It is a festival of siblings which is mainly prevalent in Hindus but it is celebrated by the people of all faiths with equal enthusiasm and happiness. The atmosphere of the day is worth seeing in all over India. It is a big and most traditional festival which is still celebrated with much gaiety.
The festival celebrated on the full moon of Hindu month of Shravan (July- August) is a symbol of love for brother’s sister. On Raksha Bandhan, sisters tie Rakhi on the right wrist of brothers, put the tilak on their forehead and then take the resolution of own protection from them.
Historical significance
There are several references to the importance of Raksha Bandhan in history. Rakhi was sent by Karmawati (the queen of Mewar) to Humayun (the Mughal King) for defense-solicitation. Notwithstanding the Muslim, Humayun respected the thread of Rakhi.
It is also said that Sikander’s wife tied rakhi on the wrist of her husband’s Hindu enemy Puru and had made him brother and took the commitment from him not to kill Sikander in times of war. So, having the respect of Rakhi and promise given to his sister (Sikander’s wife), Puru gave lifeline to Sikander during the war.
Celebrations and Rituals of Rakhi
This pious festival is celebrated with the full of excitement. The shops are decorated with the variety of colorful Rakhis in advance. Sisters do the shopping and Rakhi preparations quite early. They shop for gifts, sweets and chocolates along with Rakhi for their brothers.
As per the custom and old tradition, on this auspicious day, sisters prepare a Rakhi Thali (plate) with a diya (earthen lamp), water, roli (red threads), rice, vermilion or turmeric powder and some sweets. Thereafter, they perform the Aaarti ritual and apply tika of Roli & chawal on the brother’s forehead and tie the thread of Rakhi on his wrist. At the end, sisters offer sweets to their brothers which symbolize good luck to the brother. Also, brothers in return give some sweet or gift and take the vow of caring his sister in the time of need.
Rakhi Recipes
This event is also executed with different kind of sweets and festive food. As it is an Indian festival which is celebrated all over country under different names and rituals, special regional recipes for Rakhi can be found in the market. The most popular and mouth watering delicacies which are commonly used on this fest are Balushahi, Coconut Burfi, Rakhi Ghevar, Rakhi Gujia, Rava Laddu, Kheer recipe and Mal Pua Recipe.
