Raksha Bandhan 2023: Know when is it, its historical and cultural significance

Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi, is a traditional Hindu festival that holds great significance in India. The festival celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. The word "Raksha Bandhan" itself translates to "the bond of protection." Sister ties a ‘Rakhi’ around her brother's wrist and in return, the brother vows to protect his sister. Raksha Bandhan primarily celebrates the relationship between siblings, regardless of their gender, and the exchange of a sacred thread, rakhi, is a symbol of love and protection.
Today Raksha Bandhan is not just limited to celebrating the bond between biological siblings. It is also celebrated within our communities which is also in line with our Indian cultural ethos of “ Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” which means the entire world is one family.

When is Raksha Bandhan 2023?
It is usually celebrated on the full moon day in the month of Shravana which falls mostly in August, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. This year Raksha Bandhan falls on Wednesday, 30 August as per the Hindu Panchang. The shubh muharat for tying the auspicious knot is from 10:58 A.M.till 9:01 P.M. However, you can celebrate it on 31st August as well for which the shubh muharat is only till 7:05 A.M.
Historical significance
The festival has historical and mythological connections. In Indian history, there are instances where the practice of tying a protective thread or amulet was observed before battles. In Hindu mythology, there are stories that illustrate the importance of the bond between siblings. These stories highlight the themes of protection, love, and duty that are central to the idea of Raksha Bandhan.

Draupadi and Krishna
One well-known tale is that of Lord Krishna and Draupadi, where Krishna came to the aid of Draupadi when she needed protection. Draupadi was the wife of the five Pandavas brothers. According to the Mahabharata, once when Draupadi tore a piece of her saree to bandage Krishna's finger, he was touched by her devotion and love. In return, Krishna promised to protect Draupadi in times of need. Years later, when Draupadi was humiliated in the Kaurava court, Krishna miraculously extended her saree to protect her modesty. This story symbolizes the strong bond between a brother figure, Krishna, and a sister, Draupadi. The festival of Raksha Bandhan is often seen as an extension of this relationship.

Yama and Yamuna
Another story from Hindu mythology involves the bond between Yama, the God of Death, and his sister Yamuna, the river. It is said that Yama was once visited by his sister Yamuna, and he was so moved by her love and affection that he granted her a boon. Yamuna wished that whoever bathed in her waters and offered prayers on the day of Raksha Bandhan would be blessed with protection and longevity. This story reinforces the idea of seeking protection and blessings for loved ones.

Rani Karnavati and Emperor Humayun
This story dates back to the 16th century. Rani Karnavati of Mewar sent a Rakhi to Emperor Humayun, seeking his help against the invasion of Gujarat's Bahadur Shah. Touched by her plea, Humayun immediately rode to her rescue. Although he couldn't reach her in time to save her kingdom, the gesture of brotherly protection is still remembered.

Rabindranath Tagore's initiative
In the early 20th century, Rabindranath Tagore initiated the concept of Raksha Bandhan as a symbol of unity and brotherhood among all communities in India. He believed that tying Rakhi could symbolize a bond of protection not just between biological siblings but between people from different backgrounds.

Swadeshi movement
It was in response to the partition of Bengal under British rule in 1905. The British government wanted to divide Bengal on religious lines. As a show of unity among the Hindus and Muslims, people tied rakhi on each other's wrists.
The primary significance of Raksha Bandhan is the celebration of the bond between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters tie a rakhi around their brothers' wrists, symbolizing their love, care, and protection for each other. Brothers, in return, often give gifts or tokens of appreciation to their sisters. It's a time for siblings to express their affection and strengthen their relationship.
The rakhi thread is not just a decorative element; it holds deeper meanings. By tying the rakhi, sisters invoke a sense of protection from their brothers. In return, the brothers promise to protect their sisters from any harm or difficulties. This exchange signifies a mutual commitment to supporting and looking out for each other.
Raksha Bandhan is deeply rooted in Indian culture and has been celebrated for centuries. It reflects the values of family, love, and unity. Even if siblings are geographically distant, they often make an effort to connect on this day, reinforcing family ties.
While Raksha Bandhan is traditionally focused on the bond between biological brothers and sisters, the festival has evolved to celebrate various relationships. It can also be observed between cousins and friends, and even as a gesture of goodwill between people who consider each other as siblings in a broader sense. It transcends religious and cultural boundaries. It has become a symbol of unity, reminding people of the importance of relationships and the shared values of love and protection.
Overall, Raksha Bandhan is a heartwarming celebration that emphasizes the significance of relationships, particularly the bond between siblings, and promotes the values of love, care, and protection