Raksha Bandhan in 2025 celebrates on Saturday, August 9, 2025. This festival takes place on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Shravan month in the Hindu calendar, which usually falls in August. The date changes every year based on the lunar calendar.
What is Raksha Bandhan?
Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi, is an important Indian festival that celebrates the deep bond between brothers and sisters.
- Meaning: The word “Raksha” means protection, and “Bandhan” means bond — together, it signifies a bond of protection.
- Tradition: On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread (rakhi) on their brothers’ wrists and pray for their well-being. In return, brothers give gifts and promise to protect their sisters throughout life.
- Modern Scope: Today, the festival is not limited to biological siblings and is also observed between cousins, friends, and even as a gesture of respect towards community protectors such as soldiers and police officers.
Historical and Mythological Stories Behind Raksha Bandhan
Lord Krishna and Draupadi
In the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna injured his finger during a battle. Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, tore a piece of her saree and tied it around Krishna’s finger to stop the bleeding. Moved by her act, Krishna promised to protect Draupadi forever.
Rani Karnavati and Emperor Humayun
During the medieval period, Rani Karnavati of Mewar sent a rakhi to Mughal Emperor Humayun when her kingdom was threatened by Bahadur Shah of Gujarat. Honoring the rakhi, Humayun set aside political differences and came to her aid.
Yama and Yamuna
In ancient legend, Yamuna tied a rakhi to her brother Yama, the god of death. Touched by her affection, Yama granted her immortality and declared that any brother who receives a rakhi will be blessed with long life and prosperity.
Traditional Rituals of Raksha Bandhan
- Sisters prepare a plate (puja thali) with rakhi, lamp, vermilion, rice grains, and sweets.
- The sister applies a tilak on the brother’s forehead, ties the rakhi on his wrist, and feeds him sweets.
- The brother gives gifts or money and pledges lifelong care and protection.
- Families gather, share festive meals, and celebrate together.
Modern-Day Celebrations and Cultural Impact
Raksha Bandhan has expanded beyond family boundaries to represent universal brotherhood.
- Friends and distant relatives also exchange rakhis.
- Many schools and community organizations hold rakhi-making competitions.
- NGOs and citizens tie rakhis to soldiers, police officers, and frontline workers to honor their service.
- With changing times, people living far away often send rakhis and gifts through courier or celebrate virtually.
Raksha Bandhan and the Indian Constitution
The values of Raksha Bandhan reflect ideals in the Indian Constitution:
- Fraternity: Promoting unity and brotherhood among people.
- Unity in Diversity: Celebrated across regions, languages, and religions.
- Gender Respect and Equality: Symbolizing mutual respect and care between brothers and sisters.
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