Raksha Bandhan – a thread of protection

In the month of shravan, on the full moon day, like any other Indian festival RAKSHABANDHAN is celebrated with the same gist and warmth. This very day marks the promise of never ending love and affection between a brother and a sister.

On Rakshabandhan every sister ties a thread on the wrist of her brother and prays for his long and prosperous life. The brother   takes this as a pledge to protect his sister throughout his life. Exchanging gifts and sweets is also considered very auspicious on this day.

This festival has its roots in the ancient times and even today it has not lost its charm. It has a very significant place in the hearts of Indians and parents make strong efforts to imbibe the values and emotions associated with this festival into their children.

The rituals begin with decoration of a thali (silver plate)   with red cloth, golden and silver laces by the sister which includes lamp, flowers and vermillion, to be applied on the brothers’ forehead, and sweets. Sisters commence the pooja with aarti and then tie the sacred rakhi on the brother’s wrist.

This festival reminds all the brothers and sisters of the unconditional love and care that they share. Much before the day, every market witnesses huge crowds of men and women buying gifts and rakhis.The sacred rakhi is now available not just as a plain thread but in plethora of variety and designs including gold and diamond studded ones.

.Indians respect relationships and celebrate the legacy of their forefathers on different festivals round the year and Rakshabandhan is one of them.