Raksha Bandhan Celebration in Rajasthan is famous for its grandeur. In Rajasthan, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated with pomp and show. The festival falls in the month of Shravan (July-August), and people in Rajasthan get dressed up in their ethnic attire. People decorate their homes with rangoli, jhoomar, tukra art and use vibrant colours like orange, green, yellow, etc. First, let’s talk about the significance of Raksha Bandhan.
Story Behind Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi or Rakri, is a joyous festival celebrated by Hindus worldwide to honor the bond of love and responsibility between brothers and sisters. However, the significance of this holiday goes beyond biological relationships, as it brings together people of all genders, religions, and ethnic backgrounds to celebrate various forms of platonic love.
The term ‘Raksha Bandhan’ translates to ‘the knot of protection’ in Sanskrit. Although the rituals associated with this festival may vary in different regions, they all involve the tying of a thread. The sister or a sister-like figure ties a colorful and sometimes elaborate thread around her brother’s wrist, symbolizing her prayers and well-wishes for his protection. In return, the brother presents his sister with a meaningful gift.
The Origins of Raksha Bandhan can be traced back to ancient times. References to this festival can be found in legends related to Alexander the Great dating back to 326 BCE. Hindu scriptures also contain several accounts of Raksha Bandhan:
- One such story involves Sachi, the wife of Indra, tying a thread around Indra’s wrist to safeguard him during a battle against the mighty demon King Bali. This tale suggests that holy threads were possibly used as amulets in ancient India, offering protection to men going to war, and not limited solely to the brother-sister relationship.
- Another legend from the Bhagavat Puran and Vishnu Puran narrates how after Vishnu defeats King Bali and conquers the three worlds, King Bali requests Vishnu to live in his palace. Vishnu’s wife, Goddess Lakshmi, disapproves of this arrangement and ties a Rakhi on King Bali, making him her brother. Touched by this gesture, King Bali grants her a wish, and Lakshmi asks for Vishnu’s return home.
- In another story, Ganesh’s sister, Devi Manasa, visits him on Raksha Bandhan and ties a Rakhi on his wrist. This inspires Ganesh’s sons, Shubh and Labh, who desire to participate in the Raksha Bandhan celebration but feel left out without a sister. They persuade Ganesh to grant them a sister, leading to the creation of Santoshi Maa. From then on, the three siblings celebrate Raksha Bandhan together each year.
- Krishna and Draupadi, known for their strong friendship, share a significant moment during Raksha Bandhan. When Krishna injures his finger in battle, Draupadi tears a piece of her sari to bandage his wound. Touched by her act of love, Krishna promises to repay her kindness. Later, Krishna fulfills his promise by coming to Draupadi’s aid during a critical moment.
- Additionally, in the epic Mahabharat, Draupadi ties Rakhi to Krishna before he leaves to fight in the great war. Similarly, Kunti, the mother of the Pandavas, ties a Rakhi to her grandson Abhimanyu before he embarks on his own battle.
These stories highlight the rich cultural significance and diverse narratives associated with Raksha Bandhan, showcasing the deep bonds of love and protection that exist beyond biological relationships.
Significance of Rakhi Festival
Rakhi festival is celebrated on Purnima Tithi (full moon) of Shukla Paksha of Shrawan month according to Hindu calendar. Although Rakhi Festival is considered as festival of brothers and sisters yet not limited only to them, but for everyone. Rakhi is a sacred thread which is tied on the wrist. On this auspicious day sisters tie the sacred thread Rakhi on wrist of their brothers. Brothers promise their sister to protect them life long. Similarly, anyone who want protection can tie Rakhi to a person of his confidence.
There are many stories related to Rakhi festival. According to one story, Once Draupadi-the wife of Pandavas, tied Rakhi to Lord Shri Krishna on Purnima tithi of Shukla Paksha of Shravan month to get protection from all the problems and challenges of life. Lord Krishna promised to protect her. Later on, Duryodhan (Prince of Hastinapur)- brother-in-law of Draupadi tried to insult her in courtyard by removing her cloths (Saari) by force. Draupadi remembered Lord Krishna at the moment and he protected Draupadi by increasing the length of her Saari (an Indian traditional female dress).
According to another story when Indra was defeated by Vritrasura, Indra went to Brihaspati – Guru of Deities to get advice. On his advice Indra’s wife Shachi tied a Rakhi on wrist of Indra to ensure victory and went to Rishi Dadhichi to get his bones in donation to make the weapon Vajra. Indra got his bones and made the weapon Vajra and defeated Vritrasura, and got his Kingdom “Swarga” back.
Destinations to Experience Raksha Bandhan in Rajasthan
While the festival is primarily a family celebration, you can feel the festive atmosphere and cultural richness in many of Rajasthan’s cities and villages. The markets are especially vibrant, with shops decked out in colorful rakhis and sweets.
Jaipur: The “Pink City” offers a perfect blend of modern and traditional celebrations. You can witness the festive spirit in the bustling bazaars, like Johari Bazaar, which will be filled with a variety of colorful rakhis, sweets, and gifts. You can also explore historic sites like the Hawa Mahal or City Palace, which provide a regal backdrop to the festivities.
Jaisalmer: For a unique and memorable celebration, you could visit Jaisalmer. The “Golden City” with its enchanting desert vibes and historic marvels is an ideal place for a sibling trip. You can explore the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, go on a camel ride in the Sam Sand Dunes, and enjoy folk music and dance in a desert camp.
Udaipur: The “City of Lakes” offers a romantic and serene setting for a Raksha Bandhan trip. You and your sibling can enjoy a sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola, explore the majestic City Palace, and wander through the local markets for authentic Rajasthani handicrafts and souvenirs.
How is the festival celebrated?
The festival of Raksha Bandhan is celebrated by sisters tying a thread known as Rakhi on the wrists of their brothers, and brothers, on the other hand, give gifts to their sisters and promise to take care of them throughout their life. On this particular day, almost everybody in the house wears new clothes, and relatives and neighbours visit the houses to celebrate this festival. Many special kinds of dishes are also prepared on this particular day.
FAQs on Raksha Bandhan (Rakhi) 2025
Q. How will India celebrate Rakhi in 2025?
A. In India, Raksha Bandhan is a much-anticipated holiday. Sisters choose special rakhis and treats in order to get ready for the occasion. Sisters present sweets, perform aarti (a ceremonial rite), and tie rakhis around their brothers’ wrists on the day of Raksha Bandhan. In return, brothers present gifts to their sisters as a sign of their affection and defence. Families might get together for the celebration to exchange blessings and enjoy festive meals.
Q. When is Raksha Bandhan going to be celebrated in 2025?
A. In 2025, Raksha Bandhan will be observed on 09 August 2025.
Q. Are there any regional differences in how India will celebrate Raksha Bandhan in 2025?
A. Yes, Raksha Bandhan is observed in various regions of India with minor regional differences. For instance, in the state of Maharashtra, “Narali Purnima”—a holiday honouring the sea god Varuna—is observed with Raksha Bandhan. In some parts of North India, in addition to their own brothers, it is usual for the sister to tie a sacred thread to the wrist of their brother-in-law. The overall Raksha Bandhan festival in India is made more interesting and distinctive by these regional variations.
Q. When will Raksha Bandhan occur in 2025?
A. Raksha Bandhan is on the 09th of August 2025.
Q. How is the celebration of Rakhi 2025 expected to unfold in India?
A. Raksha Bandhan holds a special place in India’s festive calendar and is marked by fervent celebrations. On the day of Raksha Bandhan, sisters lovingly tie the rakhi around their brothers’ wrists, perform the aarti ritual, and offer sweet treats. Brothers reciprocate with gifts, symbolising their care and safeguarding. This occasion also brings families together.
Q. Do diverse regions in India celebrate Raksha Bandhan 2025?
A. Yes, the festivities of Raksha Bandhan exhibit nuanced regional deviations throughout various parts of India. For instance, in Maharashtra, alongside Raksha Bandhan, ‘Narali Purnima’ is celebrated, dedicated to honouring the sea deity Varuna. In certain Northern Indian regions, sisters extend the ritual to their brothers-in-law, adorning them with sacred threads.
Q. Is Raksha Bandhan celebrated only in India?
A. While Raksha Bandhan is predominantly celebrated in India, it is also observed by Indian communities around the world. Its popularity has led to its recognition in various countries.
Q. Are rakhi celebrations limited to blood siblings?
A. No, Rakhi celebrations extend beyond blood relationships. People tie Rakhis to close friends, cousins, and even neighbours, emphasising the bond of protection and love.
Q. Who started Rakhi Bandhan?
A. The festival of Rakhi started in Rani Karnavati, Rana’s mother. According to the mid-seventeenth century Rajasthani account, she sent a bracelet as Rakhi to Humayun, and he responded well and helped her.
Q. What is the story behind Rakhi?
A. After conquering the three worlds from King Bali, Vishnu was asked to live in King Bali’s palace. Goddess Lakshmi was not happy with this and so she tied Rakhi on King Bali to make him a brother according to the Bhagavat Puran and Vishnu Puran.
Q. What are the rules for Rakhi?
A. The Rakhi rituals involve prayer dine by the sisters for the well-being of their brothers. The sisters apply tilak on the forehead of their brothers, feed their brothers with sweets, desserts, or dry fruits, and finally tie the rakhi around their wrist.
Q. Why is Rakhi not tied at night?
A. Rakhi is not tied at Bhadrakal or night-time as per Hinduism where no auspicious is not performed after sunset.
Q. Is it a bank holiday on Raksha Bandhan?
A. Yes, Raksha Bandhan 2025 will be a bank holiday and all banks across the country will remain closed on 19 August.
Q. Is Raksha Bandhan a national holiday?
A. No, Raksha Bandhan is not a national or public holiday. This is an optional holiday in some regions where schools and offices may remain closed.
Q. What is the importance of Rakhi?
A. Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi is an important Hindu festival meant especially for brothers and sisters, where sisters tie a thread on her brother’s wrist and pray for their good health and prosperous life. The festival signifies the bond and love shared by a brother and sister or any between any loved ones.
