Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi, is a Hindu festival celebrated across India and Nepal. The festival is celebrated on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Shravana, which falls in the month of August.
The word 'Raksha Bandhan' is derived from two Sanskrit words 'Raksha' meaning protection and 'Bandhan' meaning bond. The festival is all about celebrating the bond between a brother and a sister. On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread called 'Rakhi' on their brother's wrist and pray for their well-being. In return, brothers pledge to protect their sisters and give them gifts.
Significance of Raksha Bandhan
The festival of Raksha Bandhan signifies the strong bond between brothers and sisters. It is a celebration of love, trust, and mutual respect. The Rakhi thread symbolizes the bond of love and protection that sisters tie on their brother's wrist. Brothers, in turn, promise to protect their sisters from all kinds of evils and dangers. The festival also celebrates the unique relationship between siblings and the lifelong bond that they share.
Religious Beliefs and Stories
There are several religious beliefs and stories associated with the festival of Raksha Bandhan. According to Hindu mythology, there are several instances where Rakhi played a significant role in protecting people from harm.
One such story is the legend of Lord Krishna and Draupadi. According to the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna cut his finger while handling sugarcane. Draupadi, who was nearby, tore a piece of her sari and tied it around Lord Krishna's finger to stop the bleeding. Lord Krishna, touched by her gesture, promised to protect her from all kinds of harm. Later, during the battle of Kurukshetra, Lord Krishna fulfilled his promise and protected Draupadi from the evil Kauravas.
Another popular story is that of King Bali and Goddess Laxmi. According to this legend, King Bali was a generous and powerful king who had conquered all the three worlds. Goddess Laxmi, who is the goddess of wealth, went to King Bali and tied a Rakhi on his wrist. King Bali was so touched by her gesture that he asked her what she wanted in return. Goddess Laxmi asked for the release of her husband, Lord Vishnu, who had been captured by King Bali. King Bali agreed to her request, and Lord Vishnu was released. Since then, Raksha Bandhan has been celebrated as a symbol of the bond between brothers and sisters and the promise of protection.
Rituals of Raksha Bandhan
The celebrations of Raksha Bandhan begin with sisters performing an Aarti of their brothers and tying a Rakhi on their wrist. Sisters also apply a tilak on their brother's forehead and offer sweets and gifts. In return, brothers give gifts to their sisters and promise to protect them from all kinds of harm.
The festival is also celebrated with great fervor in temples, where priests tie Rakhi on the wrists of devotees and offer special prayers. People also visit their relatives and friends to exchange Rakhi and gifts.
Conclusion
Raksha Bandhan is a significant festival in India that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. The festival signifies the love, trust, and protection that siblings share. The Rakhi thread is a symbol of the bond that sisters tie on their brother's wrist and the promise of protection that brothers make. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy across India and Nepal, and it is a time for families to come together and strengthen their relationships.