Raksha Bandhan 2023
Raksha Bandhan is one of the most popular festivals of the Hindu community and is observed as the day to honour the relationship between a brother and sister. In English, ‘Raksha Bandhan‘ translates to ‘the bond of protection, obligation or care’. According to the Hindu calendar, Raksha Bandhan falls on the last day of the lunar calendar month of Shravan. In 2023, Raksha Bandhan (Rakhi) will be celebrated on 30th August (Wednesday).
Raksha Bandhan History and Significance:
The origin of Raksha Bandhan goes as far as the era of Gods and Goddesses. According to a popular legend, Draupadi tied a piece of cloth on Lord Krishna’s wrist when he hurt his finger while fighting to kill the evil King Shishupal. Krishna, in return, promised to protect her.
Medieval history has another significant version about a brother’s promise to his sister. When under attack by Bahadur Shah of Gujarat, Rani Karnavati of Mewar sent a Rakhi to Emperor Humayun and sought help from him. Touched by the gesture, the Mughal ruler abandoned his military campaign and rushed to help the queen without wasting any time.
During the Partition of Bengal in 1905, Rabindranath Tagore started Rakhi Mahotsav – a mass Raksha Bandhan festival, to instil a feeling of togetherness and love between Hindus and Muslims of Bengal. It is known that he started this tradition as a counter to the efforts of the British of creating a divide between communities.
Importance of Raksha Bandhan Festival:
Raksha Bandhan is a festival celebrated in India to honor the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. It holds immense importance as it symbolizes the deep-rooted affection, love, and protection that siblings have for each other. This festival not only strengthens the bond between siblings but also fosters a sense of unity, love, and respect within the family. It serves as a reminder of the values of loyalty, trust, and support that are essential in any relationship. Raksha Bandhan transcends boundaries, bringing families together and reinforcing the significance of the sibling bond. It is a celebration of the unbreakable bond of love and a cherished tradition that brings joy and happiness to all involved.
On the auspicious day of Raksha Bandhan, sisters across the country tie a sacred thread called a “Rakhi” around the wrist of their brothers. The rakhi symbolises the sister’s love and prayers for her brother’s well-being, and in return, the brother gives gifts to his sister and promises to protect and support her throughout her life.
Raksha Bandhan is not limited to biological siblings. It can also be celebrated between cousins, close friends, and even adopted brothers and sisters. The festival emphasises the importance of the bond between siblings and encourages love, care, and protection among family members.
In recent years, Raksha Bandhan has become more inclusive, with people from different religious and cultural backgrounds also celebrating the festival as a symbol of love and unity. It has transcended religious boundaries and is now cherished by people of various faiths across India and other parts of the world.
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