Celebrating the Bond: Stories of Raksha Bandhan (Rakhi)

The relationship between a brother and sister is unique and special, often difficult to put into words. This bond is celebrated globally, but in India, it holds a distinct significance due to the festival called "Raksha Bandhan," dedicated to sibling love.

What is Raksha Bandhan?

"Raksha Bandhan" comes from two words: "Raksha" meaning protection, and "Bandhan" meaning bond. This festival represents the protective bond between siblings. It is not limited to blood relations but extends to cousins, sister-in-law (bhabhi), aunts (bua), nephews (bhatija), and other similar relationships.

Importance Across Different Religions

• Hinduism: Raksha Bandhan is widely celebrated by Hindus in North and West India, as well as in Nepal, Pakistan, and Mauritius.
• Jainism: Jain priests tie ceremonial threads to devotees.
• Sikhism: In Sikhism, the festival is known as "Rakhardi" or "Rakhari."

Legends Associated with Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan has a rich history with many mythological stories linked to it:

• Indra Dev and Shachi: According to the Bhavishya Purana, during a fierce battle between gods and demons, Indra’s wife Shachi received a holy thread from Lord Vishnu. She tied it around Indra’s wrist, which helped him defeat the demons.
• King Bali and Goddess Lakshmi: As per the Bhagavata Purana and Vishnu Purana, after Lord Vishnu defeated the demon king Bali, he agreed to stay with him. Goddess Lakshmi tied a rakhi to Bali and asked him to release Vishnu, which Bali granted.
• Santoshi Maa: Lord Ganesha’s sons, Shubh and Labh, wanted a sister. With the help of saint Narada, Ganesha created Santoshi Maa, and they celebrated Raksha Bandhan with her.
• Krishna and Draupadi: In the Mahabharata, Draupadi tied a rakhi to Krishna, and Kunti tied one to her grandson Abhimanyu.
• Yama and Yamuna: The god of death, Yama, did not visit his sister Yamuna for 12 years. When he finally did, Yamuna’s love and hospitality moved him so much that he granted her immortality, allowing them to meet regularly.

Why Raksha Bandhan is Celebrated

Raksha Bandhan symbolizes the duty and love between brothers and sisters. On this day, a sister ties a rakhi (a sacred thread) on her brother’s wrist, praying for his prosperity, health, and well-being. In return, the brother gives her gifts and vows to protect her in all circumstances. This festival is also celebrated among cousins and close family friends who share a brother-sister bond.

Celebrate this beautiful festival with your siblings, cherishing the simplicity and love it represents.