Rakshabandhan celebrates the eternal and deeply loving bond between brothers and sisters. The essence of this festival lies in the meaningful rituals and ceremonies performed.
As we prepare for Rakhi 2024, let us understand the traditional Rakshabandhan puja vidhi and rituals to celebrate this day:
Preparations Before Rakhi Puja
- A day before, buy colorful sacred rakhi threads, sweets, gifts items, puja platter etc. for the rituals.
- On Rakhi day, wake up early, bathe and wear new traditional clothes.
- Assemble for puja - rakhi, roli, rice grains, diya, chawal, flowers, sweets and other ritualistic items.
- Light an earthen diya and place it on the puja area facing south. Apply roli or kumkum tilak on the diya.
- Prepare offerings of sweets, fruits and flowers for gods. Sit facing north or east for the puja.
Rakhi Puja Vidhi Step-By-Step
Step 1 - Light the Auspicious Diya
- The sister begins the puja by lighting an earthen diya, the symbol of enlightenment and goodness.
- This ritual marks the start of the festivities by eliminating evil and bringing in prosperity.
Step 2 - Invoke the Gods
- Chant the auspicious Swasthana mantra to call upon gods and goddesses to bless the ceremony.
“Swasthanam Bhavan Aahvaanam Sah Samarpayami”
Step 3 - Offer Flowers to Gods
- Offer fragrant flowers like lotus, champa, roses to gods as a mark of respect and gratitude.
- Flowers signify purity, fragrance, beauty and their offering brings peace.
Step 4 - Perform Brother's Aarti
- Perform the traditional aarti of your brother with a small lamp. Circulate the lighted lamp around his face.
- Ring the bell and offer prayers for his long life, good health and prosperity.
Step 5 - Apply Tilak on Brother's Forehead
- Apply a tilak on your brother’s forehead with roli-chawal or sandalwood-kumkum.
- This holds spiritual significance, activating virtues, wisdom and concentration.
Step 6 - Tie Sacred Rakhi on Brother's Wrist
- Take the rakhi thread and move it in circular motions around the diya flame. This energizes it.
- Tie the rakhi on your brother’s right wrist while chanting Rakshabandhan mantras and prayers.
- Wish for his safety, wellness and prosperity. Your brother should extend his wrist towards you.
Step 7 - Brother Vows Protection
- The brother gently pours puffed rice into your cupped hands. This symbolizes his lifelong vow to provide food and nourishment.
- He then holds your hands and promises to protect you always. You offer your blessings in return.
Step 8 - Perform Brother's Aarti Again
- Perform the aarti once more after tying rakhi and recite prayers. The significance is enhanced after tying the rakhi.
- Offer rice grains, flowers and sweets to gods post the aarti seeking their blessings.
Step 9 - Exchange Gifts
- The brother presents you with rakhi gifts as a token of his love. Common gifts include money, clothes, jewelry, sweets etc.
- As a sister, you can present your brother with gifts too. Traditionally, sisters gave home cooked food.
- Exchange hugs, good wishes and enjoy the festivities.
Following these rituals with dedication fulfills the true spirit of Rakshabandhan. May the sacred festival enhance the bond between all brothers and sisters!