Raksha Bandhan is a Hindu custom
marking the love and affection between brothers and sisters. It is
celebrated on "Shravan Sud Poornima" every year according to
the Hindu Calender.
Raksha means Protection , Bandhan means bond. On this day, sisters tie
a colourful 'Rakhi' on the wrists of their brothers. Sisters believe
that this will bring success, peace, and good health to their brothers
throughout the year.
There is no such indication in the Indian History that when and how
this custom started. But it is said that there was a war between the
Gods and the devil, and the Gods were on the losing side. At this
particular time Lord Indra called his Guru Brihaspati in his court for
help and advice. At the same time Indra wife Indrani was also present in
the court. Before Brihaspati could say anything Indrani rose and said
that she knew that how to assure God's win in the battle. The next day
was Shravani Purnima. When Indra was off to the battlefield, Indrani
tied a "Madadiyu" a sacred thread on wrist on Indra. When
Indra entered the battlefield with the "Madadiyu" tied on his
wrist, the devil begin to lose and lost the battle.
Many days before this festival shops start selling Rakhi in all colours
and design, from ordinary ones to the ones in Silver and Gold.
Sisters buy Rakhi for their brother and on Raksha Bandhan Day tie them
on the wrist of their brother praying for his success. Brothers on their
part take a vow to protect their sister, and a symbol of his love gives
a gift to his sister. |
