayun and Rani Karnavati

Another historic story relating to Rakhi is one of Queen Karnavati and Mughal Emperor Humayun.

Rani Karnavati was in charge of Mewar. During a war situation, she sent a Rakhi to Emperor Humayun and also wrote to him seeking support.

Respecting the honour of a Rakhi, Humayun and his forces decided to extend support and protect Mewar. 

3. Yam Yamuna

Stemming from Indian mythology, yet another story is of the Lord of death, Yama and his sister Yamuna.

Yamuna was upset as Yama wouldn’t visit her for years.

When Yama finally visited her (upon being reminded by Ganga), elated Yamuna prepared a feast for him, and also tied a Rakhi on his wrist.

When Yama asked her to express her desire, she just wanted him to keep visiting her.

Yama felt happy and blessed her with immortality.

This is the story behind the river Yamuna that still flows endlessly today.  

4. Goddess Lakshmi and King Bali

One of the many mythological stories revolving around Rakhi is one of King Bali and Goddess Lakshmi.

Lord Bali was a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu.

When he prayed to Lord Vishnu for protecting him, Lord disguised himself as a gatekeeper and stayed at his palace.

Goddess Lakshmi (hiding her true identity), visited the palace as a woman seeking a place to stay.

She was welcomed by King Bali as a sister, and the palace prospered like never before.

On the day of Shravana Purnima, she tied a cotton thread on his brother’s wrist.

When asked for a desire, she pointed towards the disguised Lord Vishnu and this is how both of them revealed their true identities; and returned to Vaikuntha. 

5. The 1905 Bengal Partition

This incident took place back in 1905, during the Partition of Bengal. When Lord Curzon had demanded a partition between Hindus and Muslims residing in the state of Bengal.

It was Rabindranath Tagore, who urged the masses to unite against the divide & rule policy, irrespective of their religion.

He organized a ‘Rakhi Mahotsav’ for thousands of Hindus and Muslims as a mark of brotherhood and unity.

As a result of which, the partition was called off.

There are many other stories such as the one of Indra Dev and Sachi, Lord Ganesha & Goddess Santoshi etc.

that pertain to Raksha Bandhan and its historic significance.

How Is Raksha Bandhan Celebrated?

Rituals

Raksha Bandhan has everything to do with Pooja, Prashad, Rakhi, sweets, gifts, games and more.

Traditionally, the Pooja involves a proper Aarti Ki Thali with a diya, a bit of vermilion, turmeric, a few grains of rice, some prasad, coconut, a mithai and of course, the Rakhi.

Women worship their brothers, pray for their health and prosperity, tie the Rakhi on their wrist and there’s an exchange of sweets. 

Based on recent trends, ornamental Rakhis are tied to the sisters-in-law as well; in a similar manner. 

Some people also tie a Rakhi to an idol of Lord Krishna, seeking protection and support in times of need. 

Gifts

The brothers offer cash, chocolates or gifts to their sisters. Nowadays, even sisters shower their adoration by giving presents to their brothers.

These gifts are above and beyond a formality; as they’re like souvenirs of the beautiful bond that siblings share. 

Food and Sweets

Although there isn’t a specific menu for Raksha Bandhan’s feast; Indian festivals can never be complete without elaborate, Desi dishes and sweets.

The food preparations are usually in accordance with the taste of the daughter of the house.

All in all, along with a festival, it’s a fun-filled day that involves a warm get together of the whole family.

The elders and the children of the house get to play fun games, exchange gifts, click pictures and spend quality time with each other.

Raksha Bandhan 

Raksha Bandhan’s basic idea is to honour the bond between brothers and sisters.

In fact, the words “Raksha Bandhan” mean “bond of protection.”

The main events of the holiday involve sisters tying a “rakhi,” a kind of sacred thread, around the wrist of their brothers.

This is to indicate their love for their brothers.

The brother, in turn, gives his sisters gifts that indicate his commitment to protecting them.

Today, rakhi threads are sometimes given to “non-sisters.”

For example, priests may tie them on the wrists of congregants, friends may exchange them, and others tie them around the wrists of Indian soldiers.

In these cases, the rakhi indicates simply protection rather than a brother-sister relationship.

The rakhis are very colourful, made of red and golden threads that are intertwined. But there is more going on than just the exchange of rakhis on Raksha Bandhan.

You will also observe traditional singing and dancing, find Indian sweets and souvenirs for sale, and see various local cultural celebrations.

Guide to Raksha Bandhan

There’s nothing like the bond between siblings those relationships are important and unique in every culture across the globe.

That’s why there have been incredible stories written about the connection that a brother has to his sister and vice versa.

The festival of Raksha Bandhan is a ceremony in Hinduism that’s deeply rooted in tradition and protection, and is a sacred holiday to the entire family.

What is Raksha Bandhan?

Translated in Sanskrit as “the tie or knot of protection,” Raksha Bandhan is a festival that symbolizes the eternal love of brother-sister relationships (which are not exclusive to only blood relations).

It’s also referred to as Rakhi, Nariyal Purnima, or Kajari Purnima, and is celebrated differently depending on the state or region.

During the festival, tradition is that the sister will tie a rakhi bracelet around the wrist of her brother to pray for his health and wellbeing, while the brother offers gifts and promises to protect her in return.

When is Rakhi?

Rakhi is celebrated on the full moon day (or Purnima day) in the Hindu calendar month of Shraven, which falls on August 30th this year, , and on August 19th next year, .

Origins of Raksha Bandhan

Similar to Holi (and many other holidays across various cultures), there are several different origin stories of how Rakhi began.

One tale is from the Indian epic poem The Mahabharata.

The main story revolves around two branches of family  the Pandavas and the Kauravas.

Cousins who, in the Kurukshetra War, battled for the throne of Hastinapura. The epic is divided into 18 sections, making it the longest poem in the world’s history.

Within this story, Lord Krishna cuts his finger, and Draupadi, his cousin-in-law, sees the incident and tears a strip from her saree to bind the wound. Krishna promises to return the favor to her if she ever needs it.

Several years later, men try to undress Draupadi in public, by unraveling her saree.

Krishna sees it and uses his magic to make Draupadi’s saree never-ending to prevent her from having to undress in front of everyone.

Others believe that Raksha Bandhan comes from the story of King Bali and the Goddess Lakshmi.

In the Bhagavat Puran and Vishnu Puran, after Vishnu conquers the three worlds from King Bali, King Bali asks Vishnu to live in his palace.

Goddess Lakshmi, Vishnu’s wife, is not happy about this arrangement so she ties a rakhi on King Bali, making him a brother.

In return, King Bali grants her a wish, and she requests that Vishnu return home.

The story of Lord Indra is another origin story of this holiday.

In the Bhavishya Puran scripture, Sachi, the wife of Indra, ties a thread around his wrist to protect him in battle against the powerful King Bali.

This story suggests that holy threads may have served as amulets in ancient India, used mainly by women to protect men going to war, and not just limited to brother-sister relationships.

How is Raksha Bandhan celebrated?

Before the coming of Raksha Bandhan, sisters begin buying rakhis for their brother from the market usually in the form of colorful threads, often red or gold.

On the actual day of Raksha Bandhan, brothers and sisters wear new clothes and typically celebrate in the presence of their parents, elders, and grandparents.

The sisters tie the rakhi around their brothers’ wrists, perform prayers for the well-being of their brother, and apply a ‘tilak’ (a mark typically made by a red powder) on the forehead of their brothers.

Happy Rakhi wishes & messages

Raksha Bandhan symbolizes the bond of love, care, and respect. Expressing wishes of ‘Happy Rakhi’ is a popular way of showing appreciation for those in your life – here are a few inspirational messages to send to loved ones.

• Wishes for your brother: ‘I pray for your happiness, prosperity, and long life. Sending loads of love and best wishes. Happy Raksha Bandhan.’
• Wishes for your sister: ‘The most amazing thing about having a sister is like having a best friend in life. Thank you for always being there for me. Happy Rakhi!’
• Wishes for loved ones: ‘In every phase of my life, you have always supported and loved me. This Raksha Bandhan, I promise to do the same for you and will always stand by your side no matter what. Happy Raksha Bandhan!’
• Wishes for your friends: ‘We must not limit the celebrations of Raksha Bandhan just to brothers and sisters but extend them to all the relationships which protect us and believe in us….. Though we are friends but we are bonded stronger than families and therefore, I wish you a very Happy Rakhi.’
• Wishes for your family: ‘On the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, I am sending my warm wishes to my loving family because you have always been there to keep me protected from the bad times and challenges and give me strength…. Happy Rakhi to you.’

Gifts for others on Rakhi

Celebrate Ayurvedic traditions & beauty

Traditions are an extremely sacred practice in every culture, and it’s important to celebrate them.

We were founded on the idea of practicing the holistic rituals and traditions of Ayurvedic beauty.

We’re passionate about incorporating those customs into our products and wellness rituals.

WHAT IS RAKHI? DISCOVER THE MEANING OF RAKSHA BANDHAN

For many, there’s no greater bond than the connection between siblings.

As you grow up, these relationships might change and evolve, but they’ll always be rooted in deep care and love for one another. 

That’s why we have Raksha Bandhan, or Rakhi, one of the most important festivals and holidays in Indian culture.

This day celebrates the tightly knit bond that exists not only between brothers and sisters but between family members and close friends as well.

Let’s learn about this Indian festival and discover how you can incorporate the lessons of Rakhi into your daily life. 

WHAT IS RAKSHA BANDHAN? 

Rakhi is short for Raksha Bandhan or Raksha Bandhana.

Rakhi is a Hindu festival celebrating the bond between siblings and families, often called Brother and Sister Day.

Translated from the original Sanskrit, “Raksha Bandhan” meaning translates to “bond of protection.” 

It’s celebrated on the day of the full moon of Shravana, a Hindu month typically falling in July and August.

Despite the vast differences between regions, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated all across the subcontinent and across all walks of life.

RAKHI’S MYTHIC ORIGINS

Raksha Bandhan has many different origin stories throughout Hindu tradition, with one of the most widely known accounts found in the Indian epic, the Mahabharata.

In this story, Lord Krishna cuts his finger. Draupadi, who felt as close to Krishna as she would have to an actual brother, tore off a piece of her sari and wrapped it around his wound.

Surprised and moved by her gesture, Krishna vowed to protect her and return the favor to her sometime in the future.

Passed down through the generations, this story inspires millions of modern-day Indians to display their gratitude for friends and family in the form of a ritual on Rakhi every year.

It’s a day for brothers, sisters, and all family members to remind one another of how much they care.

THE CUSTOMS OF RAKHI

The days leading up to Rakhi involve friends and family reaching out to loved ones to invite them to their celebration as a token of their gratitude.

Once the festival arrives, sisters apply tilak (religious mark) to their brothers’ foreheads.

Next, they tie Rakhi to their brothers’ wrists.

This thread represents the siblings’ love and wishes for each to find fulfilling happiness. In doing so, they pray for their brothers’ good health and long life. 

Finally, the sister will perform arati, a practice in which she lights a small oil lamp and prays for her brothers’ well-being and success in life. 

Once the sisters have completed their portion, the brothers do the same, offering a gift to their sister and making a promise to care for her and look after her.

Today, the meaning of Rakhi extends not only to blood relatives but also to distant cousins and close friends.

The festival is a great occasion to bring together all generations: grandparents, aunts, uncles, and any loved ones you can imagine.

It’s an opportunity to show your gratitude and appreciation for the people in your life.

RAKHI’S MEANING — BEYOND BROTHERS AND SISTERS

Rakhi primarily celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters, though the holiday also celebrates the bond between all people. 

Friends and family members often use the opportunity to show their appreciation towards each other by tying Rakhi on each other’s wrists.

This ritual doesn’t simply serve as an external display of love but also elevates friends to the level of family.

A rakhi tied between neighbors represents a powerful bond that transcends the traditional neighborly relationship.

All in all, Rakhi revolves around protection and familial love.

It also drives home the message that the connections that bind us together are much deeper than blood alone.

Indeed, it expands everyone’s conception of just what it means to be family in the concept of Vasudhaiva kutumbakam bringing together the whole world as one.

FOOD SERVED ON RAKSHA BANDHAN

Like all Indian festivities, food and celebration go hand-in-hand.

Here are some of the most popular dishes you’re likely to find at a Rakhi celebration.

MOONG DAL HALWA

This rich and savory lentil recipe is one of the most popular in North India.

Made up of mung lentils, ghee, cardamom, and pistachio, moong dal halwa takes a lot of time to make, but it’s always worth it. 

CHOLE BHATURE

Chole bhature is a delicious fried bread made of maida flour, and it’s one of the most popular breakfast comfort foods in Punjab.

It’s also one of the stars of the show at any celebration. 

KHEER

No Indian celebration is complete without creamy Kheer.

This decadent dessert dish brings together basmati rice, heavy cream, and sugar along with a subtle hint of toasty vanilla.

It’s the perfect palate-cleanser at the end of a long meal.

HAPPY RAKSHA BANDHAN  FROM SUKHI!

Being a good brother or sister isn’t easy. In fact, it’s one of the most difficult relationships to maintain for many as they grow up.

It’s easy to make mistakes, and often those mistakes result in hurting the feelings of someone you care about.

Remember that these relationships among family are some of the most important you’ll ever have. 

We all need time to reflect on how deeply we appreciate our loved ones and show them how much we care.

That’s exactly why we need celebrations like Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan. 

To have the best Rakhi celebration possible, be sure to stock up on Indian essentials like our crowd-pleasing Chicken Tikka Masala, fluffy lemon rice, or toasty and crispy samosas.

As you’re waiting for your order to arrive, read through our blog to learn everything there is to know about Indian culture.

Explore the vast differences between Indian regional cuisine and add some delicious vegetarian-friendly recipes to your repertoire for your next sibling celebration.

Who Started the Raksha Bandhan celebration and why?

Nobel poet Rabindranath Tagore encouraged celebrating this festival to oppose the partitionof Bengal in 1905.

He wanted to create a strong bonding between the different communities through this festival. 

He encouraged Hindus and Muslims to tie a Rakhi on each other’s hands, symbolizing brotherhood and love for their community. Celebration of this festival was a powerful attempt against the British rulers and their effort to partition Bengal and divisions between Hindus and Muslims.

History of starting Raksha Bandhan

We have found several stories in Indian history which describe the history of starting this festival.

The story of Raksha Bandhan has related today to Hindu mythology and the Hindu epic Mahabharata.

Once Lord Krishna cut his finger, Draupadi tied a piece of cloth from her saree, which stopped the bleeding.

After this incident, the piece of cloth becomes a sacred thread And symbolizes the true significance of Raksha Bandhan.

There is also a famous story about King Bali and Goddess Laxmi, which also depicted the origin of the Raksha Bandhan.

The Demon King Mahabali was a devotee of Lord Vishnu.

The devotion of king Bali made Lord Vishnu take the responsibility to protect the Kingdom.

Due to which he had to leave his place in Vikindam.

The Lord Vishnu’s wife, Goddess Lakshmi, could not stay apart from her husband, so she arrived at Mahabali castle disguised as a Brahmin refugee woman.

Goddess Laxmi tied Rakhi on the mahabali king’s wrist on a full moon day, also called Shravan Purnima. 

After a few days, Lord Lakhi revealed her real identity, and that revelation so touched king Mahabali that he requested Lord Vishnu to accompany goddess Lakshmi to Vaikuntam.

The king of mahabali castle was touched by Lord Vishnu’s affection and his family.

From that day onwards, it is a tradition to invite someone’s sister on Shravan Purnima for tying the auspicious Raksha Bandhan thread.

Significance of Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi is one of the most celebrated days in India. All over the country, people, irrespective of their caste and religion, celebrate this auspicious day.

The celebration of Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan signifies protection. 

Generally, we find people all over the country going to temples and priests and getting a secret rate tied.

This is hugely celebrated in the Kala Bhairava temple in Varanasi, where people tie a black thread on their wrists. We learn scenes are seen in the Vaishno Devi temple in Jammu and Kashmir, where people are seen tying a red band around their forehead on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan. 

According to traditions, it is said and believed that if someone maintains its sanctity, even Yagnopaveetam acts as a Raksha to the wearers.

One misconception of Raksha Bandhan in India is that it can only be performed between brothers and sisters.

However, this concept is not true, and even a husband or wife can tie Rakhi in each other’s hands, or a disciple can also tie Rakhi to his guru.

Tying Rakhi or someone’s hand is set to increase the bond of protection, respect, and love between the two individuals irrespective of any blood relations they have with each other. 

How to Celebrate Rakhi

From the above discussion, we had already seen that Rakhi doesn’t need to be tied only by sisters to their brothers.

On the day of Raksha Bandhan, we were giving the Rakhi to someone who wishes good health and a happy life for him, and in return, the other person gifts or something with the promise of protecting them throughout their life. 

The true significance of Rakhi, or the thread here which is being tied, is a strong representation of love and protection.

On this day, they wear new attires, and after tying the Rakhi, they have good food cooked in their places.

Conclusion

In the above article, we have seen the true significance of Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan, which is protection, love, and respect. We have briefly seen who started the Rakhi celebrations and the mythological story of why it is celebrated every year. 

This article briefly mentions that Rakhi is not just supposed to be between siblings but also can be between husbands and wives. Raksha Bandhan is celebrated every year in India and will remain one of the most auspicious days that we see in a year.

History of Rakhi (Raksha Bandhan) Festival

The traditional festival of ‘Raksha Bandhan’ i.e.

Rakhi dates back its origin about 6000 years ago during Aryans established first civilization.

Due to diversity in many languages and cultures, the traditional customs & rituals to celebrate Rakhi festival differs from region to region across India.

There are many historical evidences exist in Indian history regarding celebration of Hindu festival of Raksha Bandhan.

The story of Lord Krishna and Draupadi

For the protection of the Dharma on earth, Lord Krishna killed the devil King Shishupal.

Lord Krishna was hurt in the war and left with bleeding finger.

Seeing his bleeding finger, Draupadi had torn a strip of her saree and tied around his injured finger to stop the bleeding.

Lord Krishna has valued to her concern and affection.

He felt bounded by her sisterly love & compassion.

He pledged to repay the debt of gratitude in her future.

After many years, Pandavas lost their wife Draupadi in the game of dice to crooked Kauravas.

They had attempted to remove the saree of Draupadi that was the time when Lord Krishna protected the dignity of Draupadi through his divine powers.

King Bali and Goddess Lakshmi

Mahabali, the demon king was a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu.

Due to his immense devotion, Lord Vishnu took the responsibility to protect Bali’s Kingdom leaving his normal dwelling place in Vikundam. The wife of Lord Vishnu i.e. Goddess Lakshmi became very sad.

She wanted to stay with her husband Lord Vishnu.

So she went to King Bali in disguise of as a Brahmin woman and taken refuge in his castle.

She tied Rakhi on King Bali’s wrist on the full moon day called Shravana Purnima.

Later Goddess Lakshmi revealed who she was actually and why she had come.

The king was moved by her and Lord Vishnu’s good will and affection for him & his family.

Bali requested Lord Vishnu to accompany his wife to Vaikuntam.

It is believed that since that day onwards it has become a custom to invite one’s sister on Shravana Purnima to tie auspicious thread of Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan.

The story of Rani Karnawati and Emperor Humayun

The story of Rajputana Rani Karnavati and Mughal Emperor Humayun is the most popular evidence in the history.

In the medieval era, Rajputs were fighting & protecting their Kingdom from Muslim invasions.

Since those times, Raksha Bandhan means the commitment and protection of one’s sister was the foremost.

Rani Karnawati was the widowed queen of the king of Chittor.

She realised that she could not be able to protect her Kingdom from the invasion of the Sultan of Gujarat, Bahadur Shah.

She sent a Rakhi thread to Mughal Emperor Humayun.

The Emperor was overwhelmed by the gesture and started off towards Chittor with his troops without wasting time.

The story of Alexander the Great and King Puru

One of the oldest references to the History of Rakhi festival goes back to 300 B.C. during the time when India was invaded by Alexander.

It is believed that the great conqueror, King Alexander of Macedonia was wavered by experiencing the fury of the Indian King Puru in his first attempt of defense.

On seeing her’s husband plight, Alexander’s wife, who had been aware of Rakhi festival, approached King Puru.

King Puru accepted her as his Rakhi sister and he refrained from war against Alexander.

Rakhi festival: History, Rituals and Customs Unveiled

In India, numerous festivals are celebrated around the year. Rakshabandhan is one of them.

 it is on the 30th of August in  and is also called Saluno, Salono, Rakri, and Rakhi.

Though mostly celebrated in North India, it is a Hindu Rakshabandhan is honored throughout the country.

Among many chronicles of it, the one related to Hindu mythology is considered the oldest.

 In Mahabharata, we comprehend an incident where Lord Krishna’s wounded wrist is secured by Draupadi as she tears a piece from her clothing and ties it to his injury to stop the bleeding.

In another tale, there is a significant connection between Mahabali, the powerful king, and Goddess Lakshmi.

In this story, Goddess Lakshmi tied a sacred thread, known as a rakhi, around the wrist of Mahabali, seeking his protection and blessings for the safe return of her husband, Lord Vishnu, to their divine abode, Vaikuntham.

Here we perceive a deep sense of concern and care, an initiative for the security that a human provides for another.

As ‘Raksha’ indicates protection, we get a clear knowledge of the significance of the ritual of tying a rakhi on a person’s wrist.

This gesture denotes that we express the same feeling of concern to secure that person; it implies how much we care for another human being, though he or she may not be related to us by blood or in a communal way.

The Bond of Love and Affection 

It is a significant festival that commemorates the bond of love and affection shared between siblings.

The festival’s name itself, which translates to “bonds of protection,” highlights its purpose.

During Raksha Bandhan, sisters tie a sacred thread called a rakhi around their brothers’ wrists, symbolizing their prayers for their brothers’ well-being and happiness.

In return, the brothers promise to protect and honor their sisters throughout their lives.

This joyous occasion is celebrated with prayers, sweets, and the participation of the entire extended family, fostering a sense of togetherness and enjoyment.

Over the years, the way we celebrate Rakhi has evolved.

Previously, the focus was primarily on following traditional customs, with traditional sweets and food playing a significant role in the festivities. However, in recent times, modern ideas of celebration have emerged, incorporating elements or various different gifts like Special Rakhi outfits  , box of chocolates into the festivities, reflecting changing preferences and embracing new forms of celebration.

Known as Rakhi Purnima 

Raksha Bandhan is also known as Rakhi Purnima, celebrated in Shravana month during full moon day or Purnima day.

As per the Georgian calendar, it falls in the month of August every year. Read on to know the Rakhi  date, timing, and how to celebrate.

The day is celebrated all across the country, and also in Nepal.

According to legends, the origin of Raksha Bandhan can be traced back to the day Lord Krishna was flying a kite and cutting his finger. 

Lumba Rakhi – The Rajasthan Rakhi 

The lumba rakhi holds a significant meaning within the broader concept of Raksha Bandhan as it is intended for the Bhabhi than the Bhai or bhaiya.

This tradition originated in the Marwari community of Rajasthan.

Tying the lumba rakhi to the sister-in-law symbolizes the sister’s acceptance of her into the family, strengthening their relationship.

It also signifies that the sister-in-law is committed to supporting her husband in protecting his sister.

The lumba rakhi differs from the traditional rakhi in its elongated shape, vibrant colors, and decorative elements.

It is designed to hang gracefully from the Bhabhi’s bangle, with the preferred method being to attach it to the wrist adornment.

A Festive That Unites Different Communities 

More than a ritual, the Rakhi festival is celebrated to unite different communities and cultures.

Its purpose is to establish a universal brotherhood among people.

The great Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore revived this ritual to justify the same reason.

Primarily, he urged the two communities of Hindus and Muslims to acclaim or celebrate Rakshabandhan broadly and publicly; it is a brotherly gesture of resolving all disputes and differences and unity together.

A great share of the poems and other writings of Tagore spreads the message of unity, where one community bonds with another through celebrating Rakshabandhan as it symbolizes making a promise to stand by the one whom we want to protect. It could be our siblings, related ones, or a person belonging to a different community.

Why do we celebrate Raksha Bandhan??

Meaning of Raksha Bandhan:

The festival is made up of two words, namely “Raksha” and “Bandhan.”

As per the Sanskrit terminology, the occasion means “the tie or knot of protection” where “Raksha” stands for the protection and “Bandhan” signifies the verb to tie.

Together, the festival symbolizes the eternal love of brother-sister relationship.

Historical Significance:

The tradition of Rakshabandhan has roots in Hindu mythology and history where a queen named Draupadi tied a piece of her saree around Lord Krishna’s wrist to stop his bleeding from a battle wound. Touched by her gesture, Krishna promised to protect her whenever she needed.

Modern Celebration:

Today, Raksha Bandhan remains a widely celebrated festival in India and among Indians around the world.

It’s a celebration of the universal values of love, care, and unity.

In different religions it is celebrated with different names such as in Jainism this festival is celebrated by giving ceremonial threads to devotees.

In Sikhism, it is observed as “Rakhardi” or Rakhari.

Lastly, Raksha Bandhan is a blend of ancient legends and cultural practices that celebrate the deep bond between siblings and the universal values of protection, love, and unity.

It’s a festival that has stood the test of time, continuing to bring families and friends together in celebration of their relationships.

History of Raksha Bandhan

Love Raksha Bandhan?

Find out about how it started and when the celebration of the festival began in this section that covers the History of Raksha Bandhan, popularly known as Rakhi.

Raksha Bandhan, like most other Indian festivals, finds its roots in the Hindu religious texts and mythological epics.

Though the exact date or year about when the festival started is not known, there are many real as well as mythological stories that are credited for making the festival as important as it is today and can aptly be called its ‘history’.

Historically, wives used to tie a thread of protection on their husband’s wrist but this practice changed to sisters tying the thread of Rakhi on their brother’s wrist over time.

The practice of a wife tying a thread of protection on her husband’s wrist finds its roots in a Hindu mythological tale of Lord Indra and his wife Indrani.

It is believed that the deities and the demons were fighting a battle once on the day of Shravan Poornima (full moon day in the Hindu month of Shravan).

The demons were in a winning position when compared to the deities.

The king of the deities, Lord Indra, was quite worried on seeing this.

His wife, Indrani prayed to God to help her husband and tied a thread (also called a talisman) around his right wrist to wish him good luck and help the deities win.

The talisman would offer him protection too.

After she did this, the tide turned in favor of the deities in the battle and they eventually won over the demons.

The practice of wives tying a thread on their husband’s wrist that brought protection as well as good luck to the latter got established in this manner.

The ceremony became popular as Raksha Bandhan and since the day Indrani tied it on Lord Indra’s wrist happened to be Shravan Poornima, Raksha Bandhan came to be celebrated on the day of Shravan Poornima every year.

Some people believe a tale from the Mahabharata, connected to the tale about Lord Indra and his wife, Indrani (also known as Shachee Devi, at times) is responsible for the setting up of the festival of Raksha Bandhan.

According to the Mahabharata, the eldest of the Pandava brothers, the righteous Yudhishtra once asked Lord Krishna how he could protect himself from problems and disasters in the year ahead.

Lord Krishna advised him to practice the ceremony of Rakshaa.

He narrated the story of Lord Indra and how his wife practiced the ceremony of Rakshaa to ensure his protection.

Yudhisthra was impressed with the story and practiced the ceremony to ensure that he remained protected from problems and bad luck in the future year.

Historically speaking, it is believed that the Aryans practiced the ceremony of conducting yagnas (a ritual performed to invoke the Gods and seek their blessings) before going for fighting wars.

Through yagnas, they sought protection through God’s blessings.

Their wives tied a sacred thread on their wrist during these yagnas to protect them from harm and bring them victory in war.

Again, we see that historically, the thread of protection was tied by the wife on the husband’s wrist.

Over time, this practice transformed into sisters tying a thread on their brother’s wrist to bring them good luck and blessings on the festival of Raksha Bandhan.

In current times, we strictly know Raksha Bandhan as a festival that celebrates the bond between a brother and a sister but historically we see that, that was not the only relationship the festival was associated with.

Besides the various religious and mythological tales related to the history of Raksha Bandhan, there is a real-life historical incident that is associated with the history of the festival as well.

The great poet, philosopher and writer, Rabindranath Tagore celebrated Raksha Bandhan in Bengal to bridge the growing divide between Hindus and Muslims.

He could understand what the British were trying to do by creating misunderstanding between the two communities and he wanted to do the exact opposite by uniting them in a spirit of unity and brotherhood so the partition of Bengal could be avoided.

Since Raksha Bandhan celebrates brotherhood, he celebrated it as a community festival so a spirit of communal harmony, unity and brotherhood could be created as well as established.

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated in Bengal every year thanks to the initiative taken by Rabindranath Tagore in 1905.

The current nature of the festival and its celebration has acquired its various meanings and associations from several incidents and tales from the past.

It is essentially a festival that revolves around the protective instinct that human beings (and many other mammals) have of protecting their loved ones from harm.

Sisters pray for their brother’s well-being while brothers vow to protect their sisters for life.

Celebrate this beautiful festival of love and care that has a dedicated section of Raksha Bandhan Gifts and thalis.

Not only can brothers order attractive gifts for their sisters, sisters too can order traditional Rakhi Gifts that come with all the items that are required for the ceremony during the festival.

From Sandalwood Rakhis to Golden and Silver plated Rakhis, the attractive range of Rakhis on the portal is quite comprehensive. Celebrate Raksha Bandhan

Most Indian festivals have an important background that give it significance.

Although there are modifications in the practices and celebrations which evolve over the years, there is still a very strong connection which can be made to its roots.

It is the ancient relevance and the ability to connect with the past which makes every festival in India be celebrated with reverence, sincerity and dedication as much as with fun and joy.

This is not something that you will find on just one particular occasion, but something that is common to every celebration and festival in India.

For the uninitiated, the festival of Raksha Bandhan, popularly known as Rakhi, came into being nearly 6000 years back, with the creation of Indus Valley Civilization. But as in the case of other festivals, there are many historical and mythological legends attached to the festival. Here we present a few extraordinary legends behind the festival.

This is something that makes Rakhi truly magical.

This is not a festival which has gained popularity merely for its tradition, but also for its rooted symbolisms which have been evolved from the early ages.

The phenomenon of Raksha Bandhan draws inspiration from historic and mythological legends equally.

Here is why Raksha Bandhan has enjoyed importance over the centuries.

Rani Karnawati and Emperor Humayun

During the medieval times, it was a very well known fact that Muslim invaders attacked Rajput Kingdoms and even kidnapped their women.

When king of Gujarat Bahadur Shah attacked Chittor, the widowed queen Karnavati of this princely state beckoned Mughal emperor Humayun help by sending a bejeweled rakhi.

Humayun obliged and immediately rushed his forces to his sister’s aid.

Unfortunately, by the time the troops reached Chittor, the queen and thousands of other women had already committed Sati to save their honors.

Deep in sorrow the disheartened Humayun is said to have applied a pinch of ash from Karmawati’s pyre on his forehead as a mark of affection and respect for the dead queen.

Although a story with a tragic end, this still shows a promise that gives every sister hope and faith in her brother and the bond that they share.

Alexander The Great and King Puru

Lore has it that when Alexander of Macedonia invaded Indian sub-continent in 300 B.C.,

he faced a tough opponent in the form of King Puru –the ruler of western India.

The battle was so demoralizing for Alexander that finally his beloved had to do something about it.

She sought an audience with King Puru and at once tied Rakhi to him. Puru in a brotherly gesture decided not to harm Alexander.

These are just some of the lessons from history that will make you find Raksha Bandhan more compelling.

Mythological references to this festival are just as profound, and sure to make your faith in the celebration stronger.

Lord Krishna and Draupathi

To protect righteous people, the benevolent Lord Krishna killed the evil King Shishupal.

Krishna hurt himself in the process and was left with a bleeding finger.

Draupathi, immediately tore her Saree and tied it around Krishna’s wrist.

The Lord moved by Draupathi’s gesture promised to repay her debt in the future.

A few years later when Kauravas tried to disrobe Draupathi, Krishna saved her honor with his divine powers.

The powers of Lord Krishna are immense, and to be able to repose the same faith that Draupadi had for Krishna in your brother only shows the potential that this festival has in being able to bring you all together.

King Bali and Goddess Lakshmi

King Mahabali was a great devotee of Lord Vishnu. Overwhelmed by his deep devotion Lord Vishnu decides to take over the responsibilities of his Kingdom.

However, for this, Vishnu had to leave his place in vaikuntam- much to the distress of Goddess Lakshmi – Lord Vishnu’s wife.  

Lakshi not very happy with her husband’s decision, decides to take refuge in Bali’s Kingdom in order to get her husband back. Finally, on Shravana purnima, she manages to tie Rakhi on King Bali’s wrist.

Till then she hadn’t revealed herself to Bali. But on rakshabandhan Goddess Laxmi let know Bali of her reservations.

The King was so touched by Laxmi and Vishnu’s goodwill that he begged Lord Vishnu to go back to vaikuntam.

 So this festival is also referred to as Baleva- Bali Raja’s devotion to Lord Vishnu.

Yama and Yamuna

Yama and Yamuna add to the significance of Raksha Bandhan immensely.

Yama gained immortality when his sister Yamuna tied him a rakhi.

Completely taken in by the import of the gesture, Yama affirmed that anyone who stood by their promise to protect their sister when tied a rakhi would be blessed with life everlasting.

Such happenings over the centuries have strengthened the bonds of affection between brother and sister which in fact are reaffirmed every year on the day of Raksha Bandhan.

To bring to light the importance and magnitude of the festival of Raksha Bandhan, has compiled a collection of the choicest Rakhi Gifts, including not just the conventional Rakhi Thalis and Raksha Bandhan gifts, but an array of exquisite selections that can articulate your emotions perfectly.

These are not mere symbols of the festival, but also ways to help you reach out to your family, connect with them and also a means to get you all closer together.

Enjoy the celebrations and strengthen the special bond forever.

The Story Behind Raksha Bandhan

India is the land of festivals.

Every two or three months we have a big celebration coming up with all thanks to our rich cultural diversity.

It is beyond beautiful to watch people belonging to different religions bond beautifully over commonly-celebrated festivals of India.

Amongst many such instances, the festival of Raksha Bandhan is one.

Mainly belonging to the northern states of India, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated with a lot of vigor.

You must know how people celebrate the lovely festival of Raksha Bandhan but you might not be aware of the pious story behind Raksha Bandhan. It is for this reason that we recited it for you.

The roots of Raksha Bandhan

Hindu mythology is the proud home of Raksha Bandhan.

This is where it all began.

The oldest mention of Raksha Bandhan is in the holy Mahabharata which is a sacred book of the Hindus.

When Lord Krishna inadvertently hurt himself, his wrist bled. Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, was an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna.

She couldn’t bear to look at Lord Krishna’s bleeding wrist.

So, she tore a piece of cloth from her saree (the traditional garment of Indian women) and tied it on Lord Krishna’s wrist to stop the blood from dripping.

It was at that moment that a sacred bond between Draupadi and Lord Krishna was established.

 It was the bond of a sister and her brother. From that day on, a special day was dedicated to the celebration of the beautiful relationship that brothers and sisters share with each other.

It came to be known as Raksha Bandhan.

The story of Raksha Bandhan is truly a marvelous one.

Historical Perspectives: Rakhi in Ancient India

Raksha Bandhan has historical roots as well, with mentions in ancient texts and scriptures.

The festival was not only limited to blood relations but also extended to neighbouring kingdoms and communities as a symbol of mutual respect and harmony.

During the Mughal era, Rakhi was even exchanged between Hindu queens and Muslim rulers, further strengthening the spirit of brotherhood and unity.

The literal and symbolic meaning of Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan is made up of two wordsRaksha and Bandhan.

Raksha means protection and Bandhan means bond.

So, the literal meaning of Raksha Bandhan is “a bond of protection”.

Sisters pray for the long life and happiness of their brothers and tie a sacred thread called Rakhi on the wrists of their brothers to protect them from all sorts of evil influences.

In return, brothers touch the feet of their sisters to gain blessings from them and promise to protect their sisters at all times.

Brothers also offer a gift to their sisters as a token of their love and education.

The festival of Rakshabandhan is all about wishing the best for your siblings and promising to stick up for them in times of need.

So, that’s everything that the previous Raksha Bandhan story was all about.

When is Raksha Bandhan celebrated

In the month of Shravana according to the Hindu calendar which usually falls around July or August of the English calendar, a full moon takes place.

It is on this day that Raksha Bandhan is celebrated.

The markets are decorated a couple of weeks in advance as sisters look for the prettiest rakhi for their brothers and brothers come in search of the best rakhi gift for brother.

Modern Day Celebrations: Honoring Love and Togetherness

With the advent of modern times, Raksha Bandhan has evolved into a grand celebration.

While traditional customs still hold strong, online platforms now enable siblings separated by distance to send Rakhis and gifts to each other, bridging the gap and keeping the spirit of Rakhi alive.

Rakhi Feasts: Savoring the Sweetness of Togetherness

No festival in India is complete without a feast, and Raksha Bandhan is no exception.

Families come together to enjoy delectable dishes, sweets, and desserts, creating unforgettable memories and strengthening the bond of love and togetherness.

Rakhi Around the World: A Universal Bond

Beyond cultural and geographical boundaries, Rakhi is a celebration of the universal bond of love between siblings.

As the festival gains recognition worldwide, it echoes the message of love, care, and protection, transcending all barriers.

Raksha Bandhan

The date of Raksha Bandhan is determined by the Hindu luni-solar calendar. This year, Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 30,  or August 31, .

Raksha Bandhan  Date

Raksha Bandhan, a cherished Indian festival that celebrates the bond between siblings, falls on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravana.

The date of Raksha Bandhan is determined by the Hindu luni-solar calendar.

It is celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Shravan.

This year, Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 30,  or August 31, .

This year Raksha Bandhan will fall on August 30.

According to the Drik Panchang, Purnima Tithi Begins will begin at 10:58 AM on August 30th and end at 07:05 AM on Aug 31.

Raksha Bandhan History

The history of Raksha Bandhan is a long and complex one, with many different legends and stories associated with it.

The festival is believed to have originated in ancient India, and there are references to it in texts dating back to the 3rd century BCE.

•        One of the most popular legends of Raksha Bandhan is the story of Yama and Yamuna. Yama is the god of death, and Yamuna is the river goddess. According to the legend, Yamuna tied a thread around Yama’s wrist, and he promised to protect her from death. This is said to be the origin of the practice of tying a rakhi (thread) around a brother’s wrist.

•        Another popular legend is the story of King Bali and Goddess Lakshmi. King Bali was a powerful demon king, and he had conquered the three worlds. However, he was also a devotee of Vishnu, and he promised to give Vishnu anything he wanted. Vishnu asked for Bali’s kingdom, but Bali refused. Vishnu then disguised himself as a Brahmin woman and went to King Bali’s palace. He asked King Bali for alms, and King Bali gave him his hand. The Brahmin woman then tied a rakhi around King Bali’s wrist, and King Bali was bound by his promise to protect her.

•        Raksha Bandhan is a festival of love, protection, and brotherhood. It is a day for sisters to express their love and concern for their brothers, and for brothers to promise to protect their sisters. The festival is also a way to strengthen the bonds of family and friendship.

In modern times, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated all over India, as well as in other parts of the world where there is a significant Hindu population.

The festival is also celebrated by other faiths, such as Jainism, Sikhism, and Buddhism.

The celebration of Raksha Bandhan typically begins with a puja (prayer ceremony).

The sister then ties a rakhi around her brother’s wrist.

The brother then gives his sister a gift, such as jewelry, sweets, or money.

The two then exchange vows of love and protection.

Raksha Bandhan is a time for families and friends to come together and celebrate the bonds of love and brotherhood.

It is a day to renew promises of protection and support, and to reaffirm the importance of family.

Raksha Bandhan Importance

Redefining Sibling Relationships

Raksha Bandhan transcends blood relationships, emphasizing the significance of emotional bonds.

It is not limited to biological siblings but extends to cousins, friends, and even neighbors, strengthening the sense of unity and camaraderie.

Symbolism of Protection

The central theme of Raksha Bandhan is the promise of protection.

The sacred thread (rakhi) tied by a sister around her brother’s wrist symbolizes her trust in his commitment to safeguard her, both physically and emotionally.

Harbinger of Love and Joy

Apart from the solemn vow of protection, Raksha Bandhan is also a joyful occasion.

Siblings exchange gifts, share nostalgic anecdotes, and indulge in traditional sweets, spreading love and happiness.

Celebration of Raksha Bandhan

Preparation and Rituals

The excitement for Raksha Bandhan begins weeks in advance.

Markets are adorned with colorful rakhis and gift options.

On the day of the festival, sisters prepare the puja thali with a rakhi, roli (vermilion), rice grains, and sweets.

Rakhi-tying Ceremony

The heart of the celebration is the rakhi-tying ceremony.

Sisters tie the rakhi around their brother’s wrist, applying a tilak on his forehead, and perform an aarti, praying for his well-being.

In return, brothers offer gifts and promise to stand by their sisters through thick and thin.

Joyous Get-Togethers

Raksha Bandhan brings families together.

Siblings who are geographically separated make efforts to reunite for this occasion. The day is marked by laughter, conversations, and relishing traditional dishes.

Sibling Bond Beyond Borders

In today’s globalized world, Raksha Bandhan has transcended geographical boundaries.

With the advent of digitalization, sisters and brothers send rakhis and gifts even if they are miles apart, celebrating the essence of their bond.

Conclusion

Raksha Bandhan, beyond its rituals and ceremonies, embodies the promise of protection, the celebration of sibling love, and the unity of relationships.

As it continues to evolve with changing times, its essence remains unchanged – a day to honor and cherish the unique bond shared by brothers and sisters.

On 30th August or 31st August, , as the sacred thread is tied and promises are exchanged, Raksha Bandhan will once again reaffirm the beauty of these cherished relationships.

Raksha Bandhan

Shravan purnima’s second festival is Raksha Bandhan.

This is an ancient tradition.

Bhavishya Purana refers to a battle between gods and demons, and Indra (the king of the gods) was feeling depressed.

At that time Indra’s wife Sachi took a thread, charged it with sacred verses or Mantras for protection and tied it on Indra’s hand.

Through the strength of this thread Indra conquered his enemies.

Since then till today this festival is celebrated.
Through the passage of time festivals are undergoing modifications.

Raksha Bandhan is also known as Rakhi.

Rakhi has become a sacred festival for sisters and brothers.

Sisters tie them to brothers.

Priests tie them to people of his congregation.

During the middle ages, if a woman tied a Rakhi on the hand of any man, then it became imperative for him, as his religious duty of the highest order, to protect that woman.

That man would put his life at stake to protect the honour of that woman.
In those days, many Rajputs sacrificed their lives to protect their spiritual sisters.

Humayun received a Rakhi from the queen Karmavati of Chittor and for that, Humayun carried out his sacred brotherly duty and protected her by opposing his own soldiers.
According to ancient traditions, it is customary to have protection threads that are charged with sacred verses (Mantras) and sanctified with rice, durva grass etc.;

to have these tied by people who know the Vedas or by near and dear ones.

This protection thread saves from sins on the one hand and removes diseases on the other hand.

By tying this thread, protection is afforded for a full one year and all kinds of fears are removed.  

Nowadays Rakhis are decorated with soft silky threads of various colours, and also with ornaments, pictures, gold and silver threads etc.

These Rakhis enhance the artistry of the people.

Within these Rakhis reside sacred feelings and well wishes.

It is also a great sacred verse of unity.

Acting as a symbol of life’s advancement and a leading messenger of togetherness.
Each person should celebrate with enthusiasm this sacred festival of Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan.
(Raksha = protection Bandhan = tie).

Top of Form

THE HISTORY AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RAKSHA BANDHAN FESTIVAL

Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi, is a Hindu festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.

The festival is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravana, which falls in August.

Raksha Bandhan is a major festival in India and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor.

THE HISTORY OF RAKSHA BANDHAN:

The history of Raksha Bandhan dates back to ancient times, and there are several legends associated with the festival.

According to one legend, during the Mahabharata war, Lord Krishna’s finger was cut while fighting against Shishupala.

Draupadi, who was the wife of the Pandavas, tore a piece of her sari and tied it around Lord Krishna’s finger to stop the bleeding.

Lord Krishna was so touched by Draupadi’s gesture that he promised to protect her always.

This incident is considered the origin of Raksha Bandhan.

SIGNIFICANCE OF RAKSHA BANDHAN:

Raksha Bandhan is a festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.

On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread called Rakhi on their brothers’ wrists, and brothers promise to protect their sisters always.

The Rakhi is a symbol of love and affection between siblings, and it is believed to have a protective and auspicious effect on the person who wears it.

The festival also has social significance, as it strengthens the bond between family members and promotes harmony and unity in society.

It is also a reminder of the importance of protecting and respecting women in society.

RAKSHA BANDHAN CELEBRATIONS:

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor in India.

The festival begins with sisters tying Rakhi on their brothers’ wrists and performing aarti, a Hindu ritual that involves lighting a lamp and offering prayers to the deities.

Brothers, in turn, give gifts to their sisters and promise to protect them always.

The festival is marked by the exchange of sweets and other delicacies, and families come together to celebrate the occasion.

In some parts of India, the festival is also celebrated by tying Rakhi to friends and neighbors, symbolizing the bond of friendship.

CONCLUSION:

Raksha Bandhan is a festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters The festival is marked by the tying of Rakhi on brothers’ wrists and the exchange of gifts and sweets.

The festival is a reminder of the importance of protecting and respecting women in society and celebrates the love and affection between siblings.