Introduction of Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan, more commonly known as Rakhi, is a significant festival that celebrates the bond of love between a brother and his sister in India. With Rakhi 2024 just a few days away, let us take a sneak peek into the tradition, importance, and modern-day celebration attached to this beautiful festival. Going to celebrate with your brothers or just want to know about this special moment more? This guide has you covered.
Historical Importance of Rakhi
Rakhi is an ancient festival. The very word "Raksha Bandhan" suggests "the bond of protection." There are several mythological origins of the festival, which are traditionally:
One of the most talked-about stories related to Rakhi is that of the legend of Rani Karnavati and Emperor Humayun. It was at a time when Chittor was threatened, and Rani Karnavati had sent a Rakhi to the Mughal Emperor Humayun asking for his protection. Living up to the bond, Humayun rushed for help, showing that Rakhi has great power in making strong alliances.
Story of Lord Krishna and Draupadi:
Another famous one goes like this. Once when Krishna accidentally cut his finger, Draupadi tore a piece from her saree to bandage the wound. Krishna was so touched by what she did that he kept on saying that now that she has done this, he was in eternal debt to her and would do anything for her.
Rakhi 2024: Dates, Muhurat, and Timings
Rakhi 2024 is falling on August 19, 2024. The festival's rituals have to be conducted at an auspicious time, or rather "Rakhi Muhurat," to make it the best one.
Rakhi 2024 Shubh Muhurat: 9 AM to 11:30 AM will remain the auspicious time during the day to tie Rakhi. Yet, the day is considered propitious from which sisters can perform the ritual accordingly.
Bhadra and its Significance:
In accordance with Hindu astrology, Bhadra is a time where a person generally does not perform any rituals of Rakhi because it is prohibited. This year Rakhi 2024, it will not face the period of Bhadra, so the day is going to be perfect to celebrate.
Traditional Rakhi Rituals: Step by Step
In India, Rakhi is celebrated with great zeal. The rituals haven't changed much since time immemorial. Here is a step-by-step guide for the traditional Rakhi rituals:Preparations: Early in the morning on Rakhi day, the sisters perform their Puja Thali, which consists of a Rakhi (decorative string), rice, roli (vermilion), diya (lamp), and sweets. 
The Rakhi-tying: Sisters tie the Rakhi to the wrists of their brothers, praying for them and invoking the blessing and fortune that God may shower on them. It is a thread with the implications of love, regard, protection, and an assurance to help on different occasions.
Tying the Rakhi: After tying the Rakhi, sisters apply tilak on their brothers' foreheads to bless and protect them.
This is then followed by a gift exchange where brothers present gifts to their sisters as a token of love and pledge for protection.
Sharing of Sweets: It is completed with the two sharing sweets, to indicate the sweetness of their relationship.
Modern-Day Rakhi Celebrations: Adapting to the Times
In the year 2024, while the spirit remains the same, the very form in which one celebrates Rakhi has mutated. Here is how Rakhi Celebrations have metamorphosed today:
Virtual Rakhis: With changing times, many brothers and sisters who dwell at different places from each other have been seen celebrating Rakhi online. Video calls, e-Rakhis, and online gifting have become famous, ensuring distance is never a hindrance in celebrations. Eco-friendly Rakhis: Of late, with a tremendous awareness regarding ecological sustainability, people are beginning to appreciate and purchase eco-friendly rakhis made of biodegradable materials. These rakhis do not only help in celebrating the bond of love but also bring about responsibility for a healthier planet.
Customized Gifts: Personalizing of gifts has become a trend nowadays, be it through jewelry, photo framing, or accessories that can be engraved. This adds a personal touch to the celebration and indeed makes it special.
Acts of Charity: A few brothers and sisters celebrate Rakhi by indulging in an act of charity. Donating to a cause, supporting the underprivileged, or planting trees in each other's names are acts of giving back to society in order to celebrate the bond between them.
Rakhi 2024: Gift Ideas for Your Sister or Brother
It is not easy to choose the perfect Rakhi gift. So, here are some unique Rakhi gift ideas for 2024:
For Sisters: You can give your sister a very nice and thoughtful gift, such as jewelry, personalized accessories, or a spa voucher. Experience gifts, like a weekend away or special dinner, also work well.
Rakhi Outside India: Celebration from Across the World Rakhi is not confined only to India, rather it is celebrated with joy by the Indian community spread worldwide. In countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia, this has become a night where Indian expatriates gather at different homes to bring alive some of their traditions and bask in their roots.
