Raksha Bandhan

Nazeer Akbarabadi nazm Rakhi

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Raksha Bandhan journal1951b

Raksha Bandhan journal1951c

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Raksha Bandhan journal1951d

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Raksha Bandhan journal1951e

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Dr Rajendra Prasad Rakhi 1953

Raksha Bandhan is a traditional Hindu festival celebrated predominantly in India and Nepal, symbolizing the love and duty between brothers and sisters. The festival is also popular among some communities in Pakistan and other countries with a significant Hindu population. It falls on the full moon day of the Hindu lunar month of Shravana, which typically occurs in August.

Etymology

The name "Raksha Bandhan" translates to "the bond of protection" in Sanskrit. "Raksha" means protection, and "Bandhan" means bond or tie. The festival is known by various other names in different regions, such as Rakhi Purnima, Rakhi, Saluno, Ujjwal Silono, and Rakri.

History

The origins of Raksha Bandhan are found in ancient Hindu scriptures and epics, suggesting that it has been celebrated for centuries. One popular mythological story associated with the festival is that of Lord Krishna and Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas in the Mahabharata. According to the legend, when Krishna cut his finger, Draupadi tore a piece of her saree and tied it around his finger to stop the bleeding, which Krishna promised to repay by protecting her.

Another historical reference is found during the Mughal period when the Rajput queens practiced the custom of sending rakhi threads to the Mughal kings as a token of brotherhood and peace.

Customs and Practices

The festival is marked by a simple yet profound ceremony where sisters tie a rakhi (a decorative thread) on their brothers' wrists. The rakhi symbolizes the sister's love and prayers for her brother's well-being, and the brother's lifelong vow to protect her. The ritual begins with a prayer, followed by the sister applying a Tilak (a colorful mark) on the brother's forehead, tying the rakhi, and exchanging sweets. In return, brothers often gift their sisters with presents or money as a token of their love and appreciation.

Significance

Raksha Bandhan celebrates the unique bond between brothers and sisters, transcending biological relationships to include those between men and women who share a brotherly-sisterly bond but are not related by blood. It reinforces the notion of mutual respect, care, and protection beyond the confines of the family.

Modern Celebrations

In contemporary times, Raksha Bandhan has retained its cultural significance and is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country. With the advent of technology, sisters who are unable to tie rakhi on their brothers' wrists in person send them through mail or use virtual platforms to celebrate the occasion. The festival has also become an occasion for community gatherings, cultural programs, and charitable activities.

Cultural Impact

Raksha Bandhan has a profound cultural impact, promoting the values of love, affection, and mutual respect. It is a day when siblings put aside their differences and come together to celebrate their special bond. The festival also plays a significant role in strengthening family ties and social harmony.