Raksha Bandhan 2024: The history and cultural significance of the Rakhi festival
Aug 16, 2024, 11:59 IST
Raksha Bandhan, often called Rakhi, is a cherished Hindu festival that honours the special bond between brothers and sisters. Celebrated on the full moon day of Shravana, typically falling in August, the festival’s name translates to “the knot of protection”.
The central ritual involves sisters tying a sacred thread, or rakhi, around their brothers’ wrists, symbolising their prayers for their brothers' well-being. In return, brothers vow to protect their sisters throughout their lives.
Raksha Bandhan's roots are deep within ancient Hindu scriptures and folklore. Two prominent tales illustrate the festival's significance:
Krishna and Draupadi: One of the most well-known stories comes from the Mahabharata. When Lord Krishna injured his finger, Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, tore a piece of her saree to bandage his wound. Moved by her selfless act, Krishna vowed to protect her—a promise he fulfilled during the infamous incident in the Kaurava court, where he miraculously extended her saree to safeguard her dignity.
Lakshmi and King Bali: Another important legend is that of Goddess Lakshmi and King Bali. After Lord Vishnu defeated Bali, Lakshmi tied a rakhi to the king, symbolically making him her brother. In return, Bali granted her a wish, allowing Vishnu to return to his divine abode. This story highlights the rakhi's role in forming protective and familial bonds beyond blood ties.
Raksha Bandhan extends beyond the traditional brother-sister relationship, embodying love, duty and protection across various relationships. It is celebrated not just in India, but also across South Asia, including in Nepal, where it is known as Janai Purnima. Each community has added its unique customs to this tradition.
The regional variations exist within India as well. In West Bengal, it is known as Jhulan Purnima, a time when prayers are offered to Lord Krishna and Radha. In Maharashtra, the festival coincides with Narali Pournima—a day dedicated to the sea god Varuna, when offerings are made to the sea. In North India, kite flying becomes a popular activity during Rakshabandhan, symbolising the joy and exuberance of the occasion.
The festival strengthens family and social connections, prompting people to express their love and commitment to one another. In modern times, Raksha Bandhan has evolved to include cousins and even friends, highlighting platonic love and mutual respect across different communities and religions.
More than just a festival, Raksha Bandhan is a celebration of relationships. Its origins, steeped in ancient traditions and stories, continue to inspire millions, making it a beloved occasion that reinforces familial and social bonds across cultures. The festival’s true essence lies in its power to unite people, transcending blood ties and fostering a spirit of togetherness.
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The central ritual involves sisters tying a sacred thread, or rakhi, around their brothers’ wrists, symbolising their prayers for their brothers' well-being. In return, brothers vow to protect their sisters throughout their lives.
Historical origins of Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan's roots are deep within ancient Hindu scriptures and folklore. Two prominent tales illustrate the festival's significance:
Krishna and Draupadi: One of the most well-known stories comes from the Mahabharata. When Lord Krishna injured his finger, Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, tore a piece of her saree to bandage his wound. Moved by her selfless act, Krishna vowed to protect her—a promise he fulfilled during the infamous incident in the Kaurava court, where he miraculously extended her saree to safeguard her dignity.
Lakshmi and King Bali: Another important legend is that of Goddess Lakshmi and King Bali. After Lord Vishnu defeated Bali, Lakshmi tied a rakhi to the king, symbolically making him her brother. In return, Bali granted her a wish, allowing Vishnu to return to his divine abode. This story highlights the rakhi's role in forming protective and familial bonds beyond blood ties.
Cultural significance of Raksha Bandhan
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The regional variations exist within India as well. In West Bengal, it is known as Jhulan Purnima, a time when prayers are offered to Lord Krishna and Radha. In Maharashtra, the festival coincides with Narali Pournima—a day dedicated to the sea god Varuna, when offerings are made to the sea. In North India, kite flying becomes a popular activity during Rakshabandhan, symbolising the joy and exuberance of the occasion.
The festival strengthens family and social connections, prompting people to express their love and commitment to one another. In modern times, Raksha Bandhan has evolved to include cousins and even friends, highlighting platonic love and mutual respect across different communities and religions.
More than just a festival, Raksha Bandhan is a celebration of relationships. Its origins, steeped in ancient traditions and stories, continue to inspire millions, making it a beloved occasion that reinforces familial and social bonds across cultures. The festival’s true essence lies in its power to unite people, transcending blood ties and fostering a spirit of togetherness.