Raksha means Protection and Bandhan means Bond, thus the bond of protection is called Raksha Bandhan. Raksha Bandhan reinforces the love between brothers and sisters. It is celebrated in India in the month of Shravan and on Purnima day so it is also called “Shravani Purnima”.
Raksha Bandhan symbolizes love, care, duty and affection between brothers and sisters. The main focus of this fest is “Rakhi” which is made of sacred thread decorated with colorful stones and other decoration materials. The preparation for this famous festival starts many days before as markets in India are filled with unique and colorful Rakhis, gifts and sweets during Raksha Bandhan period. Generally, sisters buy Rakhi or sometimes they make it themselves for their brothers. They wear new clothes in the morning. Prepare “Pooja thal” with Deepak, Roli, Chawal, Sweets and Rakhi. First, the sister tie Rakhi around her brother’s wrist and put tilak on his forehead, perform an aarti and then makes a wish for the well-being, good health, life long prosperity and wealth of their brothers. They also get in return some exciting gifts, surprises and commitment of unconditional protection whenever required in future.
This holy festival is celebrated between siblings and also distance family members to express their unconditional love and affection towards each other. Many sisters, who live across cities, countries and ocean from their brothers, send Rakhi through post, mail etc.
This cultural festival helps us to realize the importance of our close ones. Raksha Bandhan is a festival of brothers and sisters unconditional love for each other.
Some of the Sweet Raksha Bandhan recipes are:
DOUBLE LAYERED CHOCOLATE CUSTARD