The festival is formed of two words, “Raksha” and “Bandhan.” As per the Sanskrit language, the occasion means – the tie or knot of security. Here “Raksha” stands for protection, and “Bandhan” signifies the verb to tie. It is recognized enthusiastically in all parts of India, especially in the West and North.
It represents the true spirit of India’s rich cultural heritage. Together, the festival symbolizes the eternal love of the brother-sister relationship that does not include blood relationships only. Raksha Bandhan celebrates the purity and sanctity of the bond between the siblings. Thus, this ceremony is marked by the undying support between siblings. It’s a vow of protection of each other under any alarming event.
How Is Rakhi Celebrated?
Raksha Bandhan is one of the most auspicious festivals devoted to the bond between sister and brother. On this day, a sister firstly does the aarti, puts a tilak on her brother’s forehead, and then ties the holy thread on his wrist. To celebrate the love and care, the brother gives gifts to his sisters, and then she offers sweets to her brother.
It resembles the bond of affection and respect in their relationship. This festival is glorified in the Hindu community across the country with zeal and enthusiasm. The history of Raksha Bandhan is connected to Mahabharata. It is acknowledged that once Draupadi tied a strip of cloth to block the bleeding hand of Lord Krishna. This gesture of Draupadi won Shri Krishna’s eternal blessings. And eventually, when the Pandavas failed to protect her honor upon being disgraced by Dushasana, Shri Krishna’s grace guarded her. Thus Shri Krishna honored Draupadi’s gesture and safeguarded her against the enemies. In turn, she was awarded sacred protection by Krishna.
Significance Of Raksha Bandhan
The concept of Raksha Bandhan is mainly for signifying protection. The first knot of Rakhi is tied for the brother’s long life, the second knot is for the long life of oneself, and the third knot is to guard the strong bond between brother and sister. The brothers, in return, swear their sisters to act as their protectors for their whole life and present a return gift.
This bond does not have to be between blood relatives – a girl might assume a boy as her brother via the tying of a Rakhi. Like nowadays, friends also tie Rakhis to resemble their bond like that of siblings. This ritual not only strengthens the bond of love but also surpasses the boundaries of the family. Rakhis are also tied on the wrists of close friends and neighbors, highlighting the love and attachment among each other. The bonding between a brother and a sister is simply unique and is beyond explanation in words. The relationship between siblings is exceptional and is given prestige in every region of the world.
This day not only deepens the love and care relationship between brother and sister but also bridges the gap in their lives. The optimistic Rakhi thread holds more importance than a thread. It signifies brotherly and sisterly fondness and tenderness towards one another. Raksha Bandhan is a day that reminds brothers and sisters of their values and enhances their bond.