By Tripti Sharma
India is a land of festivals — a unique blend of tradition, culture, and values. Our festivals are not just celebrations; they are carriers of deep social and moral messages. Among them are those dedicated to sacred family bonds, which not only strengthen relationships but also nurture a sense of social security and harmony.
One such holy occasion is Rakshabandhan, the festival that celebrates the sacred relationship between a brother and a sister. It reinforces love, mutual duty, and the promise of protection.
The term Rakshabandhan literally means “the bond of protection.” On this day, a Raksha Sutra (protective thread) is tied to the wrist of someone we wish to safeguard, accompanied by heartfelt blessings. Celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Shravan, this festival is also called Shravani because the moon is in the Shravan Nakshatra.
The tradition has roots in ancient scriptures. The Rigveda describes how, during the Devasur war, Indra’s wife Shachi tied a medicinal, mantra-protected thread on Indra’s wrist, ensuring his victory and safe return to Indralok.
In its original form, Rakshabandhan symbolized mutual security and social responsibility. In the Rishi tradition, sages and Brahmins tied Raksha Sutras to their disciples. Kings going to war would receive them from their gurus for victory and safety. Even today, in some places, Brahmins wear new yagyopaveet and tie Raksha Sutras to their patrons on Shravani. The Mauli tied by priests during pujas is a continuation of this ancient custom.
The Vishnu Purana narrates another legend — Goddess Lakshmi tied a Raksha Sutra to King Bali, considering him her brother. In return, Bali released Lord Vishnu from his promise and sent him to Vaikunth with Lakshmi. This story further cemented the festival’s association with the safety, long life, and love between siblings.
Traditionally, sisters tied the Raksha Sutra not just to their biological brothers but also to men in their community, ensuring mutual respect and protection for all women. No gifts were exchanged — it was a pure celebration of love, duty, and trust.
However, over time, the festival has shifted away from its essence. Today, it is often reduced to a commercial exchange, with flashy, mass-produced rakhis and a focus on expensive gifts rather than blessings and protection. Conversations have changed from “May you be safe and blessed” to “What will you gift me this year?”. In this materialistic age, the emotional connection between brothers and sisters risks becoming a formality, weakening the sensitivity and security it once fostered.
In the present era, when society faces countless challenges, it is essential to return to the festival’s original spirit. Rakshabandhan should once again become a pledge of protection for all — the strong for the weak, the privileged for the vulnerable. It reminds us that safety is a shared responsibility of the entire community.
While celebrating, sisters must remember that the Raksha Sutra is not a mere thread — it is a priceless symbol of our glorious culture, trust, and emotional respect. It should be tied only to those who honor these values. On this day, we must vow to extend security, help, and respect not just to our family, but to every member of society. Only when every section is safe, and women everywhere are respected, can true security be achieved.
This Rakshabandhan, let us pledge to build an India where every citizen feels safe, valued, and empowered — an India that shines with the glory of its rich culture and unbreakable bonds of harmony.