Delve into the legends
According to the Indian epic Mahabharata, Lord Krishna once cut his finger which prompted Draupadi to tear a piece of cloth from her saree and tie it on his finger to stop the bleeding. From then on, the piece of cloth became a sacred thread that symbolised the true meaning of Raksha Bandhan!
Another legend speaks of how the tradition of Raksha Bandhan began. It is said that King Bali's devotion to Lord Vishnu led the deity to protect the kingdom, necessitating him to leave his abode. Lord Vishnu’s wife Goddess Lakshmi could not stand the distance so, in disguise as a Brahmin refugee, she tied a Rakhi on King Bali's wrist on Shravan Purnima. Touched by her revelation, King Bali requested Lord Vishnu to accompany Lakshmi to Vaikuntha. Since then, it's been a tradition to invite one’s sister on Shravan Purnima for the auspicious tying of the Raksha Bandhan thread.
The heartfelt traditions
A month before the festivities even begin, you will discover that the lively markets are overflowing with an array of exquisite Rakhis – from vibrant threads to precious metals like silver and gold. Embark on a shopping spree, selecting fancy Rakhis, heartfelt cards, and meaningful gifts for your brothers or sisters. Whether they're near or far, choose a gift that mirrors the depth of your shared bond. As morning rituals unfold, sisters take the lead in performing Aarti and applying Tilak on their brothers’ foreheads. Afterwards, the sister ties a Rakhi around her brother's wrist, a powerful symbol of her prayers for his prosperity, health, and overall well-being.
In return, brothers shower their sisters with gifts and promises to be their protector under every circumstance. The day unfolds with an aura of love, laughter, and a harmonious symphony of affection, transcending borders and cultural boundaries. The culmination of the occasion involves a beautifully adorned plate featuring Rakhi, vermilion, unbroken rice grains, sweets, a diya, and incense sticks. As you participate in this lovely tradition, engage in prayers, and seek divine blessings for the mutual well-being of you and your loved ones.
