Festivals of India – Raksha Bandhan
India is a land of diverse cultures and traditions, and one can witness this diversity in its numerous festivals celebrated across the country. One such festival that holds a special place in the hearts of every Indian is Raksha Bandhan. Also known as Rakhi, this festival celebrates the bond of love and protection between siblings. It falls on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravana, which usually falls in August.
History and Significance
Raksha Bandhan has its roots in ancient Hindu mythology. According to one legend, when the demon king, Bali, was granted a boon by Lord Vishnu to rule the three worlds, he forgot to ask for protection from the Lord himself. Goddess Lakshmi, who was pleased with Bali’s devotion, tied a sacred thread around his wrist and asked him to promise to protect her in return. Touched by her gesture, Bali agreed to protect her and all those who tie the sacred thread of Rakhi on their brother’s wrist.
Another legend associated with Raksha Bandhan is that of Lord Krishna and Draupadi. When Draupadi tied a piece of cloth on Lord Krishna’s bleeding finger, he was so touched by her gesture that he promised to protect her from all harm. In return, Draupadi tied a Rakhi on Lord Krishna’s wrist, and he vowed to protect her from all dangers.
The festival of Raksha Bandhan celebrates the bond of love and protection between siblings. On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread, known as Rakhi, on their brother’s wrist, and the brother promises to protect and take care of his sister throughout her life. It is a celebration of the special bond between siblings, and a reminder of the love and support they offer each other.
Celebrations
The celebrations of Raksha Bandhan vary across India, but the essence of the festival remains the same – the bond of love between siblings. On the day of Raksha Bandhan, sisters prepare for the festival by decorating the puja thali with roli, chawal, sweets, and Rakhi. They then tie the Rakhi on their brother’s wrist and perform aarti. The brother, in turn, gives gifts to his sister as a token of his love and affection.
In some parts of India, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated as a community festival. Women tie Rakhi on the wrists of all the men in their community, and everyone comes together to celebrate the bond of love and protection between brothers and sisters.
In other parts of India, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated as a festival of love between friends. Friends tie Rakhi on each other’s wrist as a symbol of their love and friendship.
Raksha Bandhan is also celebrated by the armed forces, with soldiers tying Rakhi on each other’s wrist as a symbol of their brotherhood and camaraderie.
Traditional food and sweets are an integral part of Raksha Bandhan celebrations. Sisters prepare special dishes for their brothers and offer them sweets and savories. Some of the popular Rakhi sweets include laddoos, barfis, and pedas.
Rakhi Designs and Types
Rakhi designs and types have evolved over the years, and today, there are a variety of options to choose from. Some of the popular Rakhi designs include traditional thread Rakhis, gold and silver Rakhis, pearl Rakhis, and fancy Rakhis with stones and beads. Some sisters even make their own Rakhis, adding a personal touch to the festival.
In recent years, eco-friendly Rakhis have gained popularity. These Rakhis are made of natural materials such as jute, cotton, and silk, and are biodegradable.
