Raksha Bandhan is one of the most beloved Indian festivals that highlights the eternal bond of love, trust, and protection between brothers and sisters. Celebrated with immense enthusiasm across India, this auspicious occasion is more than a traditional ritual—it is a reaffirmation of family values and emotional unity. One of the most touching historical legends tied to this festival is that of Maharani Karnavati of Mewar, who sent a rakhi to Mughal emperor Humayun, seeking his protection. The gesture moved him so deeply that he rushed to her aid, underlining the strength and respect symbolized by the rakhi. In 2025, Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on 9th August, which falls on a Saturday, making it a perfect day for families to reunite and partake in the joyous celebrations. This date marks the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Shravana, a period known for several spiritually significant festivals.
Across the country, Raksha Bandhan is observed with diverse customs, but the core sentiment remains the same—the celebration of sibling love. Sisters tie rakhi threads on their brothers' wrists, offer prayers for their long life and prosperity, and in return, brothers vow to protect them and often shower them with thoughtful gifts. The festival has also evolved with time, now being celebrated not only among siblings by blood but also among those who share a bond of mutual respect and affection. Raksha Bandhan continues to play an important role in reinforcing positive societal values, reminding us of the importance of emotional connections in an increasingly digital world. As Raksha Bandhan 2025 approaches, families across India and the world will come together to honor this timeless tradition, strengthening relationships and creating lasting memories.
Schedule of 2025 Rakhi Celebration in India
Raksha Bandhan in 2025 will be celebrated across India on Saturday, 9th August. Falling on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Shravana, this date marks a special occasion for brothers and sisters to come together, exchange gifts, and celebrate their bond of love and protection with heartfelt rituals and traditions.
Meaning of Raksha Bandhan
The name "Raksha Bandhan" is derived from two words: "Raksha," which means protection, and "Bandhan," which means to tie. So, Raksha Bandhan translates to "the tie or knot of protection." On this special day, sisters tie a sacred thread called a "rakhi" around their brothers' wrists. This thread symbolises the sisters' love, prayers, and wishes for their brothers' well-being, while the brothers promise to protect and support their sisters throughout their lives.
The cultural significance of this festival is that it gets various names like - Saluno, Rakri and many others in different parts of India where there are minute changes in how people celebrate this day. For example, an interesting ritual associated with Saluno includes the sisters placing a few shoots of barley behind the ears of their brothers. The main purpose of such rituals is to ensure the well-being of their brothers. However, the main crux of this incredible festival is to celebrate the bond of love and harmony among the siblings.
History of Raksha Bandhan Festival
The mythological history of Raksha Bandhan traces its roots back to the time of Mahabharata. Legend has it that while handling sugarcane, Krishna cut his finger, and it started bleeding. Witnessing this scene, his queen Rukmani immediately sent someone to get the bandages. Meanwhile, Draupadi, watching all this, came to his rescue. She tore a section of her saree and wrapped Krishna's bleeding finger with it. It was then, in return, that Lord Krishna promised to protect her whenever required. And, when the abrupt disrobing event with Draupadi happened, Lord Krishna helped her save her honour.
Importance of Raksha Bandhan
Among Various Religions in India
- Hinduism: Raksha Bandhan is predominantly celebrated by Hindus in northern and western parts of India, as well as in Nepal, Pakistan, and Mauritius.
- Jainism: Jain priests give ceremonial threads to their followers during this festival.
- Sikhism: Sikhs also observe this festival, calling it "Rakhardi" or "Rakhari."
Origin of Raksha Bandhan
The festival has ancient origins and is associated with numerous legends and stories.
Indra Dev and Sachi
According to the Bhavishya Purana, Lord Indra's wife, Sachi, tied a holy thread around his wrist during a fierce battle between gods and demons. This sacred thread empowered Indra to defeat the demons.
King Bali and Goddess Lakshmi
In the Bhagavata Purana, Lord Vishnu stayed with the demon king Bali. Goddess Lakshmi tied a rakhi to Bali to bring him back home, making him her brother. In return, Bali allowed Vishnu to return to his heavenly abode.
Santoshi Maa
Lord Ganesha's sons, Shubh and Labh, expressed their desire for a sister. Responding to their wish, Ganesha created Santoshi Maa and celebrated Raksha Bandhan together.
Krishna and Draupadi
In the Mahabharata, Draupadi tied a rakhi to Lord Krishna, and Kunti tied one to her grandson Abhimanyu before the great war.
Yama and the Yamuna
The death god Yama did not visit his sister Yamuna for 12 years. When he finally did, she was so happy that he promised to visit her regularly and made her immortal.
Rani Karnavati and Emperor Humayun
Among the many tales of Raksha Bandhan, the story of Rani Karnavati and Emperor Humayun gets our attention the most, perhaps because it is of great historical importance.
It so happened that Maharani Karnavati was the regent of Mewar and was appointed to carry the administration duties after the death of her beloved husband, Ranga Sanga. When Bahadur Shah attacked Mewar the second time, Rani Karnavati, fearing that her kingdom would be defeated and she would lose everything, reached out to other rulers for her kingdom's protection.
The Maharani also approached Humayun by sending him a rakhi. This holy thread signified a deep bond of affection that a sister shares with her brother. Seeing the Queen's gesture, Humayun assured him he would be helping her on the battlefield. However, the Mughal emperor was stuck in the middle of another military campaign in Bengal. Thus, he couldn't reach on time to help the Queen, and Maharani Karnavati lost the battle, consequentially giving herself to the fire of Jauhar.
Major Attractions of Raksha Bandhan Celebrations in India
Especially for this festival, the shopkeepers decorate the bazaars with great enthusiasm. Girls start shopping early, hoping to purchase the best rakhi for their brothers. They look for the most colourful and vivid rakhi pieces, and of course, they also expect a gift in return for their trust and bond of love.
Read More : Happy Raksha Bandhan Wishes, Quotes And Messages
Family Get-Togethers and New Clothes
Everyone wears new clothes on this auspicious day of Rakhi while enjoying fun family get-togethers. The atmosphere is filled with joy and laughter as families celebrate this special occasion.
Raksha Bandhan Rituals
Raksha Bandhan rituals involve lighting a Diya in an earthen lamp. The main purpose of lighting the lamp is to represent the fire deity. Prayers for the well-being of the brothers are performed. The sister sweetly feeds a portion of sweets to her brother, and then, after the rituals are over, she ties the rakhi around his wrist.
Traditional Food
In our culture, every festival is associated with its specific food, and the celebration of Raksha Bandhan is no exception. Raksha Bandhan cuisine consists of many delicious items like Vermicelli Kheer, Vegetable Pancakes, Pakoras, Mal Pua, Khoya Burfi, and Tamarind Rice. These delicious dishes add to the festive spirit and make the day even more special.
In conclusion, Raksha Bandhan is a beautiful festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. It is a special day when sisters tie a rakhi on their brother's wrists, and brothers promise to protect them. The Rakhi festival 2025 will be full of joy and love as families celebrate this special tradition. This festival reminds us of siblings' strong bond of love and care. It is a time to show appreciation and strengthen family ties.
Frequently Asked Questions About Raksha Bandhan Festival
Q1: Which date is Rakhi festival?
A1: Rakhi festival, also known as Raksha Bandhan, will be celebrated on Saturday, 9th August 2025 in India.
Q2: Which state festival is Raksha Bandhan?
A2: Raksha Bandhan is a pan-India festival celebrated across all states, but it holds special cultural significance in North Indian states like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Delhi.
Q3: What is the significance of Raksha Bandhan?
A6: The significance of Raksha Bandhan lies in celebrating the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. It symbolizes love, protection, and mutual respect. By tying a rakhi, sisters pray for their brother’s well-being, while brothers vow to protect and support their sisters throughout life.
Q4: What is the real message of Raksha Bandhan?
A4: The real message of Raksha Bandhan is to honor and strengthen the bond of love, care, and mutual protection between siblings, symbolizing unity, trust, and familial harmony.
Q5: What is the short story for Raksha Bandhan?
A5: A famous short story of Raksha Bandhan is about Maharani Karnavati of Mewar, who sent a rakhi to Mughal Emperor Humayun seeking protection from an invasion. Touched by her gesture, Humayun rushed to help her, showing the deep emotional and protective significance of the festival.
