Meaning & Significance of Rakhi: Cherish the bond with Beautiful Gifts

June 18, 2024

Rakhi, also called Raksha Bandhan, is one of the holy events that is cherished & celebrated in India and by Indians in other countries. It falls in August on the full moon day of Shravan Maas, this colourful festival is actually an iconic portrayal of the strong and unflinching relationship of love, protection, and respect between siblings. It is the day to celebrate Rakhi, let us take some time to know the meaning and significance of this special occasion, and to understand the overarching importance and immeasurable values of Rakhi gifts.

The Essence of Rakhi

1. A Bond of Protection

Picture of brother and sister tying rakhi

The bond of love, the bond of protection

The word “Raksha” is derived from the term “Protection” & The word “Bandhan” implies the relation of “Bond”. Raksha Bandhan therefore means protection and the association of protection with the ‘Rakhi’ piece shows that protection is well-guarded. It is a traditional belief that on this day of the year, sisters place a small and sacred piece of thread, known as Rakhi, around the wrist of their brothers to mark their entreaty for their brothers’ safety and welfare. In return, men represent brothers and undertake to take care of their sisters all the time.

2. Cultural and Historical Roots

When culture bends with tradition

Rakhi holds historical importance and has been described in Mahabharat and Valmiki Ramayana. Many tales have been associated with this day and out of all the stories the famous one is the tale of queen Karnavati of Chittor and Emperor Humayun. Facing a threat from Bahadur Shah, Queen Karnavati sent a Rakhi to Humayun, seeking protection. Touched by her gesture, Humayun honored the Rakhi and came to her aid, illustrating the festival's essence of protection and solidarity.

The Rituals of Rakhi

1. Preparation and Celebration

Gift Smiles and Surprises this Raksha Bandhan

Rakhi celebrations are not limited to a single day, preparations for Rakhi start way earlier. Markets are filled with Rakhis, fruits and sweets, and other gifts with saffron colors. This celebration is held in the families on the day of Raksha Bandhan. Sisters make up a Rakhi Thali, which includes sweets, a diya (lighted lamp), and rice.

2. The Ceremony

The ceremony typically involves the following steps:

Aarti: In return, sisters, as a sign of their obedience, conduct a ritual called aarti where a lighted lamp is waved in front of God, a brother, etc.

Divine Blessings: Celebrate the Spirit

Tying the Rakhi: The sisters, in turn, put a Rakhi around the brother’s wrist and apply the tilak on his forehead along with offering sweets.

Exchange of Gifts: Men bring gifts to women in order to demonstrate their affection for them, which is the reason why brothers gift their sisters.

Mixing love, blessings and happiness all together

Feasting: The day usually ends with a family gathering meal that conveys celebration among family members at large.

The Symbolism of Rakhi

1. String of love and protection

Golden Personalised Peacock Rakhi

It might seem at first that the Rakhi thread is not very symbolic; indeed, the idea is quite straightforward. It depicts the sister’s affection, concern, and supplication for the brothers’ wellbeing. In exchange, the brother’s promise of protection plays the male support system and encourages aspects of her life.

2. Unity and Harmony

Silver Personalised Eternal Swastik Rakhi

Rakhi signifies not only the biological bond but also the principle of coming together, oneness. It nurtures responsibility and concern among the siblings and among the members of the compound or progeny, making them responsible citizens in the society.

3. Gender Equality and Respect

Golden Blossom Lumba Rakhi

Sisters tying the Rakhi onto the brother has however shifted a bit with most celebrations taking over from the traditional. It is even the tradition for sisters to get Rakhis from their brothers to show that they respect each other and that the brothers will protect the sisters. It is an evolving practice that puts priority on gender issues specifically focusing on how both male and female partners should fairly take care and provide for each other.

Rakhi in Modern Times

1. Adapting Traditions

Today, Rakhi is not limited to siblings only but also friends, relatives living far away, or even just for the cause. Friends, especially guides in the life of man, also receive Rakhis, which expands the circle of the protectors and, therefore, the sphere of the festival.

2. Virtual Celebrations

For instance, due to the geographical dispersion of families in the current world, virtual celebrations are prevalent. Rakhi through online Rakhi shopping and digital greetings make true to the essence of Raksha Bandhan making the festival special despite geographic barriers.

3. Rakhi and Social Change

This has also been used as a cultural tool in bringing about change within society. Women in many regions of India bind Rakhis on the soldiers, police, and all such individuals as they fight for the protection of society. Efforts are made by environmental activists to ensure that they fix the Rakhis they are applying to trees in order to ensure that they protect the environment.

Add more to the Rakhi Celebration with GIVA’s Special Gifts

Perhaps it is because of such traditions and contemporary practices that rakhi continues to be a festival of culture as well as emotions. It is a symbol of love, shelter, and especially the brother-sister relationship. Despite its rituals and celebrations, Raksha Bandhan presents values inherent to care, togetherness, and respect in human relations as a tradition that remains popular and meaningful for generations and geographical areas.

With all this importance, GIVA is offering 0% making charges on the gold jewellery for a limited period of time which makes it exciting to surprise your sisters with all love and care! Check out the latest collection of silver and gold Rakhi gifts that are crafted with pure love!

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