The Festival Of Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan

A Indian Festival

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Raksh bandhan is an auspicious day that celebrates the unbreakable bond between a brother and a sister. The true meaning of the festival resonates from it's literal translation that reads 'safety' and 'bond'. On this day, sisters from most parts of the Indian subcontinent, tie a talisman, or an amulet, called rakhi, around the wrists of brothers, who in return reward their sisters with gifts and promise to protect them from every difficult situations in their lives. However, with the changing times, many sisters have taken it upon themselves to promise theirs the same. 

This sacred festival is observed  on the last day of the Hindu lunar calendar month of shraavan, which typically falls in August. That being said, here's a proper glimpse at the history and significance of the festival.

 History

Amongst the many historical references for celebration of raksha bandhan here's one of the most famous story of medieval era in linked to the Mughal period, the widowed empress of chittor, Karnavati, could not bear the crisis in her state and sent a Rakhi to Mughal Emperor Humayun. With the help of this gesture, she sought help to protect her state against the attack of Bahadur Shah of Gujarat. After that, Humayun sent a huge army to protect his sister.

There's also a story that believed that Draupadi once tore a strip of her saree and tied it to Krishna's bleeding wrist. From them onwards, Krishna declared her his sister and also protected her, when she was publicly humiliated by the Kauravas, after being gambled away in a dice game by her husband.

After lord Vishnu won three worlds from the demon King Bali, he requested lord Vishnu to live in his palace. Lord Vishnu granted his wish. Lord Vishnu, being the greatest of all gods had to keep his promise hence he started living in Bali's palace with his wife Goddess Lakshmi. But Goddess Lakshmi did not like the palace or his new found friendship with Bali, and preferred that her husband and she return back to Vaikuntha

Goddess Lakshmi disguised herself  as a Brahmin Women and went to Bali to seek protection till her husband returns. Bali, kind by nature, welcomed her into his palace.

Goddess Lakshmi knowing the opportunity, came on the right occasion of Shravan Purnima. She tied a colored cotton amulet (Rakhi) on Bali's wrist. Bali was greatly touched by this gesture of the Brahmin Women (Lakshmi) and asked her for a gift. Goddess Lakshmi grabbed this opportunity with both hands and revealed her real identity and asked Bali to free her husband (Lord Vishnu) from his request. As Bali had given his words, he had to relent but he extracted a promise from the couple to visit his palace evry year on this day for a meal with him. 

 Significance

Besides all the mythical and historical importance, the true significance of the occasion lies in the true bond between a brother and a sister. It is the pure symbol of love, where the siblings promise to always be there for each other and make sure to safeguard the honour and glory of one another.

Although the rakhi ceremonies are extremely simple and momentary, the preparations involved are unimaginable. The true essence of the festival does not lie in the rakhi itself, but it remains in the hearts of the people involved in the ceremony. It is the nature of the promise and the will to always be together, whether in happiness or in pain. That being said, appreciate every moment of your time with your siblings and have a wonderful and a Happy Raksha Bandhan.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Raksha Bandhan celebrates the enduring bond of love and protection between siblings, rooted in ancient Hindu traditions and historical tales. 

Its endurance and legacy are marked by its ability to adapt to changing times while maintaining its core values. Raksha Bandhan continues to strengthen familial bonds and promote universal values of love, protection, and mutual respect, uniting people across generations and societal changes.

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