-by Bhavya Sinha BA(JMC) 3
Raksha Bandhan—Sanskrit for “the bond of protection”—is an annual Hindu festival celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) of the lunar month Shravana, typically in August. Sisters tie a rakhi (sacred thread) on their brothers’ wrists while applying a tilak and offering prayers for their well-being. Brothers, in turn, promise protection and often give gifts in return.During the ceremony, a sister ties a rakhi, a sacred thread, on her brother’s right wrist, as she prays for his well-being and longevity; in return, the brother pledges to protect her and traditionally offers gifts or tokens of care. The festival’s name originates from Sanskrit—Raksha meaning protection and Bandhan meaning bond—underscoring its spiritual and cultural significance as a protectorate vow. While deeply rooted in sibling relationships, Raksha Bandhan has evolved to include bonds beyond family—such as friends, cousins, and even spiritual mentors—extending its meaning to embrace broader social unity .
Raksha Bandhan beautifully weaves together emotional, cultural, and spiritual threads—celebrating mutual respect, protection, and unity. Raksha Bandhan is more than a celebration—it’s a heartfelt reminder of love, commitment, and cultural unity.
Whether through modern interpretations or ancient traditions, the essence remains: the bond that transcends blood and celebrates enduring relationships.
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