Raksha Bandhan

Introduction

Raksha Bandhan, commonly known as the Rakhi festival, is a cherished Hindu celebration honoring the sacred bond of love and mutual protection between brothers and sisters. The name literally translates to “the bond of protection.” On this day, sisters tie a Rakhi (a decorative sacred thread) around their brothers’ wrists, praying for their long life, well-being, and prosperity. In return, brothers pledge to protect and care for their sisters, often presenting gifts as a token of their commitment. The festival transcends biological relationships and celebrates the protective bond in any loving relationship.

When It Is Celebrated

Raksha Bandhan is observed on the Purnima (full moon day) of Shravana month in the Hindu calendar, which is why it is also called Shravani Purnima. In the Gregorian calendar, it falls in August. The Shravana month itself is considered highly sacred in Hinduism. The most auspicious time for tying the Rakhi is during the Aparahna Kaal (afternoon), though celebrations typically begin in the morning. It is traditionally advised to avoid tying Rakhi during Bhadra Kaal, an inauspicious period that may occur on this day.

Mythological Story

Several mythological and historical narratives are associated with Raksha Bandhan. According to the Bhavishya Purana, when Indra, the king of gods, was facing defeat against the demons, his wife Shachi tied a sacred thread given by Lord Vishnu around Indra’s wrist, which empowered him to achieve victory. In the Mahabharata, when Lord Krishna cut his finger on the Sudarshana Chakra, Draupadi tore a strip from her sari and bandaged his wound. Krishna, moved by her gesture, regarded it as a Raksha Bandhan and vowed to protect her always, which he fulfilled during the infamous episode of Cheerharan (disrobing) in King Dhritarashtra’s court, where he miraculously extended her sari endlessly. Another legend involves Goddess Lakshmi tying a Rakhi to the demon king Bali, through which she secured the release of Lord Vishnu, who had become Bali’s doorkeeper.

Rituals and Celebrations

On Raksha Bandhan, sisters prepare a decorated puja thali containing the Rakhi, roli (kumkum/vermillion), akshat (unbroken rice grains), a diya (lamp), sweets, and a coconut. The brother is seated, and the sister first applies a tilak (vermillion mark) on his forehead, sprinkles akshat, and then ties the Rakhi on his right wrist. She performs aarti, offers sweets, and prays for his well-being. The brother gives his sister gifts and dakshina (monetary offering) and takes a solemn vow to protect her. In some families, a traditional mantra is recited while tying the Rakhi: “Yena baddho Bali Raja, Danavendro Mahabalah” (With the same bond that held the mighty King Bali, I tie this Rakhi upon you). The day is filled with family gatherings, festive meals, and the exchange of love and blessings.

Significance

Raksha Bandhan carries deep cultural and social significance in Indian society. The festival strengthens the bond of love, trust, and duty between siblings. The Rakhi thread, though simple in its material form, embodies profound sentiments of affection and the pledge of protection. The festival upholds the value of honoring and safeguarding women in society. In contemporary times, the spirit of Raksha Bandhan has expanded beyond blood relations: citizens tie Rakhis to soldiers at the border as a gesture of gratitude and respect, environmentalists tie Rakhis to trees to promote conservation, and communities use the occasion to bridge social divides. Raksha Bandhan preserves the invaluable heritage of familial bonds that lies at the heart of Indian culture.