Rakhi festival is an auspicious occasion celebrated by Hindus all over the world. It is a day dedicated to brother- sister affection and love. On this day, sisters tie a rakhi (a special string) on their brothers' wrist and pray for their well-being.
In return, brothers vow to protect their sisters from all harm. The festival signifies the strong bond of affection between siblings. This festival is also a time for exchanging gifts and sweets. Celebrate this special festival with your siblings by exchanging gifts and engaging in fun activities together. Rakhi is sure to bring happiness and joy into your lives!
Rakhi is an annual Hindu festival that celebrates the bond of brother and sisterhood
The traditional festival honors the relationship between brothers and sisters. Sisters tie colorful rakhis (thread bracelets) on their brothers' wrists, and pray for their well-being.
The word “rakhi” means “protection”. The bond of love between brother and sister is symbolized by the rakhi. On this day, sisters perform a special puja ceremony for their brothers, offer them sweets and bless them with gifts. The festival also marks a renewed vow of brotherhood between brothers and sisters. In some parts of India, people also exchange money as a gesture of goodwill.
History of Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi
The festival of rakhi or raksha bandhan is celebrated on the last day of the Hindu calendar month of Shravan. In mahabharat there is a fascinating story of Lord Krishna and king Sishupal. Shishupal was adamant and disrespectful towards lord krishna . He started and kept on abusing Krishna .
Even with some the warnings from the courtiers he did stop to abuse. Eventually lord krishana beheaded him for his impudence by using his Sudarshan Chakra but the finger of lord krishna got a cut and his finger started bleeding. Having seen so ,Draupadi bandaged his finger with a small piece of cloth torn from her scarf. Having seen Draupadi’s care , lord Krishna promised her that he would always protect her from all the troubles .
There is one more story in the history of Rakhi Festival when Rani Karnavati sent Rakhi to Emperor Humayun .After the demise of her Rana Sanga, Karnavati was the official of Mewar . She managed all the official operations of the kingdom in the name of her elder son Vikramjeet.Once Bahadur Shah from Gujarat attacked Mewar.
The Queen began seeking support from other princely states. Finally they agreed to take on Shah. At the unfaithful time of Mewar, Karnavati also called on Humayun for help. She sent him a rakhi as a token of her sisterhood and sought protection.
Rakhi in other countries
Apart from India, Nepal is known as the only hindu country in the world. People happily celebrate the auspicious and long awaited festival with the same zeal as the Indians families do. All the Families start their day with worship of God and follow their own rakhi rituals as per their tradition.
Apart from india and nepal , there are some countries in Gulf such as Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia, etc where this festival is celebrate . As there are a large number of Indian people who have shifted to these countries for business or jobs. So, it has normal trend to visit these countries.
Importance of Rakshan Bandhan or rakhi
This festival is a festival of unconditional faith the sister has in her brother. A sister prays to God for his brother's long life. Sisters also apply a ‘tilak of saffron and kumkum ‘ on the forehead of the brothers.
A brother on this day promises to keep his sister happy and protected, the brothers also offer his sister flowers , cakes , sweets and gifts. Many delicious dishes are cooked at home and all the family members get together and wish each other well.
Conclusion
Rakhi festival is a reminder of the strong bond between brothers and sisters. It is a time to celebrate the history and culture of India while strengthening familial ties.
Brothers and sisters everywhere should take this opportunity to strengthen their relationships by spending time together, sharing memories, and simply enjoying one another’s company.
