Raksha Bandhan, a heartwarming Hindu festival, celebrates the bond of love and protection between brothers and sisters. This joyous occasion typically falls in the month of August and this year it falls on “19th August 2024” and involves a sacred ritual where sisters tie a colorful thread, known as a rakhi, around their brothers’ wrists.
The rakhi symbolizes the sister’s love, prayers for her brother’s well-being, and the brother’s promise to protect her. In return, brothers offer gifts and a lifelong commitment to safeguard their sisters. Raksha Bandhan transcends biological ties, extending to friends and even distant relatives who share a brother-sister relationship. The festival embodies the essence of love, care, and the enduring connection between siblings, fostering a sense of family unity and cultural richness.
Raksha Bandhan 2024 Puja Date and Time
Raksha Bandhan 2024 |
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| Event | Date & Time | Day |
| Raksha Bandhan 2024 | Aug 19, 2024 | Monday |
| Raksha Bandhan Thread Ceremony Time | 01:30 PM to 09:08 PM | Monday |
| Aparahna Time Raksha Bandhan Muhurat | 01:43 PM to 04:20 PM | Monday |
| Pradosh Time Raksha Bandhan Muhurat | 06:56 PM to 09:08 PM | Monday |
| Raksha Bandhan Bhadra End Time | 1:30 PM | Monday |
| Raksha Bandhan Bhadra Punchha | 09:51 AM to 10:53 AM | Monday |
| Raksha Bandhan Bhadra Mukha | 10:53 AM to 12:37 PM | Monday |
| Purnima Tithi Begins | 03:04 AM on Aug 19, 2024 | Monday |
| Purnima Tithi Ends | 11:55 PM on Aug 19, 2024 | Monday |
3 Popular Stories about Raksha Bandhan
Krishna and Draupadi
In ancient times, during the great Indian epic Mahabharata, there’s a famous story about Lord Krishna and Draupadi. Once, Draupadi cut her finger while threading a needle. Seeing this, Lord Krishna immediately tore a piece of his clothing and tied it around Draupadi’s finger as a bandage. Touched by this gesture, Draupadi considered Krishna her true brother. Later, during a moment of distress, when Draupadi needed help, Krishna came to her aid, emphasizing the protective bond between siblings.
Yama and Yamuna
Another legend tells the story of Yama, the god of death, and his sister Yamuna. Yama was granted a boon that anyone who tied a rakhi to him would become his sister. When Yamuna tied a rakhi to Yama’s wrist, he was so moved by the gesture that he granted her immortality. This story illustrates the power of the bond between a brother and sister and the significance of the rakhi in offering protection.
Alexander the Great and King Puru’s Wife
A historical account suggests that when Alexander the Great invaded India, his wife Roxana sent a rakhi to King Puru, seeking his protection for her husband. Touched by the gesture, King Puru refrained from harming Alexander during a crucial battle. This story highlights how the symbolism of Raksha Bandhan transcended cultural and historical boundaries, representing the essence of protection and goodwill.
Facts About Raksha Bandhan 2024
- Historical Origins: Raksha Bandhan has historical roots, with legends suggesting that queens and princesses used rakhi threads to seek protection from warriors.
- Rakhi Symbolism: The term “Raksha Bandhan” translates to “the bond of protection.” The rakhi symbolizes the sister’s love and the brother’s vow to protect her.
- Diverse Celebrations: While predominantly a Hindu festival, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated by people of various religions in India, showcasing the diversity of cultural traditions.
- Thread of Unity: Rakhi threads come in various colors and designs. Some are simple, while others are elaborate, representing the diverse and vibrant threads of unity in society.
- Global Celebrations: Raksha Bandhan is not limited to India; it is celebrated by Indians around the world. Families living abroad often find creative ways to connect and celebrate the festival.
- Symbol of Siblinghood: The festival is not restricted to biological siblings. It extends to cousins, close friends, and even distant relatives, emphasizing the broader concept of siblinghood.
- Rituals for Sisters: Sisters perform aarti (a ceremonial prayer) for their brothers and apply tilak (a mark) on their foreheads before tying the rakhi. The ritual signifies the sister’s prayers for the brother’s well-being.
- Gift Exchange: Brothers traditionally give gifts to their sisters as a token of appreciation for the rakhi and as a symbol of their love and commitment.
- Modern Trends: With changing times, Raksha Bandhan has adapted to modern trends. Online shopping, virtual celebrations, and sending e-rakhis have become common, especially for those unable to meet in person.
- Festive Treats: Families often celebrate with special sweets and dishes. The exchange of traditional Indian sweets, such as ladoos and barfis, is a customary part of the festivities.
Check All Hindu Festival Date, Shubh Muhurat & Puja Timing |
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| Akshay Tritiya | Durga Puja | Holi | Krishna Janmaashtami | Rath Yatra |
| Bhogi | Dussehra | Holika Dahan | Magh Purnima | Teej |
| Chhath | Ganesh Chaturthi | Kalash Sthapana | Maha Shivaratri | Tulsi Vivah |
| Dasha Mata | Govardhan | Kanya Pujan | Makar Sankranti | Ugadi |
| Dhanteras | Gudi Padwa | Kartika Purnima | Nag Panchami | Vasant Panchami |
| Diwali | Hanuman Jayanti | Karva Chauth | Raksha Bandhan | |
Santosh Kumar is an editor at unfoldstuffs.com and a professional content writer. With years of experience he is passionate for creating engaging, informative and impactful topics.
