Raksha Bandhan, often simply referred to as "Rakhi," is a popular Hindu festival that celebrates the bond of love and affection between brothers and sisters. The festival is observed on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Shravana, which usually falls in August.
The term "Raksha Bandhan" can be translated to "the bond of protection." On this day, sisters tie a colorful thread or bracelet called a "rakhi" around their brothers' wrists. The rakhi is a symbol of the sister's love and a prayer for her brother's well-being and protection. In return, brothers offer gifts or tokens of appreciation to their sisters and promise to protect and support them throughout their lives.
The ritual of Raksha Bandhan involves several steps:
Preparation: Sisters often prepare for the festival by selecting or making a rakhi that they'll tie on their brother's wrist. They might also buy sweets and gifts for their brothers.
Puja (Prayer) Ceremony: On the day of Raksha Bandhan, sisters perform a small prayer ceremony. They light a diya (lamp), apply a tilak (mark) on their brother's forehead, tie the rakhi on their wrist, and offer sweets.
Exchange of Gifts and Promises: After the rakhi is tied, brothers give gifts to their sisters, which can be anything from money to items like clothes, jewelry, or other presents. Brothers also promise to protect their sisters and provide support whenever needed.
Special Bond: Raksha Bandhan goes beyond biological siblings and can be observed between cousins, close friends, and even extended family members, where the bond is akin to that of siblings.
Celebration: The festival is marked by a sense of joy, togetherness, and festivities. Families come together, share meals, and celebrate the love between brothers and sisters.
Raksha Bandhan serves as a reminder of the importance of family bonds and the mutual care and protection that siblings provide for each other. It's a heartwarming celebration that strengthens the relationships within families and is widely celebrated across India and among Hindu communities worldwide.
