This article we learn about famous Indian festival "Raksha Bandhan". What is the Raksha Bandhan festival, Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi, is a Hindu festival celebrated in India and other parts of the world to commemorate the bond between brothers and sisters. This festival is celebrated on the 14 moon day of the Hindu month of Shravana, which usually falls in August. Raksha Bandhan is one of the most popular and widely celebrated festivals in India and is a symbol of love, affection, and protection between siblings. Here is a detailed description of the Raksha Bandhan festival in India.
Preparation:
The preparations for Raksha Bandhan begin weeks in advance. Sisters purchase rakhis, which are colorful threads or bands, along with sweets and gifts for their brothers. Rakhis are available in various designs, colors, and materials, ranging from traditional threads and beads to modern and trendy designs. Brothers also purchase gifts for their sisters as a token of love and appreciation.
Rakhi tying ceremony:
On the day of Raksha Bandhan, sisters tie the rakhi on the wrist of their brothers and pray for their well-being and prosperity. The rakhi is considered to be a symbol of protection, and brothers promise to protect and take care of their sisters in all circumstances. Brothers also give gifts to their loving sisters to show of their love and appreciation.
Traditional rituals:
Apart from the rakhi tying ceremony, Raksha Bandhan is also associated with various traditional rituals and customs. Before the rakhi tying ceremony, sisters perform aarti (a traditional Hindu prayer) for their brothers and apply tilak (a red-colored paste) on their forehead. Brothers, in turn, give sweets and gifts to their sisters and promise to protect and support them throughout their life.
Feast:
Raksha Bandhan is also a time for feasting and celebrating with family and friends. After the rakhi tying ceremony, families gather for a traditional feast, which includes a variety of sweets, snacks, and delicacies. Sisters prepare special dishes for their brothers, and brothers shower their sisters with gifts and love.
Symbolism:
Raksha Bandhan is not just about the bond between siblings but also about the spirit of love, affection, and protection. The festival symbolizes the importance of family values, unity, and brotherhood. It also reflects the traditional Indian values of respecting and honoring relationships.
Modern celebration:
While the traditional form of Raksha Bandhan remains popular, modern celebrations have also emerged in recent years. With the rise of social media, siblings who are living apart can still celebrate the festival virtually by sending Rakhis and gifts online. In some parts of India, Raksha Bandhan is also celebrated between friends, colleagues, and neighbors, irrespective of their gender or age.
In conclusion
Raksha Bandhan is a Hindu festival celebrated in India and other parts of the world to commemorate the bond between brothers and sisters. The festival is marked by the" Rakhi" tying ceremony, traditional rituals, feast, and symbolism of love, affection, and protection. Raksha Bandhan is a symbol of the traditional Indian values of respecting and honoring relationships and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy by people of all ages and genders.