Rakhsha Bandhan or better known as ‘Rakhi’ is one of the most popular Hindu tradition in India, signifying the love and bond shared between a brother and a sister. In English, Raksha Bandhan literally translates to the bond of protection, obligation or care’.
According to the Hindu calendar, Raksha Bandhan falls on the last day of the lunar calendar month of Shravan. In 2022, Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated tomorrow, that is 11th August (Thursday); Muhurat for tying Rakhi has been declared as 10:38 AM to 07:05 PM.
The tradition of Raksha Bandhan is observed as a symbol of duty between brothers and sisters. The occasion is meant to celebrate any type of brother-sister relationship between men and women who may not be biologically related. The shortened name of this tradition, that is ‘Rakhi’ comes from the beautiful string that is tied by the sister on her brother’s wrist on this day. Rakhis come in vibrant colours, shapes and decoration that look beautiful and majestic.
Traditions in India are not just simple practices but each carries an in depth meaning, cases and background stories supporting these practices. Raksha Bandhan too has alot of facts and interesting stories. Let’s throw some light on a few of these surprising facts about Raksha Bandhan:
This tradition is mainly followed in certain states of India like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Gujarat where this rakhi is called The Lumba Rakhi. The Luma Rakhi represents that the family will always protect the sister-in-law. This rakhi makes the bond between the sister and sister-in-law stronger, and they are tied in a bond of love with the Lumba Rakhi. This gorgeous rakhi is also referred to as Bhabhi rakhi, and it also strengthens the relationship between the married couple.
According to Rabindranath Tagore, Rakhi is not only a festival of the siblings but it’s a celebration of mankind and of humanity. He promoted the concept of unity and harmony among all members of the society. He believed that it is the responsibility of all the members of the society to help and protect each other and encourage a harmonious social life. For him Raksha Bandhan festival is the celebration of fellow feeling and concern. Especially in today’s context Tagore’s vision is very much applicable as it teaches us to think and care for others.
According to the story, Lord Krishna once cut his hand while kite flying. Seeing this Draupadi immediately tore a piece of cloth from her saree and tied to Krishna. In return for this Lord Krishna promised to protect Draupadi at any condition. Later Lord Krishna protected Draupadi during her Cheer Haran.
Believe it or not, the most expensive rakhi up for sale in Surat, Gujarat is worth INR. 5,00,000! ‘The Rakhi prepared by us can be worn as an ornament on Raksha Bandhan’, said the owner and creator of this amazing rakhi.
As the story goes, Rani Karnavati, widowed queen of Rana Sanga, realized that she could not protect her territories Chittorgarh from invasion of Sultan of Gujrat, Bahadur Shah, and she sent a Rakhi to Humayun asking for his help. Humayun immediately set off, but by then the Sultan had already conquered the fortress and Rani had immolated herself as Jauhar. Humayun restored Karnavati’s son, Vikramjit, to the throne.
All of the above facts fully support the real meaning of Raksha Bandhan and showcase us the beauty, love and strong bonds that Indians share and express these emotions in the form of these beautiful traditions and festivals that are now spread across borders and seas.
P.S. Planning a rakhi surprise for your brother or sister? Head over to the Milkbasket Online Delivery App where you can order beautiful Rakhis, chocolate and sweet gift packs and so much more that will be delivered by 7 AM, the very next day. By the way, you can order till midnight!
꧁ Happy Raksha Bandhan Everyone! ꧂
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