Raksha Bandhan, or “Rakhi,” is a comforting and culturally significant Hindu event celebrated in India and by the Indian diaspora worldwide. This event is a lovely celebration of the kinship that exists between brothers and sisters.
How should Raksha Bandhan be observed?
On the occasion of this festival, sisters often apply tilak to their brothers’ foreheads, tie the holy thread known as Rakhi to their brothers’ wrists, perform arati, and pray for their brothers’ good health and long life. This thread, which signifies love and exalted thoughts, is known as the ‘Raksha Bandhan,’ which means a link of protection’. In exchange, the brother gives his sister a present and promises to watch after her. Before tying a Rakhi on their brothers’ hands, the sisters first tie one on the Tulasi plant and another on the Peepal tree, praying for nature’s protection.
When is Raksha Bandhan?
Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravana, which is normally in July or August. On this day, sisters tie a holy thread or “rakhi” around the wrists of their brothers, and the brothers, in turn, swear to guard and care for their sisters.
Rakhi Traditions:
The tying of the rakhi is the major ceremony of Raksha Bandhan. Sisters usually do aarti (a ritual prayer) for their brothers before tying the rakhi around their wrists. It’s a symbolic gesture that represents the sister’s affection and the brother’s everlasting commitment to her protection. Gifts are frequently shared between siblings in addition to the rakhi. Brothers may give their sisters gifts, while sisters may respond with sweets or tiny gestures of love. Rakhi is frequently celebrated with family parties, where siblings meet to share meals and spend valuable time together. It’s a good opportunity to establish family ties.
Significance:
Raksha Bandhan commemorates the unique and enduring link between siblings. It spans age and time, highlighting the value of love, protection, and support within the family. While Rakhi is of Hindu origin, it is celebrated throughout India by people of many faiths and groups. It represents Indian society’s pluralism and encourages togetherness and mutual respect. With legends of queens and kings seeking protection from one another, the celebration has historical and mythical roots. The story of Lord Krishna and Draupadi is one of the most well-known, showing the heavenly and selfless character of the brother-sister relationship.
Modern Celebrations:
Raksha Bandhan celebrations have developed throughout the years. It has a contemporary flair in addition to old rituals. If they are unable to meet in person, many individuals now send rakhis to their brothers via mail. Beyond biological brothers and sisters, the holiday has evolved into a celebration of any protective or sibling-like ties. Raksha Bandhan is a day of love, contemplation, and connection, not only rituals. It serves as a reminder of how important it is to nurture and protect the relationships that bind families and friends together.
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