Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan is a festival which means a bond of protection. It is symbolized by Rakhi, a sacred thread of protection embellished with the love and affection of a sister for her brother. This festival is observed in India where it holds immense significance.

It is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravana. It is also called Rakhi Purnima in most parts of India. 

Rakhi is celebrated by the Hindus and as well as by Sikhs. It is obseved by the tying of a rakhi (sacred thread) by a sister on her brother's wrist. Sister prayers for her brother's well-being and long life and the brother vows to protect her from all adversities.  

This is also an occasion for family get together. Sisters start the preparation at least a fortnight before the festival. In order to make the day special, they buy rakhis, rakhi gifts, pooja thalis, sweets, etc.

The thali for the Rakhi is decorated with diya, sweets and flowers and most importantly the Rakhi. After the puja and the aarti, the thread tying ceremony comes wherein sisters tie rakhi on their brother's wrist and ask God to bless them with his blessings and  keep their brothers away from the trials of life. The ritual and customs come to an end as brothers shower their sisters with Rakhi gifts. Gifts are the special part of Rakhi celebration. It can be in the form of money, clothes or household items. Then sisters offer sweets to their brothers. These sweets include anything from Jalebi, Kaju Katli, and Burfi.

All together Rakhi strengthens the eternal tie of love between brothers and sister.