2023’s Raksha Bandhan: How is the Hindu tradition celebrated?
Embracing the Sacred Bond between Brothers and Sisters on Raksha Bandhan 2023
There’s a unique day on the calendar when the full moon graces the sky and families come together to honor the remarkable bond shared between brothers and sisters. This cherished Hindu tradition not only strengthens family ties but also reminds us of the enduring power of sibling connections.
Rakhi, also known as Raksha Bandhan, stands as one of the oldest and most revered festivals in the Hindu calendar, celebrated by millions across the globe. Emerging as a heartwarming festival between siblings, its significance lies in the promise of protection and care that is reaffirmed each year. Raksha Bandhan, a term derived from Sanskrit, beautifully encapsulates the essence of this tradition – the bond of protection, obligation, and care.
When can we join in the Rakhi festivities in 2023?
Raksha Bandhan finds its place in the Hindu month of Shravana, a period spanning across July and August. This heartfelt celebration consistently aligns itself with the luminous full moon.
In 2023, the festive spirit will grace us on the 30th and 31st of August. It’s worth noting that the Gregorian date of Raksha Bandhan changes annually due to its alignment with the lunar cycle of the Hindu calendar.
Exploring the roots of this heartwarming tradition
Behind the radiant festivities of Raksha Bandhan lies the captivating tale of Lord Krishna and his dear friend Draupadi. Their friendship set an example for profound camaraderie between genders. In this ancient narrative, Lord Krishna’s finger bears a cut from a sacred discus, and Draupadi, quick to her aid, binds his wound with the end of her saree. In return for this compassionate gesture, Lord Krishna pledges eternal protection to Draupadi. This pledge, as time unfolds, becomes a timeless symbol of devotion.
Building upon this poignant origin story, sisters today continue this tradition by delicately tying sacred threads, known as rakhis, around their brothers’ wrists.
Unveiling the tapestry of Raksha Bandhan celebrations
Raksha Bandhan’s customs often include fasting, though participation in this practice is not obligatory. Fasting is regarded as a heartfelt blessing upon one’s sibling, a wish for their enduring health and vitality.
Central to the ceremony is the puja thali, an ornate plate adorned with essentials like roli, diya (lamp), sweets, rice grains, and of course, the indispensable rakhis. Sisters lovingly apply tikkas to their brothers’ foreheads and then tie the sacred thread, all accompanied by heartfelt prayers. In return, brothers offer tokens of affection and promises of protection.
Modern twists on a timeless tradition
In recent years, Raksha Bandhan has expanded its horizons to encompass a broader audience. It now celebrates not only the bond between biological siblings but also the notions of loyalty and affection that extend to chosen family and friends.
This shift has also led to the evolution of rakhi designs, offering a range of choices to suit diverse tastes.
Participating in the Rakhi festivities
While Raksha Bandhan is widely celebrated in India, its essence primarily lies within intimate family settings as a cherished display of love and respect between sisters and brothers. This sentiment often translates into private ceremonies, starting with a solemn prayer ritual. Sisters tenderly tie rakhis around their brothers’ wrists, apply tikka on their foreheads, exchange well wishes, and offer prayers for one another’s happiness and prosperity.
Sending Forth Raksha Bandhan Blessings
On this enchanting day, siblings and friends exchange heartfelt wishes for each other’s future happiness and success. A few classic messages that resonate with the spirit of Raksha Bandhan include:
“May your journey through life be forever shielded from harm. Happy Raksha Bandhan, dear brother. May our bond continue to thrive.”
“May the unbreakable thread of affection between us always remain resilient. Wishing you a joyous Raksha Bandhan!”
“On this Raksha Bandhan, I send you my heartfelt wishes for happiness and success in all your endeavors. Happy Raksha Bandhan, dear brother.”
“As we celebrate Raksha Bandhan, I want you to know that you’re not just the best brother, but also my confidant and friend. With love and affection, happy Raksha Bandhan!”
Raksha Bandhan 2023 is approaching, and with it comes the chance to celebrate the remarkable bond and love shared between brothers and sisters. In a world where relationships can be complex, this sacred tradition reminds us of the enduring strength of family ties and the promise of unwavering protection and care. So, as the full moon graces the sky, let us come together to weave new threads of love, strengthen existing bonds, and celebrate the beauty of the sibling connection.
By: M Z Hossain, Editor Sky Buzz Feed
