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Raksha Bandhan (रक्षाबंधन — Bond of Protection)
Overview
Raksha Bandhan is a festival celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. On the full moon day of Shravan (July–August), sisters tie a sacred thread (rakhi) around their brothers' wrists, praying for their well-being; brothers pledge to protect their sisters.
Mythology
Yama and Yamuna: The god of death, Yama, received a rakhi from his sister Yamuna and granted her immortality. This myth establishes the festival's association with longevity and protection.
Krishna and Draupadi: When Krishna cut his finger, Draupadi tore a strip from her sari to bind the wound. Krishna vowed to protect her, a promise fulfilled during her disrobing in the Kaurava court.
Rani Karnavati and Humayun: The historical legend of the Rajput queen sending a rakhi to the Mughal emperor, who rushed to defend her kingdom.
Rituals
- Rakhi tying: Sister applies tilak, ties rakhi, performs aarti, feeds sweets
- Gift exchange: Brothers give gifts and money to sisters
- Prayers: Recitation of mantras for protection and prosperity
Modern Significance
Beyond biological siblings, Raksha Bandhan has expanded to include friends, cousins, and even soldiers — schoolchildren tie rakhis for army personnel as a gesture of national solidarity.
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