Festivals hold immense importance in the Sanatan Hindu religion, and among them, Raksha Bandhan stands out as a cherished occasion symbolizing the affection between brothers and sisters. Celebrated every year on the full moon day of the month of Shravan, this festival is a powerful reminder of love, protection, and mutual respect between siblings.
On Raksha Bandhan, sisters tie a rakhi on their brother’s wrist as a symbol of their love and request a promise of protection in return. This simple gesture strengthens the bond of trust and affection between them, reflecting the depth of their relationship. It’s a festival that transcends religious rituals, resonating with the core values of love and commitment.
Raksha Bandhan 2024: Date and Auspicious Timings
This year, Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on 19 August 2024, falling on Shravan Shukla Purnima, which is a Monday. The festival is further blessed with Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga and other auspicious alignments that enhance its significance. The Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga will be from 5:53 AM to 8:10 AM, coinciding with Ravi Yoga, making it a particularly favorable time for performing rituals.
Essence of Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan is more than just a ritualistic tying of a thread; it represents the enduring love and unbreakable bond between siblings. Sisters express their care through the rakhi, while brothers reciprocate with gifts and promises of protection. The festival also has deep mythological roots, with tales that highlight the significance of this sacred bond.
Stories of Raksha Bandhan in Hindu Mythology
1. Indrani Tying a Raksha Sutra to Indra
In ancient times, during the Satyuga, the demon Vritrasura threatened the gods by conquering heaven. Armed with a special boon that made him immune to all known weapons, Vritrasura posed an insurmountable challenge. However, weapons crafted from the bones of Maharishi Dadhichi and the penance power of Guru Brihaspati gave Indra the Vajra weapon. Before heading to battle, his wife, Indrani, tied a Raksha Sutra on his wrist, imbuing it with her blessings. On the full moon day of Shravan, Indra triumphed over Vritrasura, reclaiming heaven.
2. Draupadi and Lord Krishna:
When Lord Krishna defeated Shishupal with his Sudarshan Chakra, his finger was injured. In a spontaneous act of care, Draupadi tore a piece of her sari to bandage his wound. Touched by her gesture, Krishna vowed to protect her in times of need. This promise was fulfilled during the infamous episode in the Mahabharata when Dushasana tried to disrobe Draupadi in the Kaurava court. Krishna intervened, ensuring her honor was protected, demonstrating the deep bond symbolized by the rakhi.
3. Lakshmi and King Bali
According to mythology, Lord Vishnu, in his Vaman avatar, tricked King Bali into giving up his kingdom. As a result, Vishnu promised to reside with Bali in the netherworld. Concerned about her husband’s absence, Goddess Lakshmi disguised herself as a woman in distress and approached Bali, claiming she had no brother. Touched by her plight, Bali offered to become her brother. Lakshmi tied a rakhi on Bali’s wrist and requested her husband, Vishnu, as her gift. Bali honored her wish, releasing Vishnu and marking the event as a key narrative in the tradition of Raksha Bandhan.
Raksha Bandhan is a celebration of sibling relationships, filled with love, respect, and a commitment to protect each other. Whether rooted in mythology or practiced in modern times, the festival’s essence remains unchanged. It serves as a reminder that bonds of love are timeless and beyond the boundaries of life’s challenges. As Raksha Bandhan approaches in 2024, let us cherish the relationships that make life meaningful and reinforce the values of love, trust, and protection.