Raksha Bandhan – A Celebration of Sibling Love
Yashashvi, Regional Training Coordinator at our Head Office, talks about the Hindu celebration Raksha Bandhan taking place on Saturday 9th August and what it means to her.
India is known for its many festivals. In a year we celebrate more than 50, from Holi, a festival of colour, to Diwali, a festival of lights, and Makar Sankranti, a festival of kites.
Raksha Bandhan, a festival of sibling love, stands out for its simplicity.
For me, it holds a special place in my heart. I have two brothers – one elder and one younger – and over the years, this festival has always been a joyful celebration for us.
What is Raksha Bandhan?
The Hindi word “Raksha Bandhan” translates as “a bond of protection”. Rashka Bandhan celebrates the relationship between brothers and sisters, or anyone who shares a close sibling-like bond.
While it is primarily a Hindu festival, it is widely celebrated by people across India and the Indian diaspora.
On this day, a sister ties a decorated thread called a rakhi around her brother’s wrist. This thread represents her love and prayers for his wellbeing.
After the rakhi is tied, families share sweets like laddoos or barfis. Brothers often give presents to their sisters and promises to protect and support her for life.
Where does Raksha Bandhan come from?
Raksha Bandhan has roots in ancient Hindu Scriptures. There are stories of queens sending rakhis to kings as a plea for protection.
A popular mention of Raksha Bandhan in The Mahabharata where Krishna injures his finger in battle, and Draupadi bandages his wound. Krishna is overwhelmed with gratitude by this act of love and promises to protect her in times of need
Over time, the tradition has continued as a way to honour and strengthen family ties.
What does Raksha Bandhan mean to me?
Rakshabandhan holds a special place in my heart. I have one elder and one younger brother and over the years, this festival has always been a joyful celebration for us.
Growing up, it was a day filled with laughter, sweets, and lots of sibling banter. I still cherish those moments – receiving gifts from my elder brother, and the endless teasing with my younger one. We had a long-running joke that he was a surprise delivery the family never ordered!
In recent years, things have changed. We now live in different parts of the world, and I’ve really missed being together in person, but we haven’t let distance come in the way. I send their rakhis online, and we celebrate virtually – laughing, sharing stories, and keeping the tradition alive in our own way.
It’s not quite the same, but it’s a beautiful reminder that the bond we share doesn’t fade with time or distance.
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