Rakshabandhan 2024: Meaning, Significance, History and Celebrations Explained

Rakshabandhan is one of the most beloved festivals celebrated across India. The festival celebrates the cherished bond between brothers and sisters.

As we prepare to commemorate Rakhi 2024 on 19th August, let us understand the meaning, significance, history and celebrations that make this festival so special:

What is Rakshabandhan?

Raksha bandhan is a Hindu festival that celebrates the eternal love between brothers and sisters. The word ‘Rakshabandhan’ means ‘a bond of protection’.

On this auspicious day, sisters tie a sacred thread called ‘Rakhi’ on their brother’s wrist as a symbol of their affection. In return, brothers vow to protect their sisters and gift them presents.

Rakhi threads come in vibrant colors and designs. Along with the Rakhi, the rituals involve aarti, applying tilak and exchanging gifts and sweets.

History and Origin of Rakshabandhan

Several myths and historical tales are associated with the origin of Rakshabandhan:

As per Hindu mythology, when Lord Indra was defeated in a battle with the demons, Goddess Lakshmi tied a sacred thread on Lord Indra’s wrist to bestow him with powers. Indra was able to defeat the demons and recover Amaravati.
According to the legend of King Bali, Goddess Lakshmi tied a Rakhi on King Bali’s wrist, making him her brother. When Lord Vishnu came to ask for land, Bali kept his promise to protect Lakshmi by gifting land to Vishnu in disguise.
In the Mahabharat era, Lord Krishna got injured during a battle and Draupadi tore a piece of her saree and tied it around Krishna’s wrist to stop the bleeding. Krishna, deeply moved, promised to protect her forever.
Historical accounts say Rani Karnavati, the widowed queen of Chittor, sent a Rakhi to the Mughal King Humayun when under attack by Bahadur Shah. The emperor set off with his troops to protect the queen’s honor.

These legends emphasize the significance of sibling protection that is commemorated during Rakshabandhan.

Significance and Importance of Rakhi

Rakshabandhan is extremely significant for these reasons:

Celebrates Sibling Bond

The festival highlights the beautiful bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters express their love by tying Rakhi threads while brothers promise care and protection.

Symbol of Duty and Affection

Rakhi celebrates the sacred duty of brothers to protect their sisters and the sisters’ unconditional affection for them. Exchanging Rakhis reaffirms commitment to the relationship.

Upholds Family Values

Rakhi fosters values like trust, harmony, and brotherhood – the essence of any family. The feeling of oneness is emphasized through celebrations.

Honors Chivalry

Rakshabandhan honours chivalry and women empowerment as brothers vow to stand up for their sisters’ welfare. This pledges equality and respect.

Strengthen Relationships

The festive vibes, gifts exchange and family time bring siblings closer emotionally. It rekindles bonds across distances.

In today’s times, sisters also gift their brothers on Rakhi and promise to be there for them. The gesture signifies mutual love and lifelong ties.

How is Rakshabandhan Celebrated?

Raksha bandhan is celebrated with much fervor across India. Here are the key rituals:

Purchase of Rakhi

Weeks before Rakhi, colorful sacred threads are bought from shops for the ceremony. Intricately designed rakhis with beads, zari work, quilling art, embroidery etc. can be found.

Ritual Baths

On Rakhi day, siblings wake up early and take ritual baths. Brothers wear new clothes while sisters prepare the puja thali.

Lighting the Diya

The celebrations begin by lighting an earthen diya and offering prayers to Gods amidst chanting of mantras for the well-being of siblings.

Tying of Rakhi

The main ritual involves the sister moving clockwise around the brother and tying the rakhi amulet on his wrist reciting chant s while wishing for his long life.

Aarti and Tilak

The sister then performs aarti of the brother and applies tilak or kumkum on his forehead. Brothers touch the feet of sisters to seek their blessings.