Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated each year on the full moon in the Hindu month of Shravan.

Raksha translates as ‘safety’ and Bandhan translates as ‘bond.’

Therefore, Raksha Bandhan means a ‘bond of protection’.

Raksha Bandhan, Rakshabandhan, or simply Rakhi, is an Indian and Nepalese festival focused around tying a thread, bracelet or talisman on the wrist as a symbol of a bond and ritual protection. 

Raksha Bandhan originated as a celebration of the pure bond and unconditional love that exists between siblings. It represents a promise to always be there and to provide protection, no matter the circumstances.

As with most Hindu festivals, Raksha Bandhan is rooted in history and stems from mythological events. According to these events, Raksha Bandhan represents when Lord Krishna accidentally nicked his finger on his Sudarshan chakra (a serrated disc he used as a powerful weapon). Princess Draupadi, his sister, then tore a piece of her saree and tied it to his finger to stop the bleeding. Lord Krishna was so touched by this gesture, that he vowed to always protect and cherish her.

Therefore, traditionally, Raksha Bandhan celebrates the protective bond between the elder brother and his younger sister by tying a rakhi (talisman) to the wrist, however, the modern celebration of this ritual is more inclusive.

In the modern interpretation of this ritual, the roles can go either way. 

If one doesn’t have an elder brother, the rakhi can be tied to an elder sister and vice versa for the younger sibling. Also, if one is a single child, Rakhis are tied to friends and relatives. 

In modern times, this festival is more focused on a playful exchange of gifts and tying a rakhi to someone special – someone that has been caring and nurturing towards you, regardless of their relations or gender. 

No matter how it is carried out, the essence of the meaning behind the festival remains the same, as for Hindus, this is a festival of togetherness and the celebration of all loved ones being together as one big family.

Although this festival is centred around the exchanging of rakhis and gifts, as with most Hindu festivals, prayers, singing, dancing and playing music takes place. Delicious traditional meals and sweets are also eaten and shared. For those who are not able to meet each other rakhi, cards are sent along with gifts.

Show you unconditional love and sibling unity through our beautiful collection of Raksha Bandhan cards.