Raksha Bandhan 2023
Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi Purnima, is observed annually on the full moon day of the Shravan month, sometimes referred to as Sawan. This day holds immense significance as it honors the bond between siblings, particularly that of brothers and sisters. Sisters tie a sacred thread called Rakhi on their brother’s wrists, symbolizing well-wishing and protection, while brothers pledge to safeguard their sisters. In certain regions, this day is known as Rakhri. It ranks among the major festivals in India.
The Auspicious Timing of Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan aligns with the Purnima (full moon) day of the Hindu month Shravan during the Aparahan Kaal period. However, specific guidelines apply:
- If Bhadra falls within the Aparahan Kaal on Purnima, Raksha Bandhan rituals should not occur during this time. In such instances, if the following day has Purnima prevailing within the first 3 Muhurats of the day, the rituals can take place during the Aparahan Kaal of the second day. This is because Sakalyapadit Purnima will be present at that time.
- If Purnima doesn’t occur within the first 3 Muhurats of the subsequent day, Sakalyapadit Purnima will also be absent. In such cases, Rakshabandhan can be celebrated on the first day following Bhadra during the latter half of Pradosh.
In places like Punjab, Aparahan Kaal isn’t given significant consideration, and Raksha Bandhan is celebrated before Madhyahn, often during the early morning. Nevertheless, our scriptures strictly prohibit Raksha Bandhan observances during Bhadra, irrespective of the situation. During Grahan Sutak (solar eclipse) and Sankranti (Sun’s transit), the festival can be celebrated without restrictions.
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Celebrating Rakhi Poornima
During the Raksha Bandhan festival, sisters tie Rakhi threads onto their brothers’ wrists, wishing them a life filled with prosperity and happiness.
A small packet (Potli) containing Akshat (Rice), yellow mustard seeds, and golden wire should be tied to the right hand of brothers by their sisters. Similarly, Brahmins may do the same for their patrons. While performing this, the following mantra should be recited:
ॐ येन बद्धो बली राजा दानवेन्द्रो महाबलः।
तेन त्वामपि बध्नामि रक्षे मा चल मा चल।।
The Potli can be ceremoniously placed on a Kalash (container) in a clean corner of the house before being tied to the hand.
Once, Yudhishthir asked Lord Krishna for a story capable of alleviating human suffering. Krishna shared this narrative:
In ancient times, Devas (Gods) and Asuras (Demons) engaged in a 12-year battle. The Asuras were prevailing, and their King claimed dominion over all three realms. Tormented, Deva’s King Indra sought Guru Brihaspati’s counsel for protection. On Shravana Purnima, the Raksha Vidhan (protection ceremony) was performed.
Guru Brihaspati recited the aforementioned mantra during the Raksha Vidhan. Indra and his wife followed suit with Guru Brihaspati. Indrani, Indra’s consort, validated the Raksha Sutra with the Brahmins and Purohits and then fastened it to Indra’s right hand. This Sutra enabled Lord Indra to overcome the Asuras.
Another distinctive tradition involves women adorning their home walls with gold early in the morning. This gold is worshipped with offerings like vermicelli dessert (Sevaiyan), sweet rice porridge (Kheer), and sweets. Rakhi threads are affixed to the gold using these offerings. Those who sow wheat on Nag Panchami place these saplings in this ritual, and after tying Rakhi on their brother’s wrists, they place these plants behind their ears.
Some individuals observe a fast the day before Raksha Bandhan, following Vedic rituals on the day itself. Pitru Tarpan (homage to ancestors), Rishi Pujan (tribute to sages), and Shravan Pujan (veneration of Lord Shiva) are performed.
Gift exchange is a common practice, with brothers giving presents to sisters. If one doesn’t have a biological sister, Raksha Bandhan 2023 can be celebrated with cousins or individuals who share a sisterly bond.
Raksha Bandhan Legends
Several legends, as discussed earlier, are detailed to elucidate specific Puja practices. Additional legends include:
- Krishna and Draupadi: Draupadi once used a piece of her saree to bandage Krishna’s injured hand. In gratitude, he pledged to protect her. Krishna came to Draupadi’s aid during her harrowing ordeal in the Kaurava court.
- Karmavati and Humayun: Queen Karmavati of Chittor sent a Rakhi to Mughal Emperor Humayun, seeking his assistance. Humayun respected the Rakhi and sent forces to safeguard his sister’s honor against the Gujarat Emperor.
These legends, woven into the fabric of Raksha Bandhan, celebrate the bond of love, protection, and camaraderie between siblings.
