Raksha Bandhan is an occasion to celebrate the eternal bond between siblings. The origin of Raksha Bandhan goes as far as the era of Gods and Goddesses.
Traditionally on this day, sisters tie a sacred threat or knot around their brothers’ wrist, seeking his protection in return. They also exchange gifts and indulge in sweets and special dishes.
Raksha Bandhan is observed on the last day of the Hindu lunar calendar month of Shraavana, which typically falls in August.
This ritual involves lighting Diya and earthen lamps which represents the God of fire and performing aarti or worship by the sisters.
This year, Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on August 30th-31th. This festival name is made up of basically two words Raksha means protection and also Bandhan that means bond or tying of bond.
Sisters prepare the Rakhi Puja thali beautifully and put sweets, Roli Chawal, Rakhi and Diya inside the thali. The put-on Tika on their brothers’ forehead, tie Rakhi on their brothers’ wrist, feed them with sweets and then perform the Aarti ritual.
Raksha Bandhan: Phoolon Ka Taron Ka Sabka Kehna Hain, Ek Hazaron Main Meri Behna Hain
Brothers’ in return present wonderful gifts along with a promise to protect their sisters in every circumstance.
In combination, the phrase signifies bond protection that usually signifies the sacredness of the bond between siblings.
The ceremonies are carried out by Hindus from North and Western India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Mauritius, as well as the Sikh and Jain communities.
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 instill a feeling of togetherness and love between Hindus and Muslims of Bengal.
Wish you a Happy Rakhi.
