It’s enjoyable to learn about various cultural festivals held around the world. As a Multicultural company, Day Translations appreciated and loves to know more about people and the world. It is even more significant to discover the history and meaning behind each. Today, we delve into Raksha Bandhan, a Hindu festival celebrated primarily in Northern India.
The term Raksha Bandhan which originates from Sanskrit translates to “bond of protection.” It is observed on the full moon day of the Hindu month Shravana (July/August) which is the fifth month in the Hindu lunar calendar.
This popular Hindu holiday is a celebration highlighting the love between brother and sister. During Raksha Bandhan, a sister ties a rakhi which is a threaded amulet, around her brother’s wrist, as a representation of honoring their relationship.
The bracelet is a symbol of the brother’s oath to protect his sister throughout her life. She also prays for her brother’s long life and prosperity. The brother then gives his sister a gift, signifying his acceptance of his duty.
The Origins of Raksha Bandhan
There are several accounts of how the traditions of Raksha Bandhan began. One of the most popular stories comes from the Indian epic poem entitled ‘The Mahabharata.’ The story follows Lord Krishna who accidentally cut his finger.
Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas tore the corner of her sari to prevent Lord Krishna’s wrist from bleeding. This created a bond between brother and sister. After, grateful for this act, he promised to return the favor and protect her as long as they both lived.
Other popular accounts tell the tale of King Bali who once approached Lord Vishnu to protect his kingdom from enemies. Lord Vishnu decided to help King Bali and was set to leave home. However, the Goddess Lakshmi didn’t want Lord Vishnu to leave.
She disguised herself as a Brahmin woman and entered Bali’s home asking for shelter. While there she tied a thread on Bali’s wrist and told him why she came. Touched by this gesture of sincerity Bali told Vishnu that he should return home with Lakshmi.
Though these accounts vary, the premise remains the same; the Raksha Bandhan celebration is a message of the brotherhood and sisterhood that can be recognized amongst people globally. Additionally, Rakhi are often tied between gurus, friends, and spouses.
Preparations for Raksha Bandhan
The preparation for Raksha Bandhan typically begins weeks before the actual celebration. Before the full moon rises, sisters are required to collect various items for the ritual. Among the items are rakhi threads, incense sticks (agarbattis), turmeric powder paste (kumkum powder or tilak), and sweets. The items are gathered on a large plate called thali.
Rakhi’s of different colors symbolize different relationships. The color white signifies friendship, red represents love and loyalty and orange or yellow symbolizes sibling love. While the girls prepare to make their unique rakhis, the boys go out to buy gifts for their sisters.
To add to the festivities, houses are decorated with vibrant homemade flowers. Greeting cards are also a special part of the celebration. Hindu families typically send cards to their relatives all over the globe wishing them a happy Raksha Bandhan.
The Day of the Raksha Bandhan Celebration
On the morning of the celebration, aarti plates that consist of rakhis, Diya, sweets, and tilak are put together. First, sisters customarily perform arati by lighting an oil lamp and offering it to the family deity. After each family member makes offerings to their deities, then the brother and sister sit on the floor while facing each other.
The sister puts tilak on the brother’s forehead, then the rakhi is tied to his wrist. Once the rakhi is tied the sister traditionally feeds sweets to her brother. Then the brother feeds sweets to his sister. Throughout the ceremony, sacred verses from Hindu scriptures are spoken. In the end, the brother presents his sister with the gift he bought or made for her.
Final Thoughts
Similar to any tradition, this celebration has grown to represent more than just a bond between siblings. Raksha Bandhan has become a global celebration of family, friends, spouses, coworkers, and various other bonds.
The sentiments expressed through this beautiful occasion are representative of honoring the bonds with those you hold dear to your heart. It is a celebration to remind us to be grateful for strong connections, family or otherwise.
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