Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi, is a traditional Hindu festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. During this festival, sisters tie a protective thread called a ‘rakhi’ around their brothers’ wrists, symbolizing their love and prayers for their brothers’ well-being, while the brothers give gifts and pledge to protect their sisters. The festival is marked by family gatherings, rituals and the exchange of sweets and gifts.
In 2024, Raksha Bandhan will fall on Monday, August 19, as per Drikpachang. The exact timing for the mahurat to perform the Rakhi ceremony depends on the Purnima Tithi (full moon day). The best time to tie rakhi is usually during the Aparahna, which is the late afternoon according to the Hindu division of the day, or Pradosh time. It’s essential to avoid Bhadra time, which is considered inauspicious for this ritual.
Raksha Bandhan 2024 Shubh Muhurat
- Time of Raksha Bandhan ritual — 1:30 pm to 9:19 pm
- Afternoon auspicious time for Raksha Bandhan — 1:58 pm to 4:31 pm
- Purnima Tithi starts — August 19 at 3:04 am
- Full moon date ends — August 19 at 11:55 pm
This year you can surprise your brother with a homemade rakhi. Here is what you need:
- Any type of thread: Cotton, silk or any embroidery thread in various colours.
- Decorative items: Beads, stones, pearls
- Felt or Fabric: Grab small pieces of felt or any other sturdy fabric.
- Keep all the accessories handy: Glue, scissors, needle and thread.
DIY Rakhi Delight: Step-by-Step Guide to a Personalized Rakhi
- Choose three or more colours of thread. Measure and cut each thread to about 12-15 inches in length.
- Tie a knot at one end, leaving a small tail. Braid the threads together until you reach the desired length. Tie a knot at the other end, leaving another small tail.
- Cut small shapes (flowers, circles) out of the fabric. These will be the base of your central design.
- Glue the beads or stones onto the felt shape, arrange them in a pattern and allow them to dry.
- Place a dot of glue at the back of your decorated fabric piece and paste it at the centre of the braided thread.
- To ensure that it stays in place, you can also sew it.
- If desired, you can add stones at the end of the thread to make it look more beautiful.
Following these steps, you can create a unique and beautiful rakhi that carries a personal touch. It’s a wonderful way to show your love and creativity, making the Raksha Bandhan celebration even more special.
Raksha Bandhan: History and Significance
The origins of Raksha Bandhan can be traced back to ancient Hindu scriptures and epics. One of the most famous mythological stories is that of Krishna and Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas.
According to the Mahabharata, Draupadi tied a strip of cloth to Krishna’s finger to stop the bleeding from a wound. Touched by her concern, Krishna promised to protect her, which is considered one of the earliest instances of the Rakhi bond.
Holding immense significance in Indian culture, the festival of Rakhi symbolises the love, affection, and bond between brothers and sisters.
The day begins with sisters and brothers dressing up in traditional attire. Sisters prepare a thali with the Rakhi, roli (sacred red thread), rice grains, sweets, and a diya (lamp).
They perform an aarti, apply a tilak to their brothers’ foreheads, and tie the rakhi. Brothers, in turn, promise to protect their sisters and offer them gifts or money as a token of their love.
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