Raksha Bandhan is more than just a festival—it’s an emotion, a tradition, and a vow that has connected hearts for centuries.
Every year, on the full moon day of Shravan month, sisters tie a rakhi (sacred thread) on their brothers’ wrists, praying for their long life, while brothers promise to protect their sisters forever. But this beautiful tradition is not just limited to siblings.
From mythological legends to historical moments and modern expressions of unity, Raksha Bandhan tells the story of human relationships built on trust, love, and protection.
Mythological Stories Behind Raksha Bandhan
1. Krishna and Draupadi
One of the most cherished stories from the Mahabharata. When Lord Krishna hurt his finger, Draupadi tore a piece of her saree and tied it to stop the bleeding. Touched by her love, Krishna vowed to protect her—and fulfilled it during her cheer-haran (disrobing) in the Kaurava court.
Moral: A bond of divine protection and selfless love.
2. Yama and Yamuna
Goddess Yamuna tied a rakhi to her brother Yama, the god of death, wishing for his well-being. In return, Yama blessed her with immortality and declared that any brother whose sister ties a rakhi will be blessed with a long, healthy life.
3. King Bali and Goddess Lakshmi
To bring Lord Vishnu back from the underworld, where he was guarding King Bali’s kingdom, Goddess Lakshmi disguised herself as a Brahmin woman and tied a rakhi to Bali. She then asked for her husband as a gift. Bali kept his promise and released Vishnu.
Moral: Rakhi symbolizes trust, loyalty, and sacrifice.
Historical Accounts of Raksha Bandhan
1. Rani Karnavati and Emperor Humayun
When Chittorgarh was threatened by Bahadur Shah, Rani Karnavati sent a rakhi to Mughal Emperor Humayun, asking for protection. Despite religious differences, Humayun accepted it with honor and rushed to defend her.
Message: Rakhi transcends bloodlines, caste, and religion.
2. Rabindranath Tagore and the Rakhi Movement
During the Partition of Bengal (1905), Tagore encouraged Hindus and Muslims to tie rakhis to each other to promote unity and brotherhood against the British "divide and rule" policy.
Lesson: Rakhi can also be a symbol of social harmony and peace.
Raksha Bandhan Rituals – Step-by-Step
Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on Shravan Purnima.Avoid tying rakhi during Bhadra Kaal, which is considered inauspicious.
2. Prepare the Puja Thali
Include: Rakhi, roli (kumkum), rice (akshat), sweets, and flowers.
3. Sister Performs Aarti & Tilak
The sister applies tilak on the brother’s forehead and tie rakhi.
4. Ties Rakhi with a Prayer
While tying the rakhi, this Sanskrit mantra is often recited:
“Yena baddho Bali raja danavendro mahabalah,
Ten tvam prati badhnami raksha ma chala ma chala.”
(Translation: I tie you with the same thread that once bound King Bali—the powerful demon king. May it protect you always.)
5. Exchange Sweets & Gifts
Sister feeds sweets to her brother.
6. Brother gives her a gift and vows to protect her throughout life.
Raksha Bandhan in the Modern World
- Digital Rakhi: Sisters send rakhi and greetings online through apps or video calls.
- Soldiers and Rakhi: Many girls and women send rakhis to Indian army soldiers as a gesture of gratitude.
- Extended Bonds: Today, rakhis are tied not only to brothers but also to friends, mentors, fathers, and even sisters—symbolizing universal protection.
This year Raksha Bandhan will celebrated on 2025: Date & Timing
Date: Saturday, 9 August 2025Auspicious Time to Tie Rakhi: After 1:45 PM (after Bhadra ends)
Tithi: Shravan Purnima
The Sacred Thread That Unites All
Raksha Bandhan is a celebration of love, duty, and mutual respect. Whether it’s Krishna and Draupadi, Yamuna and Yama, or a modern-day soldier protecting the nation—this simple thread carries the weight of promises, prayers, and protection.
In a world often divided by differences, Rakhi reminds us that emotional bonds are stronger than any boundary.
Raksha Bandhan is not just about rituals—it's about relationships, responsibilities, and the reaffirmation of trust.