Essay – Raksha Bandhan
One of my favourite holidays is Raksha Bandhan which honours the unique relationship between a brother and sister. The words “Raksha” which means protection and “Bandhan” which means bind or tie, are the origin of the term. On this day, sisters adorn their brothers’ wrists with a vibrant thread known as a Rakhi. In exchange, brothers typically give their sisters presents and swear to always defend them!
In India, the Raksha Bandhan celebration has been observed for generations. One well-known tale concerns Mewar queen Rani Karnavati, who, when her realm was in jeopardy, sent a Rakhi to the Mughal Emperor Humayun pleading for assistance. He came to assist her after being moved by the gesture. There’s also a story from the Mahabharata where Draupadi tied a piece of her sari on Lord Krishna’s wrist when he was injured. In return Krishna promised to protect her forever.
We get up early and change into fresh clothes at my place. I prepare a small puja thali with rice, diya, sweets and a Rakhi. I pray for my brother’s happiness and safety, tie the Rakhi on his wrist and apply tilak to his forehead. We share a ton of delicious treats and he gives me a gift!
Raksha Bandhan in my opinion, is about continually looking out for one another rather than just brothers defending sisters. On sometimes, even close acquaintances and cousins celebrate it. It serves as a reminder of the value of family and how fortunate we are to have loved ones at our side.
Raksha Bandhan is a celebration of love, trust and enduring friendship between siblings rather than merely a custom. And of course, I enjoy the gifts too!
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