About Raksha Bandhan
A sacred celebration of the eternal bond between brothers and sisters
The Festival of Bonds
Raksha Bandhan, also known simply as Rakhi, is one of the most cherished and culturally significant festivals in India. The name itself reveals its essence - “Raksha“ means protection, and “Bandhan“ signifies bond. This beautiful festival celebrates the unique and sacred relationship between brothers and sisters, symbolizing love, care, and lifelong commitment to protect each other.
History and Origin
The origins of Raksha Bandhan can be traced back thousands of years in Indian mythology and history. Several legends are associated with this festival:
Indra Dev and Sachi
According to Hindu mythology, when Indra Dev (King of Gods) was losing a battle against demons, his wife Sachi tied a sacred thread blessed by Lord Vishnu around his wrist. This thread protected him and led to his victory.
Queen Karnavati and Emperor Humayun
In the 16th century, the widowed Queen Karnavati of Chittor sent a rakhi to Mughal Emperor Humayun seeking protection from invaders. Touched by this gesture, Humayun immediately set out with his troops to defend her kingdom.
Yama and Yamuna
Another legend tells of Yama, the God of Death, who was so moved when his sister Yamuna tied a rakhi on his wrist that he granted her immortality and declared that brothers who receive rakhis will be blessed with health and prosperity.
Significance of Rakhi
Raksha Bandhan transcends being merely a ritual; it embodies profound values and commitments:
Protection
The brother pledges to protect his sister from all harms and difficulties throughout life, standing by her side in times of need.
Unconditional Love
The festival celebrates the pure, selfless love between siblings that remains steadfast despite disagreements or distance.
Lifelong Bond
Rakhi symbolizes a connection that lasts a lifetime, with siblings supporting each other through all of life's journeys.
Beyond Blood Relations
In modern times, Rakhi has transcended blood relationships, with people tying rakhis to those they consider brothers, regardless of biological connection.
How to Celebrate Raksha Bandhan
The celebration of Raksha Bandhan follows a beautiful sequence of traditions:
Preparation
Sisters purchase or make special rakhis for their brothers, while brothers buy gifts for their sisters.
The Ceremony
On the day of the festival, sisters perform an aarti (prayer ritual) for their brothers, apply tilak (colored mark) on their foreheads, and tie the rakhi around their wrists while praying for their well-being.
Exchange of Sweets
Brothers and sisters feed each other sweets, symbolizing the sweetness in their relationship.
Gifts and Promises
Brothers present gifts to their sisters and renew their promise to protect and support them.
Family Celebration
The day is celebrated with family gatherings, special meals, and sharing of stories and memories.
How to Tie Rakhi
The ritual of tying a rakhi is simple yet profound:
Begin with a prayer or aarti, with the brother seated facing east.
Apply a tilak (red mark) and rice grains on the brother's forehead.
Hold the rakhi against the brother's right wrist.
Wrap the threads around the wrist, typically making three knots.
While tying, recite a prayer for the brother's well-being.
Complete the ritual by offering sweets to each other.
Celebrating Rakhi in Ireland
As the Indian diaspora in Ireland grows, Raksha Bandhan has become an important cultural celebration that bridges traditions across continents:
Community Celebrations
Indian communities across Dublin, Cork, Galway, and other Irish cities organize Rakhi events where families gather to celebrate together, especially important for those whose siblings are back in India.
Cultural Exchange
Many Irish people have embraced this beautiful tradition, with some participating in Rakhi celebrations with their Indian friends and colleagues, fostering cultural understanding.
Long-Distance Celebrations
For those separated by distance, sending rakhis by mail or celebrating virtually has become common, ensuring that the tradition continues despite geographical barriers.
Rakhi in 2025
In 2025, Raksha Bandhan falls on Saturday, August 9. It is celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu lunar month of Shravana. The lunar Purnima Tithi begins on the afternoon of August 8 and continues through August 9, but the festival is observed on the morning of August 9 per traditional (Udaya) reckoning.
The Enduring Tradition
Raksha Bandhan continues to thrive as a beautiful celebration of sibling love across generations and geographical boundaries. In our fast-paced modern world, it serves as a meaningful reminder of the importance of family bonds and the timeless values of protection, love, and mutual respect.
Whether celebrated in a traditional Indian household or adapted to new settings around the world, the essence of Rakhi remains the same – a celebration of one of life's most precious relationships.
Celebrate this Raksha Bandhan with Rakhi for Ireland
Browse our collection of beautiful, traditional and designer rakhis to celebrate this special bond.
