Rakshabandhan has a rich cultural history with various ancient legends explaining the origin of this tradition celebrating sibling bonds. Let us explore some key mythological tales behind this festival:
1. Lord Yama and Yamuna
One of the earliest legends traces the start of Rakshabandhan to Lord Yama, the God of Death, and his sister Yamuna.
Yamuna was anxious about her brother's well-being and longevity. She tied a rakhi on Yama's wrist and prayed for his immortality. Moved by her love, Yama declared that any brother who receives a rakhi from his sister on this day will attain a long life.
This story established the tradition of sisters tying rakhis on their brothers.
2. Krishna and Draupadi
When Lord Krishna hurt his finger while fighting the evil King Shishupal, Draupadi tore a piece from her saree and tied it around his finger to stop the bleeding.
In return, Krishna promised to protect her forever. He kept his word during Draupadi's cheer-haran by providing her with an unending stream of sarees.
This legend emphasizes sibling protection signified by the rakhi thread.
3. King Bali and Goddess Laxmi
According to folklore, when demon King Bali conquered the heavens, Goddess Laxmi sought the help of Lord Vishnu.
He appeared before Bali disguised as a Brahmin boy. Laxmi tied a rakhi on Bali, declaring him her brother. Blessed by her protection, Bali gave the Brahmin boy a gift - three steps of land - which led to his downfall.
This story glorifies the power of the rakhi to make one invincible.
4. Alexander the Great and King Porus
When Alexander invaded India in 326 BC, his wife Roxana feared for his life and sent a sacred thread to King Porus seeking protection for her husband in battle.
Honoring the rakhi, Porus refrained from killing Alexander in war. This helped forge a friendship between two warring kings.
This emphasizes how rakhi can foster harmonious bonds.
5. Santoshi Maa Vrat
It is said worshipping Santoshi Maa and fasting on Rakshabandhan fulfills brothers' duties to sisters and grants them marital bliss.
Sisters also pray for their brothers' longevity and success on this day.
This underlines the spiritual and emotional significance of Rakhi for gender harmony in society.
From these varied mythological tales, it is evident that since ancient times, Rakshabandhan has celebrated the selfless love between brothers and sisters. The legends reinforce faith in the power of this special bond.
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