About Rakhi
Raksha Bandhan (also known and commonly abbreviated as "Rakhi") is a Hindu Festival which celebrates the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. The word "Raksha Bandhan" literally translates to "the pact of protection" and this occasion is observed on the night of full moon in the month of Shraavana. This year, Rakhi is being celebrated on the 5th of August 2010.
This festival is celebrated by the ritual of the sister tying the "Rakhi" - a sacred / holy thread on the wrist of her brother. The tying of the thread indicates a pact where the brother vows to protect and look after her sister. He also offers gifts to his sister. The brother and sister also offer sweets to each other.
Rakhi is also observed in relationships which are not strictly brother-sister by birth. Cousins, Platonic friends also tie rakhi to their "adopted" brothers.
History of Rakhi
Ultimately, Rakhi is a sacred festival which celebrates the protection of the weak by the strong, from evil and history provides us with interesting examples of Men protecting women on the strength of the bond of Rakhi. Emperor Humayun, though not a Hindu accepted the Rakhi sent by Rani Karnavati of Chittor and marched to her aid along with his vast armies, when she was attached by Bahadur Shah.
It is said that Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas had once torn a small patch off her sari and tied it around Lord Krishna's wrist to stem the flow of blood. Lord Krishna, in turn vowed to repay the debt of Draupadi and ensure her protection. He later appeared during the Vastra Haran of Draupadi and saved her modesty in front of the assembly by infinitely extending her saree.
Raksha Bandhan celebrations in India.
Though tying the thread is the central part of the ceremony on this day, Rakhi is celebrated as a family event, with all members of the family assembled, dressed in traditional clothes. The sister ties the rakhi on the wrist of her brother, which symbolizes her asking for his love and protection. The brother accepts the rakhi, thereby completing the pact.
Rakhi also involves the wife of the brother. The sister ties a "loomba" to the bangles of her "Bhabi" (i.e. Sister in Law). The Bhabhi also reciprocates with gifts or money. The entire occasion if followed by a family feast comprising of elaborate dishes and sweets.
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