Today is a special day in the Hindu calendar, celebrating Raksha Bandhan,This ritual is observed on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravan and is the day to celebrate the relationship of a brother and sister which is said to be one of the deepest and noblest of human emotions.
'Raksha Bandhan' or 'Rakhi' is a special occasion to celebrate this emotional bonding by tying a holy thread around the wrist. Sisters tie the sacred Rakhi string on their brothers' right wrists, and pray for their long life. This thread, is ideally made of silk with gold and silver threads, beautifully crafted embroidered sequins, and studded with semi precious stones. The Rakhi string resonates with sisterly love and sublime sentiments and have the meaning of 'a bond of protection', and Raksha Bandhan signifies that the strong must protect the weak from all that’s evil.
According to the Hindus, this is how the day is marked, ‘As per the traditions, the sister on this day prepares the pooja thali with diya, roli, chawal and rakhis. She worships the deities, ties Rakhi to the brother(s) and wishes for their well being. The brother in turn acknowledges the love with a promise to be by the sisters’ side through the thick and thin and gives her a token gift.’
The Social Binding
This ritual not only strengthens the bond of love between brothers and sisters, but also transcends the confines of the family. When a Rakhi is tied on the wrists of close friends and neighbours, it underscores the need for a harmonious social life, where every individual co-exist peacefully as brothers and sisters. All members of the community commit to protect each other and the society.
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