Raksha Bandhan
Introduction: Raksha Bandhan (also Rakhi Purnima, Rakhi festival) is an ancient Indian festival. It celebrates the bond of love and affection between a sister and a brother.
The festival is most common among the Hindus. However, it is also celebrated by the Sikhs, Jains and other communities.
Ritual: The sister ties a thread (known as Rakhi) on the wrist of his brother and marks a tilak on his forehead. The brother promises to always protect his sister.
Celebration: Fairs are held in most of the towns, where beautiful rakhis are sold. Women and girls visit these fairs and select their favorite rakhi. Some girls prefer make Rakhi of their own.
Women and girls wake up early in the morning and start preparing delicious food and desserts for their brothers.
Both the sister and the brother wear new clothes on this day. The brother gives gifts to the sister.
Time: Rakhi Purnima is observed on the full moon day of the Shravan month of Hindu calendar.
Importance: Raksha Bandhan reinforces the love between brother and a sister. It is the duty of every brother to protect his sister. The sister prays for the well-being, success, and safety of her brother. The brother promises to safeguard his sister under all circumstances. It helps to build a healthy family relationship.
