According to mythology, a sister who ties a protective thread (Raksha Sutra) on her brother’s wrist on this day, ensures that her brother never faces any danger and achieves great success in life.
Raksha Bandhan is considered a major festival in Hinduism. Symbolising the love between siblings, this festival strengthens relationships with the bond of affection and is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Sawan. Siblings eagerly await this festival every year. According to mythology, a sister who ties a protective thread (Raksha Sutra) on her brother’s wrist on this day, ensures that her brother never faces any danger and achieves great success in life.
Raksha Bandhan 2024: Date
Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on the full moon day of Sawan. This year, Raksha Bandhan falls on Monday, August 19th. In Maharashtra, it is also known as Narali Purnima. On this day, sisters tie Rakhi, a protective thread, on their brothers’ wrists and pray for their long life, happiness, and bright future. Brothers, in return, give gifts to their sisters and promise to protect them throughout their lives.
Raksha Bandhan: History
Raksha Bandhan has been celebrated since the times of the gods and goddesses and there are many tales surrounding this auspicious festival.
According to one story, when demons overpowered Lord Indra, his wife Indrani became worried. Following the advice of Brihaspati, Indrani tied a silk thread enchanted with mantras on Indra’s wrist on the day of Sawan Purnima. Subsequently, the gods won the battle. This is why women tie a protective thread on their brothers’ wrists every year and wish for their victory.
Another story from the Mahabharata era tells of how Draupadi tore a piece of her saree to bandage Lord Krishna’s finger when it was cut during the war with Shishupala. Krishna then promised to protect her. He kept his promise during the disrobing of Draupadi, protecting her dignity. This festival not only strengthens and rejuvenates the bond between siblings but also reinforces social and familial commitments, weaving everyone together in a single thread.
