Raksha Bandhan 2023: Raksha Bandhan is a Hindu festival that honors the bond of affection and protection between brothers and sisters, or, alternatively, celebrates this bond. Literally, “Raksha Bandhan” means “the bond of protection.” It is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravana, which typically occurs in August of the Gregorian calendar.
On the auspicious day of Raksha Bandhan, sisters tie a sacred thread known as a “Rakhi” around the wrists of their brothers. The rakhi represents the sister’s affection and prayers for her brother’s well-being. In exchange, the brother gives his sister gifts and pledges to protect and support her for the rest of her life.
Raksha Bandhan is observed by more than just biological siblings. Additionally, it can be observed by cousins, close friends, and even adopted siblings and sisters. The festival emphasizes the significance of the sibling relationship and promotes love, care, and protection within the family.
On the day of Raksha Bandhan, families gather and sisters perform aarti (a worship ritual) for their brothers. They affix the rakhi to their brother’s wrists, present him with candies and gifts, and pray for his long and prosperous life. In return, siblings express their affection for their sisters with gifts. The celebration is marked by happiness, hilarity, and the strengthening of sibling relationships.
In recent years, individuals from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds have also celebrated Raksha Bandhan as a symbol of love and unity. It has transcended religious boundaries and is now revered by people of diverse faiths in India and around the world.
Hindu Calendar 2024: Important Dates of Festivals and Tithis as per Panchang
Raksha Bandhan 2023: Date
Raksha Bandhan is a Hindu festival that honors the bond of affection and protection between brothers and sisters, or, alternatively, celebrates this bond. The celebration is held annually on Purnima Tithi (Full Moon day) in the month of Shravan. Raksha Bandhan will be observed on Wednesday, August 30th, 2023.
Raksha Bandhan (Rakhi) 2023 auspicious time
After 9:01 PM for the Raksha Bandhan Thread Ceremony
| Raksha Bandhan Thread Ceremony Time | After 09:01 PM |
| Raksha Bandhan Bhadra End Time | 09:01 PM |
| Raksha Bandhan Bhadra Punchha | 05:30 PM to 06:31 PM |
| Raksha Bandhan Bhadra Mukha | 06:31 PM to 08:11 PM |
Muhurat is available only when Bhadra ends after Pradosh.
| Purnima Tithi Begins | 10:58 AM on Aug 30, 2023 |
| Purnima Tithi Ends | 07:05 AM on Aug 31, 2023 |
Raksha Bandhan 2023 Choghadiya time
| Labha – Gain | 05:58 AM to 07:34 AM |
| Amrita – Best | 07:34 AM to 09:10 AM |
| Shubha – Good | 10:46 AM to 12:22 PM |
| Chara – Neutral | 03:33 PM to 05:09 PM |
| Labha – Gain | 05:09 PM to 06:45 PM |
| Shubha – Good | 08:09 PM to 09:34 PM |
| Amrita – Best | 09:34 PM to 10:58 PM |
| Chara – Neutral | 10:58 PM to 12:22 AM, Aug 31 |
| Labha – Gain | 03:10 AM to 04:34 AM, Aug 31 Kaal Ratri |
Raksha Bandhan 2023: Time To Avoid
People must avoid the Bhadra period, which typically falls during the day’s early first half.
Raksha Bandhan: Signification
Raksha Bandhan is a traditional Hindu festival that honors the connection between siblings. The name of the celebration is derived from the Sanskrit terms “Raksha” meaning “protection” and “Bandhan” meaning “bond” or “tie.”
Raksha Bandhan: History
The festival is steeped in mythological and historical significance. In ancient times, it is believed that queens and noblewomen would send rakhi threads to neighboring monarchs as a sign of their alliance and protection. Although the precise historical origins of Raksha Bandhan are not well-documented, the festival has mythological and historical legends as its foundations. Here are several well-known tales associated with Raksha Bandhan:
The couple Indra and Indrani
According to a myth, the god of the sky, rain, and thunderbolts, Indra, was on the verge of defeat in a battle against the powerful demon ruler, Bali. Sachi, also known as Indrani, the wife of Indra, tied a protective cotton thread (Rakhi) around his wrist to shield him. Lord Vishnu, according to the scriptures, gave her the sacred thread. With her assistance, Indra emerged victorious, and the act of binding the thread became a symbol of sibling protection and affection.
The couple Krishna and Draupadi
Another well-known legend is found in the Mahabharata. Lord Krishna unintentionally cut his finger on the Sudarshan Chakra during a battle. The wife of the five Pandavas, Draupadi, tore a piece of her saree and tied it around Krishna’s finger to halt the bleeding. Krishna, moved by her kindness, vowed to protect and assist Draupadi whenever she needed him. This event is frequently cited as an illustration of the relationship between a sibling and sister.
The rivers Yama and Yamuna
Yamuna, the river deity, tied a Rakhi to her brother Yama, the god of death, according to a different legend. Yama, moved by her love and affection, granted her the boon that any sibling who receives a Rakhi from his sister and vows to protect her will be granted eternal life.
The gods Lakshmi and Bali
Raksha Bandhan is a Hindu holiday that honors the affection between brothers and sisters. According to the legend surrounding King Bali and Goddess Lakshmi, the King was a generous and virtuous monarch. The Hindu deity of wealth and prosperity, deity Lakshmi, was pleased with his righteousness and decided to protect him. She assumed the identity of a Brahmin woman and wound a sacred thread (rakhi) around the wrist of King Bali, thereby becoming his sister. King Bali, moved by her kindness, vowed to protect her. This narrative symbolizes the unbreakable bond between siblings and the significance of their mutual protection and care.
These tales and legends have contributed to the symbolism and significance of Raksha Bandhan. On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread (Rakhi) around the wrists of their siblings, and brothers offer gifts and pledge to protect their sisters. It is a celebration of affection, protection, and the sibling bond.
Rakhi (Raksha Bandhan) significance
Raksha Bandhan is a significant Hindu festival observed throughout India and the Indian subcontinent. It is a traditional Hindu celebration that honors the tie between siblings. “Raksha Bandhan” means “the bond of protection” or “a knot of protection.”
Increasing the bond
Raksha Bandhan is a festival that honors the special bond between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread known as a “Rakhi” around the wrists of their brothers as a symbol of affection, protection, and goodwill. It represents the unbreakable bond of affection and the obligation of brothers to safeguard their sisters.
Safekeeping and Security
The Rakhi thread symbolizes the sister’s prayers for her brother’s health and serves as a reminder for him to safeguard and protect his sister from any damage. It is believed to possess protective properties and functions as a talisman to ward off malevolent influences.
Communicating Love and Affection
Raksha Bandhan gives siblings the opportunity to express their love, concern, and affection for one another. Brothers frequently give their sisters gifts or promise to protect them, while sisters pray for their brothers’ well-being and prosperity.
Reunion with the extended family
Raksha Bandhan draws together families. It is a time for siblings to commemorate their relationship regardless of geographic distance. Gathering together, exchanging gifts, and sharing a meal strengthens overall familial bonds.
Symbol of Unity and Harmony
Raksha Bandhan promotes social harmony and unity beyond the immediate family. It emphasizes the significance of harmonious human coexistence by encouraging individuals to look out for and protect one another.
Mythological and Historical Significance
Raksha Bandhan is rooted in history and mythology. During times of conflict, it is believed that queens and women in ancient India would send Rakhis to neighboring kings as a plea for protection. Several mythological stories, including the tale of Lord Krishna and Draupadi, illustrate the significance of Raksha Bandhan.
Raksha Bandhan is significant among India’s other religions.
Raksha Bandhan is a significant festival celebrated in India, primarily by Hindus, but it is also significant to other religions and communities. Its influence has extended to other religious groups, fostering a spirit of unity and harmony.
The Hindu faith
Raksha Bandhan has profound roots in Hindu mythology and culture. It is celebrated predominantly as a symbol of the relationship between brothers and sisters. Sisters tie a sacred thread known as “rakhi” around the wrists of their brothers, and in exchange, brothers pledge to protect and support their sisters. This festival symbolizes the affection, concern, and mutual regard between siblings.
The Jainism
The Jains also celebrate Raksha Bandhan. This festival is observed by Jains as a reminder of their commitment to protecting all living things, in keeping with their belief in nonviolence. They place rakhi on the wrists of their peers and family members as a symbol of their commitment to preserve and cultivate their relationships.
The Sikhism faith
Sikhs celebrate Raksha Bandhan with tremendous zeal as “Rakhri” or “Rakhardi” As a sign of affection and protection, Sikhs place rakhis on the wrists of their loved ones. The celebration highlights the significance of altruistic service, compassion, and brotherhood.
The Buddhism
Despite the fact that Raksha Bandhan is not extensively observed by Buddhists, there are instances of its observance in certain regions of India. It represents the bond of companionship and protection, fostering harmony and goodwill among people.
Raksha Bandhan 2023 Puja Vidhi
As a sign of purity, take a bath and don spotless clothing before beginning the puja.
Make ready the Puja Thali
Rakhi threads, Rice grains, Kumkum (vermilion) or sandalwood paste, Akshat (unbroken rice grains), Sweets or any other offerings, Diya (lamp) and incense sticks should be placed on a thali (plate). Candle the Diya: As a symbol of divine presence, light the diya and the incense sticks.
Offer Worship
Offer Lord Ganesha prayers and request his blessings for a prosperous and auspicious ceremony. You may recite the Ganesh mantra or any other familiar supplication.
Consider Tilak and Aarti
While reciting aarti mantras or singing devotional melodies, apply tilak (kumkum or sandalwood paste) to your brother’s forehead and perform an aarti by rotating the thali clockwise around him while chanting aarti mantras.
Fasten the Rakhi
Take the Rakhi thread and tie it around the right wrist of your sibling. While binding the Rakhi, you can also express your love and affection for your brother.
Swap Sweets and Presents
After tying the Rakhi, give your brother gifts and sweets as a token of your appreciation and affection. In exchange, your brother may also present you with gifts or tokens of affection.
Pursue Blessings
As a sign of respect and appreciation, a younger sibling should take his sister’s blessings and touch her feet.
Share a Dish
Prepare a special meal or your brother’s favored dishes, and enjoy a family meal together.
The following are general instructions for conducting the Raksha Bandhan puja. Depending on regional traditions and family preferences, certain rituals and customs may vary. It is always a good idea to consult elders or family members regarding any specific customs or rituals your family may observe.
Raksha Bandhan 2023: Mantra
While tying Rakhi to a sibling, a sister must recite the following mantra:
The phrase “Yen Badho Balli Raja, Danvendro Mahabalah”
Ten Tvaamabhibadhnaami Rakshe Maachal’
The Raksha Mantra has the following significance:
“I bind you with the same Raksha thread that bound Bali, the monarch of courage and the king of demons. “O Raksha (Raksha Sutra), please remain fixed throughout the entire year.”
