RAKSHA Bandhan is simply known as Rakhi and is one of the most cherished festivals in Hindu culture.
This day is dedicated in celebrating the sacred bond between brothers and sisters.
Suva’s Sanatan Dharam Prachaar Ramayan Mandali president Rakesh Kumar emphasised that on this day, it is traditional for sisters to tie a Rakhi—a sacred thread—around their brothers’ wrists as a symbol of their love.
He said in return, brothers also pledge to protect their sisters and offer gifts as a token of their affection and responsibility.
“Raksha Bandhan carries a deep cultural message and it promotes family values, respect, and emotional closeness among siblings,” Mr Chand explained.
According to indianexpress.com, ‘Raksha’ is derived from the Sanskrit words meaning protection and ‘Bandhan’ meaning bond or tie.
This festival symbolises the love, duty, and eternal connection shared between siblings.
It is celebrated annually during the month of Shravana (Sawan) on the day of Purnima (full moon), Raksha Bandhan holds both cultural and spiritual significance.
In India and across the world, Raksha Bandhan is marked with joyful family gatherings, rituals, and festive meals.
Sisters perform an aarti for their brothers, apply a tilak on their foreheads, and offer sweets, while brothers shower their sisters with blessings and gifts.
The festival transcends regional boundaries and is observed in diverse ways, often reflecting local traditions and customs.
The origins of Raksha Bandhan are rooted in several ancient stories and legends.
One of the most well-known is from the epic Mahabharata, where Draupadi tied a strip of her saree on Lord Krishna’s wrist when he injured himself.
Touched by this gesture, Krishna vowed to protect her at all costs, which he later fulfilled during her moment of greatest need.
Another tale tells of Queen Karnavati of Mewar sending a Rakhi to Emperor Humayun, seeking protection against an invading army.
Honouring the bond, Humayun marched with his troops to defend her kingdom.
Beyond its mythological roots, in modern times, the celebration extends past biological relationships. Rakhis are traditionally tied during the festival of Raksha Bandhan, symbolising love, protection, and the deep bond between siblings.
However, the custom extends beyond biological brothers to include close friends, cousins, and even individuals regarded as spiritual or chosen brothers.
This practice emphasises the broader message of universal brotherhood, unity, and mutual respect.
By tying a rakhi, one expresses care, trust, and emotional connection, reinforcing the importance of supportive relationships in society.
The ritual transcends familial ties, promoting harmony, inclusiveness, and the value of standing by one another, regardless of blood relation.
By tying a rakhi, one expresses care, trust, and emotional connection, reinforcing the importance of supportive relationships in society. Picture: INDIATIMES
Sisters perform an aarti for their brothers, apply a tilak on their foreheads, and offer sweets, while brothers shower their sisters with blessings and gifts. Picture: THEDAILYJAGRAN