Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi Purnima, is one of the most cherished and spiritually significant festivals in Hinduism. More than a festival of tying threads, it is a celebration of eternal promises, of duty, love, and protection between brothers and sisters. The word “Raksha” means protection and “Bandhan” means bond — symbolizing a sacred vow of safeguarding the dignity and honor of women.
The festival is rooted in deep mythological origins, finds mention in scriptures, and has evolved to encompass social and nationalistic relevance in modern times. Let us explore this multi-layered celebration through scriptures, legends, history, and present-day practices.
What is Raksha Bandhan?
Raksha Bandhan is observed on the full moon day (Purnima) of the month of Shravana (July–August). On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread (rakhi) on the wrists of their brothers, applying tilak on the forehead and praying for their prosperity, while the brothers promise to protect their sisters from all harm.
However, this sacred festival is far more than a simple familial celebration — it is a ritual act steeped in symbolism, with deep roots in Vedic, Puranic, and Itihasic texts.
Scriptural References of Raksha Bandhan
Here are some important references to Raksha Bandhan or the idea of protective sacred threads as seen in various Hindu scriptures:
📜 Scriptural Mentions (in bullet points for blogging compatibility):
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Bhavishya Purana:
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A major reference to Raksha Bandhan is found in the Bhavishya Purana, where it describes a war between gods and demons. Lord Indra’s wife Sachi (also called Indrani) tied a sacred thread on Indra’s wrist, empowered by sacred mantras from a Brahmin priest. Indra won the battle — and this protective thread became a symbol of divine protection.
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Vishnu Purana:
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When Lord Vishnu took up residence at the demon king Bali’s palace to honor his promise, Goddess Lakshmi, in disguise, tied a rakhi on Bali’s wrist and revealed her identity. Touched by her gesture, Bali asked her wish, and she requested that Lord Vishnu be returned to Vaikuntha. This legend ties Raksha Bandhan with bhakti (devotion) and the power of vows.
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Bhagavata Purana:
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During the episode where Krishna injured his finger while using his Sudarshan Chakra, Draupadi tore a piece of her saree and tied it to his bleeding finger. Krishna accepted this as a rakhi and pledged to protect her always, which he fulfilled during the Vastra Haran in the Kaurava court.
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Mahabharata:
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Although no direct rakhi-tying ceremony is described, the bond between Draupadi and Krishna is a classic illustration of Raksha Bandhan’s essence — of protection, dignity, and divine companionship.
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Historical References of Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan is not only a religious tradition but also holds historical significance. Several important events from Indian history are associated with this festival:
🕰 Historical Events and References:
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Rani Karnavati and Emperor Humayun (1535 CE):
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One of the most famous stories associated with Raksha Bandhan comes from 16th-century Rajputana. Rani Karnavati, the widowed queen of Chittor, sent a rakhi to Mughal Emperor Humayun seeking his protection against the invasion of Bahadur Shah. Honoring the rakhi, Humayun immediately set out to defend Chittor. Though he could not save the fort in time, the gesture marks Raksha Bandhan as a political and cultural bridge beyond blood relations.
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Rabindranath Tagore and Rakhi in 1905:
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During the Bengal Partition by Lord Curzon, Rabindranath Tagore used Raksha Bandhan as a tool to promote unity between Hindus and Muslims. He encouraged people of different communities to tie rakhi as a symbol of brotherhood and unity against colonial forces. This act elevated Raksha Bandhan to a symbol of national integration and anti-imperial resistance.
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Modern Relevance and Transformations of Raksha Bandhan
In today’s world, Raksha Bandhan has evolved from its traditional mold into a broader, more inclusive celebration of trust, duty, love, and social responsibility.
🌟 Modern Significance:
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Beyond Blood Relations:
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Today, rakhi is not restricted to siblings. Friends, neighbors, even soldiers and social workers receive rakhi from women as a sign of trust and gratitude.
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Empowerment of Women:
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Rakhi is also viewed as a symbol of women's dignity and autonomy, where women are respected not as dependents but as sacred beings worthy of protection and honor.
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Cultural Identity and Unity:
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Raksha Bandhan continues to unify people across regions and languages, from urban cities to rural villages. It reflects India’s collective value of dharma (duty) and samskara (culture).
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Raksha Bandhan and Indian Armed Forces:
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Many schools and civil societies send rakhi to soldiers, acknowledging their role as protectors of the nation. This custom has been encouraged in recent decades as a gesture of national gratitude.
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Corporate and Educational Institutions:
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Offices and schools now celebrate Raksha Bandhan as "Bond of Harmony" day to promote goodwill and peace, regardless of gender.
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Rituals and Observances of Raksha Bandhan
The celebration of Raksha Bandhan involves various rituals steeped in traditional Vedic customs:
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Fasting and Bathing:
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On the morning of Shravan Purnima, sisters take an early bath, often after a short vrat (fast), and prepare a thali with diya, roli, rice, sweets, and rakhi.
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Applying Tilak:
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A sacred tilak is applied on the brother’s forehead, followed by arti with the lamp.
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Tying the Rakhi:
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The rakhi is tied on the brother’s right wrist, signifying a sacred promise. In return, brothers give gifts or money and vow to protect their sisters.
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Exchange of Sweets and Blessings:
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Prasad or sweets are offered, and blessings are exchanged. The day often ends with family meals and celebrations.
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Date of Raksha Bandhan in 2025:
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Raksha Bandhan 2025 Date: Monday, August 18, 2025
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Purnima Tithi Starts: Sunday, August 17 at 3:04 PM
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Purnima Tithi Ends: Monday, August 18 at 5:01 PM
Auspicious time (Muhurat) to tie Rakhi: Before 5:01 PM on August 18, avoiding Bhadra period if applicable.
Conclusion
Raksha Bandhan is more than a thread — it is a legacy, a ritualized emotion that binds families, communities, and even the nation in the spirit of protection, trust, and love. From the legends of Indra, Krishna, and Lakshmi to historical events involving emperors and poets, to modern celebrations among soldiers and civilians — the soul of Raksha Bandhan lies in honoring relationships and responsibilities.
In an era when relationships often lose meaning in materialism, Raksha Bandhan reminds us of the sacred duty we have toward one another — to protect, respect, and support with love and loyalty.
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