Raksha Bandhan, also known as the festival of Rakhi, is a cherished annual celebration that highlights the profound bond between brothers and sisters. The festival takes place in the Hindu month of Shravan, typically in August. During this special occasion, sisters tie a sacred thread, called a rakhi, around their brothers’ wrists and pray for their well-being and prosperity. The ritual also includes applying tilak on the brother’s forehead, followed by the exchange of sweets and gifts.
Date and Timing
Raksha Bandhan, symbolizing "safety" and "bond," is observed on the full moon day, or Purnima, in the month of Shravan. This year, the festival falls on August 19. According to Drik Panchang, the Raksha Bandhan thread ceremony will commence at 1:30 PM and continue for seven hours and 48 minutes, concluding at 9:08 PM on August 19.
Bhadra End Time: 1:30 PM
Bhadra Punchha: 9:51 PM to 10:53 AM
Bhadra Mukha: 10:53 AM to 12:37 PM
Purnima Tithi Begins: 3:04 AM on August 19
Purnima Tithi Ends: 11:55 PM on August 19
Historical Background
Hindu mythology narrates that during the Mahabharata era, Lord Krishna accidentally injured his finger while handling the Sudarshan Chakra. Draupadi, moved by his plight, tore a piece of her garment to bandage the wound. Touched by her gesture, Lord Krishna vowed to protect her from any danger. This promise manifested during the Chirharan episode, where Lord Krishna intervened to shield Draupadi from humiliation when the Kauravas attempted to disrobe her.
Significance
The ritual of Raksha Bandhan involves a sister applying tilak to her brother’s forehead before tying the rakhi on his wrist, signifying her prayers for his health and prosperity. In return, the brother expresses his gratitude by offering her a gift. In contemporary times, the practice of tying rakhi has extended beyond siblings to include friends and distant relatives, reflecting the inclusive and universal spirit of the festival.
