Reason behind celebration of ‘Rakhi’ in India

India is a land that provides a platform for the celebration of diverse cultural, traditional and religious festivals. The aura created during the festive season is just impeccable and so engaging that it unites even the enemies. When we talk about Hindu festivals the list is endless and loaded with full-fledged wondrous festivals. There is a huge number of festivals in India like Holi, Diwali, Teej, Sankranti, Navratri, Ganeshotsav, Raksha Bandhan and many more. Among all, Raksha Bandhan is a unique festival that celebrates the lovely affection of brothers and sisters throughout the world.

If we look at any festival we will notice that every festival has its root deep in Indian culture which is connected to some spiritual or religious value. So, it is with Raksha Bandhan which has a story linked to it. This festival is celebrated in different states, in different ways and by majority of brothers and sisters especially Hindus and also by non-Hindus in some parts of the country.       

About Rakhi 

Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi is a festival celebrated by Hindu siblings throughout India and siblings staying in other parts of the world. This festival is unique in itself as it highlights the pure bond of love between brothers and sisters. The festival is celebrated on the last day of Shraavan month as per Hindu calendar on the day of Purnima.

The relationship of brother and sister is special as they are people grown up together from childhood and have a deep understanding, care and love for each other which is beyond any condition. They have together seen the ups and down of life, good and bad conditions that family faces right from the school time to college and more.

Mostly brothers and sisters are famous for sharing a notorious bond as they fight, tease and bully each other. But apart from this, there is a hidden feeling of care and love for each other which is truly respectable.   

Importance of Rakhi 

Rakhi is the auspicious occasion in India on which the brother-sister bond is highlighted in different parts of India. Though this is a Hindu festival but as it values the relationship of brother and sister so it is celebrated by every individual irrespective of caste, creed, religion or region. The festival values the feelings of love, care and affection between siblings so it is not only religion bound celebration.   

This festival is also important as it strengthens the brother-sister bond and makes it more strong. It is the time when sister ties thread known as Rakhi on the wrist of brother which denotes her faith in brother and also prays for her brother’s long life, good health and prosperity. On the other, brother gives sister a gift, promise to protect her and care her throughout life as a token of love. 

Story of Raksha Bandhan 

This festival displays the grand culture of India which is rich and extensive and has its origin in our magistical epics and puranas. According to various myths and people’s belief the story of Raksha Bandhan celebration dates back to Dwapaar Yug from the Hindu epic Mahabharat. The ritual was started by Draupadi as per the devotees belief when Lord Krishna cut his finger which started bleeding. Draupadi then without a second thought tore a piece out of her saree and tied it on the finger of Lord Krishna to stop it from bleeding. Lord Krishna in return, promised Draupadi a life-long protection in the hour of need and saved the prestige of Draupadi by wrapping her with unlimited length of saree during ‘Cheerharan Leela’.

Inspired by this incidence, people started celebrating this ritual as Raksha Bandhan and started tying Rakhi on the wrist of brothers.