Rakshabandhan is a popular,
traditionally Hindu annual ritual, or ceremony, celebrated in India, and
amongst people throughout the world influenced by Hindu culture. On this day,
sisters of all ages tie rakhi, in right wrist of their brothers, symbolically
guarding them, receiving something in return, and brothers take the
responsibility of their possible care to their sisters
Meaning of Rakshabandhan in Sanskrit is, "the bond of protection,
obligation, or care," It is celebrated in "Shrawan Purnima"
Raksha Bandhan is now recognized as a
day to celebrate the pure relationship of a brother and a sister. In history,
the rakhi was just been for Raksha or protection. It could be tied by a
daughter or mother or wife. The Rishis tied rakhi to the people who came
seeking their blessings. The sages tied the holy thread to themselves to
safeguard them from the evil. It is, by all means, the 'Papa Todak, Punya
Pradayak Parva' or the day that gives blessings and end all sins as it is
mentioned in the writings.
History of Rakshabandhan
It is said that the story behind Raksha
Bandhan is during the time of "Devasur Sangram" All gods, goddesses,
and even Indra were kicked out from heaven by evils in the war. Gods were not
so powerful to face powerful evils. They had no options to stay anyplace so
they went to Lord Shiva for solutions. It was this day "ShrawanPurnima" so Mata Parvati quickly tied up a rakhi on the right wrist of all
gods and blessed with more divine powers for war with evils. After having tied
up Raksha sutra (Rakhi), gods fought the war with evils and it kept on going
for thousands of years.
And finally, gods won the war and
Indra took his throne of heaven.
Gods then came over to Kailash for the
darshan of Lord Shiva and Maa Bhagwati.
So, since then "Raksha sutra or Bandhan" on the wrist of her brother is a guarantee always long protection
of brothers and back brother additionally guarantees for
Safety and protection of sisters at
all cost.
Another Story of Rakshabandhan is the
story of Draupadi and Krishna.
It is said that while Sri Krishna was
in a fight with Sishupala, he had his finger cut and Draupadi quickly tore off
a piece of cloth from the pallu of her saree and offered it as a bandage to
prevent the bleeding.
For every thread which she had used to
treat his wound, Lord Krishna promised to repay the cost of every thread.
He had assured Draupadi to help her by
saying, “whenever you need my help I will be always there for you.” Many of the
people believe, the concept of Rakshabandhan came from Draupadi and Krishna.
Krishna not only helped Draupadi
during the 'Vastra apaharana' but also at the time when Durvasa rishi had come
at the Pandavas place during their exile for alms along with his entourage, he
helped her with the 'Akshaya Patra'.
Significance of Rakshabandhan
It is
an amazing Hindu Festival where sisters dress up beautifully to
celebrate this special occasion with their brothers. Sisters also pray for a
wealthy future and a long life for their brothers. Rakhi holds great emotional
and religious significance. The festival keeps the deep-rooted culture of the
country alive, strengthens the relationship between siblings and ensures
togetherness. No such festival is visible anywhere except India.
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