Raksha Bandhan 2024: Raksha Bandhan is a traditional Hindu festival that honors the deep bond between siblings. Celebrated with the tying of a sacred Rakhi, the festival represents the love, protection, and special relationship between siblings. “Raksha Bandhan” means “bond of protection”, where “Raksha” means protection, and “Bandhan” means bond.
Date and Muhurat Time
Purnima Tithi Start – 3:04 am on August 19
Purnima Tithi End – 11:55 pm on August 19
Raksha Bandhan Bhadra tail – 19 August: 9:51 am – 10:53 am
Raksha Bandhan Bhadra face – 19 August: 10:53 am – 12:37 pm
Raksha Bandhan Bhadra end time – 19 August: 1:30 pm
Raksha Bandhan Utsav Timing – 19 August: 1:30 pm – 8:27 pm
Shubh time for Raksha Bandhan Utsav – August 19: 1:30 pm – 3:39 pm
Pradosh Kaal for Raksha Bandhan – August 19: 6:12 pm – 8:27 pm
Significance of Raksha Bandhan:
Celebration of Sibling Love
The love and care shared between siblings is at the heart of Raksha Bandhan. The sister ties a sacred thread called a Rakhi around her brother’s wrist, symbolizing her prayers for his well-being and protection. In return, the brother pledges to protect and support her.
Strengthening Family Bonds
Beyond siblings, Raksha Bandhan is often celebrated with cousins, friends, and even close neighbors who share a bond akin to that of siblings. It reinforces the importance of family and unity.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
The festival has deep roots in Indian mythology and history. Stories of Raksha Bandhan can be found in the Mahabharata, where Draupadi ties a piece of cloth around Lord Krishna’s wrist, and in return, he vows to protect her. Another story is of Queen Karnavati of Mewar, who sent a Rakhi to Emperor Humayun, seeking protection for her kingdom.
Symbol of Unity and Harmony
Raksha Bandhan transcends religious and cultural boundaries in India. People of different communities and faiths celebrate the festival, emphasizing unity and harmony.
Renewal of Commitment
The festival allows siblings to renew their commitment to each other, regardless of distance or time. It’s a reminder of their lifelong support and care.
Gender Equality
In recent times, the festival has evolved, with sisters also tying Rakhis to each other or brothers tying them to their sisters, highlighting the reciprocal nature of protection and care in relationships.
Raksha Bandhan is typically celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravana (July-August). The festival is marked by rituals, prayers, gift exchanges, and, most importantly, the reaffirmation of love and duty between siblings.