As sibling relationships can be difficult at the best of times. But sacred Hindu tradition makes the room for strengthening family ties Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan. Which is one of the oldest festivals in the Hindu calendar.
This celebrated by millions around the world. Originating as a festival between brothers and sisters, the family promise of protection is renewed in annual celebrations. The Raksha bandhan translates from Sanskrit as “bond of protection, responsibility, and care”.
When to celebrate Rakhi 2023?
The festival is celebrated in the Hindu month of Shravana. Which spans July and August, and always coincides with a full moon.
The celebration for 2023 falls between August 30 and 31 and last year it was celebrated on August 11.
Every year, the Gregorian date changes because the Hindu calendar follows the lunar cycle.
What is the meaning behind the tradition?
The Hindu epic Mahabharata tells the story of Lord Krishna and his friend Draupadi.
Lord Krishna cuts his finger on a sacred discus in this ancient story and Draupadi bandages the wound with the end of her sari.
He promised her eternal protection in return for her kindness and in later stories kept that promise.
Following this origin story, sisters continue the tradition by tying sacred threads (or rakhis) around their brothers’ wrists.
How is Raksha Bandhan celebrated?
It is customary to fast on this day, although it is not obligatory on the celebrants. Fasting considered a blessing for one’s siblings and wishing them a long and healthy life.
The central to this ritual is the Pooja Thali, a devotional plate adorned with rolls, diyas, sweets, rice grains and the essential rakhis.
Sisters rest on their brother’s forehead and pray by tying a religious thread around their wrists. In return they offered gifts and vows of protection.
Modern Traditions of Rakhi
The festival has expanded in recent times to include those without siblings and now includes general themes of loyalty and love between family and even friends. Therefore, in this regard Rakhi designs have evolved with various options.
Eco Rakhi (from £5.25 on Etsy) made from hemp fiber herb and rudraksha seed by “sustainable sisters” Janvi and Pavani.
Each nonprofit package is accompanied by a wildflower seed paper note that can be planted with proceeds shared between WWF and other charities.
Blessings of Raksha Bandhan
Siblings or friends wish each other happiness and luck in the future. Common messages that are often used includes:
May you always be safe and protected from harm. I love you, my dear brother. Happy Raksha Bandhan! I pray that our love relationship continues to grow stronger.
May the bond of love between us always be strong.
Happy Raksha Bandhan to you!
I wish this Raksha Bandhan brings you all the happiness and success in whatever you do. Happy Raksha Bandhan Bhaiya (Brother).
On this Raksha Bandhan, I want to tell you that you are the best brother in the world and I love you. Happy Raksha Bandhan Bhai.