Unbreakable Bonds: Raksha Bandhan’s Message of Love and Unity
Raksha Bandhan is a Hindu festival that is dedicated to the special bond which is shared by brothers and sisters. The term “Raksha Bandhan” literally means “the bond of protection.”
During this day, sisters tie a sacred thread called a “Rakhi” around the wrist of their brothers which becomes a symbol of love and prayers for their brother’s well-being. Brothers vow to protect their sisters in return and give them gifts.
This year the the auspicious ceremony of Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 30, 2023. The time for the thread ceremony is after 09:01 PM.
Significance:
Raksha Bandhan is not just celebrated among biological siblings. It can be celebrated by cousins and other family members. The festival emphasizes the importance of the bond between siblings. It also aims to encourage love, care, and protection among family members.
The festival’s name comes from the Sanskrit words “Raksha” meaning “protection” and “Bandhan” meaning “bond” or “tie.” The celebration has become more grand in recent years. People from different religious and cultural backgrounds are also coming together to celebrate this festival.
The festival had a different kind of significance in the ancient times. It is believed that queens and women in ancient India used to send Rakhis to the neighboring kings. This was regarded as a plea for protection during times of war.
History:
The exact origins of the festival are not well-documented. However, one can read stories about how ancient queens used to send Rakhis to the neighboring kings to ask for protection. There are a few mythological tales associated with Raksha Bandhan. Here are some of them.
Indra and Indrani
Indra was facing some issues against the demon king, Bali. Indrani tied a protective cotton thread, which she got from Lord Vishnu, around Indra’s wrist to act as a form of protection.
Krishna and Draupadi
Lord Krishna once accidentally cut his finger on the Sudarshan Chakra. Draupadi tore a piece of her saree and tied it around Krishna’s finger to stop the bleeding. This made Lord Krishna promise to protect her whenever she needed help.
Yama and Yamuna
Yamuna is the sister of the God of Death, Yama. She tied a Rakhi to her brother’s wrist and he stated that any brother who vows to protect his sister after getting a Rakhi will be blessed with immortality.
King Bali and Goddess Lakshmi
King Bali was a kind and generous ruler. Impressed with his benevolence, Goddess Lakshmi took the form of a Brahmin woman and tied a sacred thread (rakhi) on King Bali’s wrist, as a form of protection. In return, King Bali decided to protect the Brahmin woman, not knowing that it was Goddess. This story symbolizes the unconditional love between a brother and sister.
The Rituals and Traditions:
Rakhi Tying: Sisters frequently start their days by dressing up and making the rakhi. Traditionally, the rakhi is a colourful thread covered in elaborate patterns, beads, and perhaps even tiny ornaments. Sisters wrap a light in aarti (a custom) around their brothers before fastening the rakhi.
Exchange of Gifts: Brothers show their love for their sisters by giving them gifts. These gifts can be anything from candies and chocolates to individualised items. This conversation serves as a metaphor for the respect and concern siblings have for one another.
Commitment of Protection: When tying the rakhi, the brother makes a commitment to shield his sister from any damage or difficulties. This pledge is a treasured commitment that permeates their union.
Raksha Bandhan is more than just a ceremony; it’s a time to honour the special bond that exists between siblings. It emphasises the value of safety, love, and caring in a world that frequently calls for these traits. Rakhi ties siblings together, regardless of time or space, by weaving a tapestry of feelings, memories, and vows. This event serves as a reminder that our connections are important and should be nurtured, and that sibling ties are treasures that should be cherished always.
