Raksha Bandhan, one of the most popular festivals among Indians, celebrates the love and affection between brothers and sisters. On this occasion, sisters tie the holy thread, known as ‘Rakhi’, around their brothers’ wrists as a mark of protection and care for their brothers. Sisters chant prayers as a ritual while tying this thread, wishing for a long and prosperous life for their brother/brothers.
Raksha Bandhan has always been an excuse for Indians to show love to siblings, irrespective of gender. Time has washed away the lingering boundaries of societal relationships. People freely tie this symbolic thread around the wrists of siblings, friends, and colleagues, now.
When is Raksha Bandhan Celebrated?
Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on the 11th of August each year, and this year will be no different. Rakhi in 2022 will be as glorious and happening as any other year in India. The hype and excitement associated with the Raksha Bandhan festival are not just limited to Indians but are prevalent in societies across the globe.
Raksha Bandhan: A Brief History
According to anecdotes from the Bhavishya Purana, the incident of tying the sacred, protective thread around Lord Krishna’s bleeding wrist marked the beginning of this ritual that came to exist in the Hindu society. If you think about it, it has a direct correlation with concern, care, and affection. This act was ceremoniously propagated by Rabindranath Tagore out to the masses, urging the celebration to prevail among Hindus and Muslims alike. He insisted that the two communities tie Rakhis on each other’s wrists and make peace and brotherhood the victor.
Lesser Known Facts about Raksha Bandhan
People in Sri Lanka, Nepal, Mauritius, and UAE also Celebrate Raksha Bandhan - Not just in India, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated in other countries, like Sri Lanka, Nepal, Mauritius, and UAE. People in these countries share the same emotions and show similar enthusiasm in observing this auspicious day.
Rabindranath Tagore Started the Rakhi Mahotsav- Yes, it was Rabindranath Tagore who initiated the Rakhi Mahotsav that is observed ceremoniously across India today. It was he who started out this tradition with a great gesture, urging communal harmony through the gesture.
Lord Indra (God of Rain and Sea) is Worshipped on the Occasion of Raksha Bandhan- Lord Indra, who is the God of Rain and the Sea, is worshipped on this day. He is the deity that people look up to during the month of Shravana when Raksha Bandhan is observed.
Tying a Rakhi around Sister-in-Law’s Wrist is Prevalent in Rajasthan - In Rajasthan, there is a tradition of tying Rakhis around the wrists of sisters-in-law, since they are considered like siblings in the community and no discrimination is made in this regard.
Draupadi Once Tied a Rakhi around Lord Krishna’s Wrist - Upon being saved from humiliation by Lord Krishna, Draupadi or Panchali had tied a Rakhi around Lord Krishna’s bleeding wrist, as a sign of care and devotion.
Significance of Raksha Bandhan in Today’s World
The world, as we know it, is ridden with crime, corruption, diseases, and war. Evil powers are at play and people are resorting to aggression and antagonism instead of harmony and peace, for obvious reasons. The re-kindling and restoration of empathy and kindness can come through sweet gestures of love and care. This is where Raksha Bandhan tightens the ground. People will take hostile action at the drop of a hat, given today’s global scenario. It takes a lot to nourish bonds and foster relationships. However, it takes absolutely nothing to be polite, understanding, and supportive towards fellow humans (even animals for that matter).
The wholesome celebration of Raksha Bandhan is sure to take away the hostility and hate, bit by bit. It can weave the souls of two individuals in a beautiful thread and eradicate the tension and discomfort between them, giving rise to humanitarian temperament and tolerance. Tying a Rakhi is not where it ends. The essence is in the commitment and relationship that one needs to uphold and prioritise.
Conclusion
Raksha Bandhan is an occasion for celebrating love, care, and affection, which is observed by most people in India. People across the globe have adopted this tradition on varying scales to celebrate their humane emotions and the ceremonious festivities are gaining prominence in terms of mass engagement. The celebrations are not just for show as it has been existent in our history for ages now. Let us spread love and affection this Raksha Bandhan, celebrating the joyous occasion with a heartfelt gesture towards our loved ones and garnering the power of human sentiments and commitment.
