Rakhi SMS

Rakhi SMS for Brothers

“Brothers are like streetlights along the road, they don't make distance any shorter but they light up the path and make the walk worthwhile.”

“You were always my best friend, looking out for me, making sure the path I traveled on was smooth. Even if I searched the world over, there cannot be a better brother than you. Wishing You Life's Best Always.”

“We were always close, looking out for each other even when life led us along different paths... Like an invisible thread, our love binds us together, making sure we'll remember where we came from and what we mean to each other. Wishing you a joyous Raksha Bandhan, Dear Brother.”

“The loving occasion of Raksha Bandhan is the best time Brother, to reminisce fondly the wonderful moment we have spent together, sharing each other’s joys and sorrows… Thanks for spreading smiles everywhere and making life so beautiful, meaningful and Happy… My Dear Brother .”

“You never say no, you never say thats impossible and you never say you can't. That's my bro, a superman who make things possible and who make paths smoother. I love you Bro.”

“You are the person who holds me in my bad times, you are the person who dances with me in my happiness. I can't recall even a single day when you were absent from my life. I really love you.”

Kaamyabi tumhare kadam chume,
Khushiyan tumhare charo aur ho,
Par bhagwan se itni prarthana karne ke liye,
tum mujhe kuch to commission do!
To my extremely lovable (but kanjoos) brother…
Just kidding as always.
“Happy Raksha Bandhan.”



Rakhi SMS for Sisters

"Sisters is probably the most competitive relationship within the family, but once sisters are grown, it becomes the strongest relationship."

“Sister is someone who is caring and sharing. Sister can understand things you never said. She can understand pain which is not visible to anyone. I love my sister.”

“It leaves a smile on my face when I think of those trifling fights we had and suddenly used to make up. The memories may fade away with passing time but the love we share will only grow. Happy Raksha Bandhan, Dear Sister.”

“God sent in my life a beautiful Angel in your guise, Sister. In good times or bad ones, you're ready to extend your help and support. Thanks for all you do.”

“Sister is someone who is caring and sharing. Sister can understand things you never said. She can understand pain which is not visible to anyone. I love my sister.”

Humorous Rakhi SMS

“Hey didi you are the best. Do you know why? Because Iam your brother.”

“Har ladki ko aapka inteezar hai
Har ladki aapke liye bekaraar hai
Har ladki ko aapki aarjoo hai
Yeh aapka koi kamaal nahi
Kuch din baad 'Rakhi' ka tyohar hai!”

“Bhagwan kare tujhe bahut pyaar mile
sabhi ladkiyan tujhe baandhe rakhi
tujhe jeevan bhar ka unka saath mile.
Happy Raksha Bandhan.”

"I am eagerly waiting for the Raksha Bandhan day. Guess, why? My brother has promised me the i-pod."

“Rakhi Ko Tyonhar Tha
Rakhi Bandhane Ko Bhai Taiyar Tha
Bhai Bola bahna meri ab to rakhi bandh do,
Bahna Boli, Kalai Peechhe karo, Pahale Rupae Hazaar do.”

“Kya Bataoo Yaaro
Meri Kismat Ki Kahani
Kuch Is tarah Likhi Gai
Jin Hatho Se Gulab Dena Chahta Tha
Unhi hatho me vo Rakhi Bandhkar Chali Gai.”

“Aati Thi Jaathi Thi
Hansti Thi, hansati thi
Bhagati Thi, Bhagaati Thi
Bolti Thi, Bulwati Thi
Per aaj pata chala ki
vah mujhe rakhi bandhana chahati thi.”

“Usaka Husn gaya kaleja cheer
Nayano Se barbas Chhuta ek teer
vo Muskrai, Nazdeeq aai
Boli, Rakhi Bandhwale mere veer.”

Rakhi SMS for Teenager Brothers & Sisters

“Hey my sweet little pie, your cute smile makes my day, your small little hands take me out from all dangers of life. You are little angel of my life. I love you. Your's elder sister/brother.”

“My cute angel from today's onwards I promise you I'll never scold you when you'll tear my books, messed up my clothes. You are really a ray of happiness in my life.”
Rakhi Songs SMS

“Phoolon Ka Taaron Ka Sabka Kehna Hai
Ek Hazaron Mein Meri Behna Hai
Sari Umar Hame Sang Rehna Hai.”

“Jhula Bahon Ka Aaj Bhi Do Na Mujhe
Jhula Bahon Ka Aaj Bhi Do Na Mujhe
Bhaiyaa Goud Mein Uthao Na Aaj Mujhe
Kad Se Hoon Badi Mann Se Chhoti Main
Aaj Bhi Maan Lo Na Zid Meri.”

“Behna ne bhaai ki kalaai se pyaar baandha hai
pyaar ke do taar se, sansaar baandha hai
resham ki dori se -2
resham ki dori se sansaar baandha hai) -2.”

“Mere Bhaiya Mere Chanda
Mere Anamol Ratan
Tere Badale Main Zamaane Ki
Koi Cheez Na Lu) -2.”

Rakhi witty SMS

“Yes I love you. You are so cute, smart. My mother also likes you very much. My father is ready to take up our relationship seriously. So please don't say no to my proposal. Accept me as your dearest, loveliest younger sister. Happy Raksha Bandhan Bhaiya.”

“Raksha Bandhan... time for me to realize each year that what a BIG MISTAKE I made asking God for a little sister like you.”

“Har ilzam ka haqdar vo hame bana jati hai, har khata ki saza vo hume bata jaati hai, hum har baar khamosh rah jate hai, kyonki who har baar Raksha Bandhan ka darr dikha jaati hai.”

History of Rakhi FestivaL

History of Rakhi FestivaL

Hindu scriptures and mythology is the source of all the Hindu rituals and festivals. In fact, one can find explanations for all the Hindu traditions and customs in the religious epics. Even the origin of Rakhi celebrations is rooted in the Hindu mythology. There is no confirmed date and time available about the history of Rakhi festival, but the stories are many. Started as the 'different tradition' of tying the thread to the husband, it has evolved to having the sisters tying the thread to their brother. The different stories related to this festival, which explain the history behind it, go as follows...

In the Vedic period, on a 'Shravan Poornima' day (Full Moon Day of the Hindu month of Shravan), the deities and demons were fighting a battle against each other. Unfortunately the demons were in a stronger position, as compared to the deities. The king of the deities, Lord Indra, was very much worried about the result of the battle. His wife Indrani (also known as Shashikala) could not see him worried and prayed to the almighty to help her husband. Indrani was a religious lady, so she prepared a talisman with her religious power and tied it around Indra's right wrist.

Indrani believed that her talisman will safeguard Indra from the attack of demons. Eventually, she proved right, as that day, the deities won the battle and Lord Indra escaped unhurt. As the talisman had the power of protecting the person who wore it, it came to be known as 'Raksha Sutra' and the ceremony of tying it was called 'Raksha Bandhan'. Since this particular act of tying the talisman took place on 'Shravan Poornima' day, it has become a tradition to celebrate 'Raksha Bandhan' on the 'Shravan Poornima' day every year. With time, the festival came to comprise of brother-sister duo, rather than husband-wife.

It is said that when Alexander invaded India in 326 B.C., his wife tied a Rakhi to the king Porus and in return, Porus promised to protect her and her husband. We also have various such examples of tying knots or threads, especially in the history of Rajputana. The most famous of them is the story of the Queen Karnavati of Chittor, who sent a Rakhi to the Mughal emperor Humayun, to save her kingdom from the invasion of Bahadur Shah of Gujarat. That particular day of Purnima was celebrated as Raksha Bandhan first in Marwar and then, all over Rajasthan. Finally, it came to celebrated all over India.

Is 'Raksha Bandhan' also superstition?

Is 'Raksha Bandhan' also superstition?: Uddhav Thackeray to Sharad Pawar

MUMBAI: Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray today hit back at NCP chief Sharad Pawar after the latter took a swipe at the saffron party's 'shiv bandhan' initiative and wondered whether NCP will oppose 'Raksha bandhan' festival and bring it under the Anti-Superstition Act.

"Those who have cheated people throughout will never understand the difference between 'ganda' (thread tied around the wrist) and bandhan...Will the festival of 'Raksha Bandhan' be brought under the anti-superstition act?...If that happens we will oppose the act," Uddhav said.
His comments came a day after Pawar ridiculed the initiative wherein Sena workers on the occasion of late Bal Thackeray's birth anniversary on January 23 tied a "shiv bandhan" thread to remain loyal to the party and overthrow the Congress-NCP government in the state.

Scoffing the 'shiv bandhan' drive, Pawar had said, "this was violation of the anti-superstition act and I am waiting to see what action the government takes".

Raksha Bandhan Day

Raksha Bandhan Day

Pooja for your Brother/Sister's Health & Prosperity

Raksha Bandhan (the bond of protection in Hindi) is a Hindu festival, which celebrates the relationship between brothers and sisters. It is celebrated on the full moon of the month of Shraavana. Raksha means protection and Banthan means tying. This festival is between brothers and sisters, where the sister ties a Rakhi on her brothers’ hand, which symbolises the sign of protection on behalf of the sisters.
Brothers are taking care of their sisters throughout their life and so to give them power to protect their sisters and this is why the festival is celebrated every year. When tying the Rakhi, sisters must put a Chandlo on their brothers’ forehead and then give them some sweets. After sisters have performed their duty, the brothers have to give whatever the sister asks and if they don’t ask anything then the brother must give them some money.

Long time ago when lord Narayan was caught in his devotee (Bali Raja) devotion, he had to leave his heaven and stay with his devotee. All demigods got scared and told Lakshmi to bring back Narayan to heaven. Lakshmi had no other plan but to only make Bali her brother. She went their and tied Rakhi on Bali Raja hands. Bali Raja told her to ask for anything she wants, and she ask to give back Narayan to her. Bali Raja gave Narayan back to Lakshmi but then Narayan promised him that he will give him the kingdom of demigods (Swarga).
If either of them had done anything wrong to each other, then this is the day we ask for forgiveness. 

THINGS TO KNOW

THINGS TO KNOW

Shravan (pronounced shraavan) is the most holy month in the Hindu year. The full moon of Shravan or Shravan Purnima is the day of Raksha Bandhan, also known as Balev. Hindus all over the world celebrate this festival with great joy. We shall discuss the reason for this later.  Raksha means protection. Bandhan means to be tied, to be bound. To understand the true significance of Raksha Bandhan, we must first know how it came about.    

Bali Raja, the demon king, greatly pleased Vaman Bhagwan by offering his head to step on. Vaman Bhagwan then gave him a boon that Bhagwan Narayan will stay at his doorstep all through the year. However, when Shri Narayan failed to return to Vaikunth, Lakshmiji arrived at Bali’s doorstep. She then adopted Bali as her brother, by tying a raksha on his wrist. This pleased Bali, who allowed her to ask for a boon. She requested that he allow Shri Narayan to return to Vaikunth. Bali agreed. It was then decided that after Narayan’s stay of four months during Chaturmas, Shivji and Brahmaji would stay at Bali’s doorstep, each for four months.  From this episode about Bali Raja, this day is also known as Baleva. Thus, Bali Raja’s great gift to Bhagwan is glorified in the shastras. So, in all puja rituals, pandits chant a shlok which praises Bali Raja while tying a nada chhadi (sacred thread):  Yena baddho Baliraja, danavendro mahabala, Tena tvamabhi badhnami rakshe ma chala ma chala.
- Bhavishyottar Puran 137/20 i.e.

I tie on you (the devotee) the raksha which was tied on Bali. Therefore O Raksha! Do not ever fail to protect this bhakta. Do not ever fail. The most important principle to understand and put in our life is: just as Bali Raja offered supreme bhakti by surrendering his own self and his kingdom to Bhagwan, we should mentally surrender our life to Bhagwan. This means to believe that whatever we do in life, it is to please Bhagwan and our Guru.                  
We should not do anything which does not please them. Only then will they guard us and protect us from maya.                                          
Practical Rituals of Raksha Bandhan
On this day a sister will tie a raksha (rakhi in Hindi) on the right wrist of her brother(s). Before that, she will perform the following rituals of pujan, to show her love for her dear brother:
1. Apply chandlo on his forehead, with kumkum, then with rice grains.

2. Place a flower garland around his neck, a garland which she will have made herself (girls who are old enough to use a needle and thread).

3. Place a whole sweet, usually penda, in his mouth.

4. Tie the rakhadi on the right wrist. In some communities, this is tied after the first or second step. In return, the brother then presents a gift to her.

6 Raksha bandhan tales from history and mythology

6 Raksha bandhan tales from history and mythology

Like all Indian festivals, the festival of rakhi has numerous tales associated with it. Here are some you may or may not have heard.

Everyone loves a good story and when it is about a festival it's even better, isn't it? So here they are -- stories of Raksha Bandhan from history and mythology so you can tell your kids about why we celebrate this festival.

Krishna and Draupadi

Perhaps the most popular of the rakhi stories in our mythology is that of Lord Krishna and Draupadi -- the wife of the five Pandavas.

An incident in their lives finds a mention amongst the various stories of the Mahabharata.

According to one version on a Sankranti day, Krishna managed to cut his little finger while handling sugarcane. Rukmini, his queen immediately sent her help to get a bandage cloth while Sathyabama, his other consort rushed to bring some cloth herself.

Draupadi who was watching all of this rather simply tore off a part of her sari and bandaged his finger.

In return for this deed, Krishna promised to protect her in time of distress.

The word he is said to have uttered is 'Akshyam' which was a boon: 'May it be unending'.

And that was how Draupadi's sari became endless and saved her embarrassment on the day she was disrobed in full public view in king Dritarashtra's court.

Popular Festival

Raksha Bandhan is a popular festival celebrated across the country. Irrespective of caste and creed people from all walks of life participate in this festival. It is celebrated on the full moon day of the lunar month Shravana (Shravana Poornima) which also coincides with Upa-karma (changing the sacred thread for the brahmins, Avani Avittom in South India).

The festival is also called as Rakhi Poornima, Nariyal Poornima and Kajari Poornima in different states and is celebrated differently.

How to celebrate Raksha Bandhan?

On the occasion of this festival sisters generally apply tilak to the forehead of their brothers, tie the sacred thread called Rakhi to the wrist of their brothers and do arati and pray for their good health & long life. This thread, which represents love and sublime sentiments, is called the ‘Raksha Bandhan’  means ‘a bond of protection’. The brother in return offers a gift to his sister and vows to look after her.  Before tying a Rakhi on their brothers hand the sisters first tie a Rakhi on the Tulasi plant and the another Rakhi on the peepal tree asking for the protection of nature – Vriksha Raksha Bandhan.

Singificance

The concept of Raksha Bandhan is mainly that of protection. Commonly we find people going to the priests in temples and getting a sacred thread tied to their hands. We find this in the temple of Kala Bhairava at Varanasi where people get a black thread tied to their wrist. Similarly at Sri Vaishnodevi Temple in Jammu, we find people tying red band to their forehead after worshipping the Goddess.

In Hindu religious functions we observe the preist tying a thread to the wrist of person/s performing the ritual before its commencement. It is believed and said that even Yagnopaveetam (sacred thread across the chest) acts as a Raksha (protection) to the wearer if one maintains its sanctity.

In the concept of Marriage, Mangala Sutra (tied around the neck of the bride) and Kankana Bandhana (a thread tied to the wrist of the bride and groom by each other) also has a similar inner significance.

The tying of a Rakhi is not confined to a brother and sister. It could also be tied by a wife to her husband, or by a disciple to the Guru. This bond does not have to be between blood relatives – a girl might adopt a boy as her brother through the tying of a Rakhi. This ritual not only strengthens the bond of love, but also transcends the boundaries of the family. When a Rakhi is tied on the wrists of close friends and neighbors, it underscores the need for a harmonious social life. This helps to broaden ones’ vision beyond the borders of ones own family to the entire earth (vasudha) as one family – Vasudhaiva kutumbakam.
Rakhi: its meaning and significance

According to Indian religous lore, Lord Siva is considered as the Father and Goddess Parvati as the Mother. The devotees of the Lord are my relatives, and I belong to all the three worlds.

mata cha parvati devi pita devo mahaeswara
baandhavah siva bhakthascha swadesho bhuvana-trayam

Mythological references

Indra – Sachi Devi : As per Bhavishya Purana, Indra the King of Devas was advised by Deva Guru Brihaspati to wear a Rakhi as a protection against enemies (Demons) when he was facing defeat at the hands of Vritra Asura. Accordingly Sachi Devi (consort of Indra) tied a Rakhi to Indra.

According to one mythological allusion, Rakhi was intended to be the worship of the sea-god Varuna. Hence, offerings of coconut to Varuna, ceremonial bathing and fairs at waterfronts accompany this festival. Usually fishermen offer coconut and rakhi to the Sea God Varuna – this festival is known as Nariyal Poornima.

Historical References

It is said that when Alexander was defeated at the hands of the great Hindu King Purushottam of Punjab, Alexander’s wife tied a Rakhi to Purushottam to protect her husband from being slain.

During the days of Emperor Humayun, it is believed that Rani Karnavati (Queen of Chittor) had sent a Rakhi to emperor Humayun in order to get protection from Bahadur Shah who was invading her kingdom. Inspite of being of a different religion, he rushed to her help.


The Message of Rakhi

Raksha Bandhan symbolizes the unmatched bond of love, care and respect. But in a broader perspective the festival of Rakhi (Raksha Bandhan) conveys an intrinsic message of universal brotherhood and sisterhood. Thus the festival of Rakhi conveys a message that has socio spiritual significance underscoring the need for nurturing of positive qualities, purity in thought, word and deed.

The Story Behind Raksha Bandhan

The Story Behind Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan, meaning "Knot of Protection" is one of the most important festivals celebrated by Hindus throughout the world. The festival stands for the beautiful relationship shared between brothers and sisters. A lifelong promise of protection is made on this special occasion. It exhibits the beautiful relationship of love, care and affection between siblings.

History

Raksha Bandhan, also called Rakhi Purnima or just Rakhi, has deep rooted historical significance. There are various stories linked with the past mythology of the hindu religion. People believe and follow different stories from the past. The most famous and relied upon story of them all is that of Rani Karnavati of Chittor and the Mughal Emperor Humayun. Rani Karnawati was the widowed queen of Chittor, which had been attacked by Bahadur Shah, Sultan of Gujarat. The queen realized that defending her empire from the invasion was not possible for her and in lieu of protection and help, she sent a Rakhi to the Mughal Emperor, Humayun. On receiving the rakhi, the Emperor was overwhelmed and became emotional. He, along with his troops, immediately set out to protect Chittor from the invasion. Alas, he could not reach on time. The Sultan of Gujarat had, by then, reached the queen`s fortress. All the women, in the fortress including Rani Karnawati had performed Jauhar (mass suicide) by then. Humayun, on reaching the fortress, fought with Bahadur Shah and evicted him from the land. The empire was handed over to Rani Karnawati`s son, Vikramjeet Singh. Since then, the act of a sister tying a rakhi on the wrist of her brother indicates lifelong protection from him.

Significance

Raksha Bandhan is a beautiful Hindu festival where sisters dress up beautifully in order to celebrate this special occasion with their brothers. Sisters also pray for a prosperous future and a long life for their brothers. Rakhi holds great emotional and religious significance. The festival keeps the deep rooted culture of the country alive, strengthens the relationship of siblings and ensures togetherness.

Celebrations

The festival of Raksha Bandhan, brings the entire family together. The day starts with everyone dressing up beautifully in traditional attires. Sweets, chocolates and other regional specialties are brought. The sister ties a rakhi on her brother`s wrist and performs aarti, praying for his well-being and then sweetens his mouth with a delicacy. Brothers in return give gifts to their sisters to express their love.

Perfect gifts for brothers and sisters

Nowadays, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated with exchange of gifts unlike the old days when money was handed over to the sister as a token of love. Here are some amazing ideas of gifts you can surprise your brother and sister with, on Rakhi.

Gifts for Brothers:

Watch: Very much in fashion; since the occasion is rakhi, what could be better than a watch for your brother`s wrist?

Gadget: Since guys are quite tech savvy, a gadget, maybe a new phone, MP3, tab, etc. will be a great option. It`ll surely bring a smile to your brother`s face.

Perfumes: Men and women both are equally crazy about perfumes. So, a nice perfume is also a great option this rakhi.

Chocolates: chocolates are liked by people of all age groups, so whether your brother is young or old, chocolates will remain an all-time favorite.

Gifts for Sisters

Jewellery: A girl`s best friend! Jewellery is one of the most loved things by any girl. Go for it, without a second thought.

Bag: Bags are again a great option. Girls go gaga over handbags, so getting your sister a bag will definitely fetch you a smile.

Vouchers: Girls, being shopaholics, will love a gift/discount voucher from which they can shop as they desire.

These are just a few ideas to ease your search. The value of any gift is seen by the intention with which it is given, so no matter what you get, your brother or sister will love you anyway. AstroYogi.com wishes all a happy and memorable Raksha Bandhan!

Raksha Bandhan Is Sentimental

Raksha bandhan is not entirely a pious affair, though sentimentality doubtless prevails. It has, thankfully, also become an occasion for some jest, humor, and mild ribaldry. Rakhi advertisements from the Times of India, Mumbai (25 August 1999), suggest that some men construe "raksha bandhan" truly as an occasion for taking their responsibilities as a protective brother seriously, as in this advertisement which deploys the familiar metaphor of the sheltering banyan tree: "Your Brother Banyan Tree will protect 5 branches Saroja, Vijaya, Laxmi, Thangam, Lalitha on auspicious Raksha Bandhan Day. A.R. Parshuram" (col. 3). A similar sentiment, with the sacred as its central trope, is expressed by this woman: "Dear Brother. Accept my blessing and affection through this sacred thread which tightens our relationship better" (col. 6). The supposition that a sister stands in place of a mother comes across in some ads: "Dear Sister Ruta, they say mothers couldn’t be everywhere everytime, so God made sisters. Ani" (col. 5), and "My Loving Sister, for me you’re like both mother & father. You’re next to God & your love is next to Divinity.

Rays of your love & blessings enlivened me like Rays of the Ultimate. Symbol of love & sacrifice, I adore your feet today. Deeyech" (col. 7). But alongside the expression of these more conventional sentiments, one might consider the humor of the ad from one "Feh": "Dear Bro. Nirlek. You are the perfect Brother to have — good height, strong built, lots of money, and no brain" (col. 5), or the lampooning of India’s family planning programs: "Adarniya [Respected] Bachelor Padhanmantriji [Prime Minister] no solution for population control? Try popularising Raksha-Bandhan day all throughout India. Love. Joekar" There is ample evidence to suggest that the problem of dowry has unquestionably been aggravated by the social sanction placed upon married daughters residing in their natal home. Consequently, raksha bandhan can be viewed as an occasion for reasserting a woman’s ties to her natal home. The brother conveys a message to his sister that she has not been abandoned by her biological kin; similarly, the woman conveys a message to her husband’s family that she can well count upon her natal family to come to her assistance.

It is doubtless possible, from a feminist perspective, to view raksha bandhan as another expression of patriarchal culture, however well-intentioned. It is, after all, the brother who extends his protection to his sister, and the woman who, in a manner of speaking, agrees to place herself under the protection of her brother. Against such a reading, one could well argue that the festival seeks to celebrate simply the affectionate ties between siblings of opposite sex, and that the brother-sister nexus is, comparatively speaking, innocent. This is scarcely to say that the relationship is devoid of power, or that there are not habitual practices and customs which define the relationship. But the real significance of raksha bandhan may lie elsewhere. Though it has been common in most societies for the woman to leave her natal home at marriage for her husband’s home, in India this is firmly entrenched as a social practice, and has often had undesirable consequences. Women who are subjected to harassment or life-threatening behavior on account of dowry by the husband’s family have often been reluctant to return to their natal home, and similarly parents are reluctant to take back their married daughters on account of the immense stigma attached to the return of a married daughter.

The annual "festival" of Raksha Bandhan, which is meant to commemorate the abiding ties between siblings of opposite sex, usually takes place in late August, and is marked by a very simple ceremony in which a woman ties a rakhi — which may be a colorful thread, a simple bracelet, or a decorative string — around the wrist of her brother(s). The word "raksha" signifies protection, and "bandhan" is an association signifying an enduring sort of bond; and so, when a woman ties a rakhi around the wrist of her brother, she signifies her loving attachment to him. He, likewise, recognizes the special bonds between them, and by extending his wrist forward, he in fact extends the hand of his protection over her. The thread-tying ceremony is sometimes preceded by the woman conducting aarti before her brother, so that the blessings of God may be showered upon him, and this is to the accompaniment of her enunciation or chanting of a mantra, which may be in Sanskrit or one of the other Indian languages. In Punjabi, for instance, the mantra says: "Suraj shakhan chhodian / Mooli chhodia beej / Behen ne rakhi bandhi / Bhai tu chir jug jee", which can be roughly translated as follows: "The sun radiates its sunlight / the radish seeds / I (the sister) tied the rakhi / brother, may you live long." After the conclusion of the ceremony, she places a sweet in her mouth, and he might return the gesture. The brother bestows a small gift upon his sister, generally in the form of a small sum of money, such as Rupees 51, 101, 251, or 501.

Though in principle raksha bandhan is an observance between biological siblings of the opposite sex, the practice often extends more generally to people of the opposite sex who are not biologically related, or who are not related as siblings. On raksha bandhan day, a number of women may tie the rakhi around the Prime Minister’s wrist (unless the Prime Minister be a woman), and similarly soldiers can expect to have women tie rakhis around their wrists. Thus, from ads placed on the occasion of raksha bandhan in the Times of India (Mumbai, 25 August 1999), col. 3: "Let’s break the traditions of Sisters sending Rakhis to their Brothers this time and approach the widows of Kargil Heroes with Rakhis to tie", and "Let us all send a Thread to our Brave Soldiers in Kargil so that they shred their Pakistan opponents. Satnam Kaur." Everywhere, especially in north and western India, females might tie a rakhi around the wrist of boys and men without sisters. A man might acquire a muh boli behen, that is a sister who in every respect is such except in biological fact; or a woman may tie a rakhi around the wrist of her male first cousin who is without sisters. Imagining a person of the opposite sex as a sibling is certainly one way of obscuring the problem of sexual desire, and Indian texts are rife with the observation that men should look upon women as their sisters and mothers.

Rakshabandhan is for Happiness and Ecitement

Rakshabandhan is for Happiness and Ecitement

The celebration of Raksha Bandhan is marked by happiness and excitement especially for young girls and women. Preparations for the festival begin well in advance.On the Raksha Bandhan day, the festivities start by the day break. Every one gets ready early and gathers for the worship of the deities. After invoking the blessings of the Gods, the sister performs brother’s arti, puts tika and chawal on his forehead and ties Rakhi amongst chanting of mantras. Then she gives him sweets and gifts. The brother accepts her offerings and vows to take care of her and be by her side in the time of need. As a token he gives the sister a return gift and sweets. The family reunion itself is the reason for celebration. Tasty dishes, sweets, gifts, sing and dance and what not. Any Indian festival is incomplete without this.

Rakhi has been promoted as a way of harmonious life by many a social workers and philoophers. It is a festival that dictates the values of brotherhood and self-perseverance.Raksha Bandhan is the Hindu festival that celebrates brotherhood and love.It is celebrated on the full moon in the month of Shraavana in the lunar calendar.


The day is all about raksha or protection, not just for self but for the dear ones, for peaceful existence of the human race. Each ritual that is followed has a significance. The sisters seek love from their brothers, the brothers seek courage and endurance. People worship the Gods of water, the basis of life.The word Raksha means protection, whilst Bandhan is the verb to tie. Traditionally, during the festival sisters tie a rakhi, a bracelet made of interwoven red and gold threads, around their brothers' wrists to celebrate their relationship. This thread, which pulsates with sisterly love and sublime sentiments, is rightly called the ‘Rakhi’. This ritual not only strengthens the bond of love between brothers and sisters, but also transcends the confines of the family.The importance of Raksha Bandhan is same as diwali festival in India.


The day is all about raksha or protection, not just for self but for the dear ones, for peaceful existence of the human race. Each ritual that is followed has a significance. The sisters seek love from their brothers, the brothers seek courage and endurance. People worship the Gods of water, the basis of life.


Famous Rakhi Songs:

Song: Behna ne Bhai ki Kalai pe…
Movie: Resham Ki Dor
Singer: Suman Kalyanpur

Behna Ne Bhai Ki Kalaai Pe
Behna Ne Bhaai Ki Kalaai Pe Pyaar Baandha Hai
Pyaar Ke Do Taar Se, Sansaar Baandha Hai
Resham Ki Dori Se, Sansaar Baandha Hai


Song: Bhaiyya Mere, Rakhi ke Bandhan
Movie: Chhoti Behan
Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Bhaiyya mere, rakhi ke bandhan ko nibhana
bhaiyya mere, choti behan ko na bhulana
dekho ye nata nibhana, nibhana
bhaiyaa mere... Rakhi ke Bandhan

Rakhi in History

Rakhi in History

The strong bond represented by Rakhi has resulted in innumerable political ties among kingdoms and princely states. The pages of Indian history testify that the Rajput and Maratha queens have sent Rakhis even to Mughal kings who, despite their differences, have assuaged their Rakhi-sisters by offering help and protection at critical moments and honoured the fraternal bond. Even matrimonial alliances have been established between kingdoms through the exchange of Rakhis. History has it that the great Hindu King Porus refrained from striking Alexander, the Great because the latter’s wife had approached this mighty adversary and tied a Rakhi on his hand, prior to the battle, urging him not to hurt her husband.
Rakhi Myths & Legends

According to one mythological allusion, Rakhi was intended to be the worship of the sea-god Varuna. Hence, offerings of coconut to Varuna, ceremonial bathing and fairs at waterfronts accompany this festival.
There are also myths that describe the ritual as observed by Indrani and Yamuna for their respective brothers Indra and Yama.

Once, Lord Indra stood almost vanquished in a long-drawn battle against the demons. Full of remorse, he sought the advice of Guru Brihaspati, who suggested for his sortie the auspicious day of Shravan Purnima (fullmoon day of the month of Shravan). On that day, Indra's wife and Brihaspati tied a sacred thread on the wrist of Indra, who then attacked the demon with renewed force and routed him.

Thus the Raksha Bhandhan symbolizes all aspects of protection of the good from evil forces. Even in the great epic Mahabharata, we find Krishna advising Yudhishtthir to tie the puissant Rakhi to guard himself against impending evils.

In the ancient Puranik scriptures, it is said that King Bali's stronghold had been the Raakhi. Hence while tying the rakhi this couplet is usually recited:

Yena baddho Balee raajaa daanavendro mahaabalah
tena twaam anubadhnaami rakshe maa chala maa chala

"I am tying a Rakhi on you, like the one on mighty demon king Bali. Be firm, O Rakhi, do not falter."
The chaste bond of love between a brother and a sister is one of the deepest and noblest of human emotions. 'Raksha Bandhan' or 'Rakhi' is a special occasion to celebrate this emotional bonding by tying a holy thread around the wrist. This thread, which pulsates with sisterly love and sublime sentiments, is rightly called the ‘Rakhi’. It means 'a bond of protection', and Raksha Bandhan signifies that the strong must protect the weak from all that’s evil.The ritual is observed on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravan, on which sisters tie the sacred Rakhi string on their brothers' right wrists, and pray for their long life. Rakhis are ideally made of silk with gold and silver threads, beautifully crafted embroidered sequins, and studded with semi precious stones.

The Auspicious Full Moon

In Northern India, Rakhi Purnima is also called Kajri Purnima or Kajri Navami, when wheat or barley is sown, and goddess Bhagwati is worshipped. In Western states, the festival is called Nariyal Purnima or the Coconut Full Moon. In Southern India, Shravan Purnima is an important religious occasion, especially for the Brahmins. Raksha Bandhan is known by various names: Vish Tarak - the destroyer of venom, Punya Pradayak - the bestower of boons, and Pap Nashak - the destroyer of sins.

The Social Binding

This ritual not only strengthens the bond of love between brothers and sisters, but also transcends the confines of the family. When a Rakhi is tied on the wrists of close friends and neighbors, it underscores the need for a harmonious social life, where every individual co-exist peacefully as brothers and sisters. All members of the community commit to protect each other and the society in such congregational Rakhi Utsavs, popularized by the Nobel laureate Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore.
The Friendly Knot

It won’t be wrong to say the fashionable friendship band in vogue today is an extension of the Rakhi custom. When a girl feels a friend of the opposite sex has developed a kind of love too strong for her to reciprocate, she sends the guy a Rakhi and turns the relationship into a sisterly one.
This is one way of saying, "let’s just be friends", without hurting the other person's soft feelings for her.

Why Rakhi?

Rituals like Rakhi, there is no doubt, help ease out various societal strains, induce fellow-feeling, open up channels of expression, give us an opportunity to rework on our role as human beings and, most importantly, bring joy in our mundane lives.
“May all be happy
May all be free from ills
May all behold only the good
May none be in distress.”

This has always been the idea of an ideal Hindu society.

Rakhi celebrations

Rakhi celebrations

Raksha Bandhan or Rakshabandhan (also known as Rakhi or Rakhi Purnima) celebrates the sacred love of brothers and sisters. Raksha means ‘protection’ and Bandhan means ‘bond’, therefore it means the bond of love and protection. Raksha Bandhan signifies the love and respect of a sister, as well as the protection and care of a brother.Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi as it is popularly known is celebrated on a full moon day in August with great fervour all over India and the celebrations remain same with little variation here and there that includes tying Rakhi on brother’s wrists, exchanging gifts and gorging on delicious sweets like gulab jamun, rasgulla, barfi, and chocolates.
On the auspicious day of Raksha Bandhan sisters get up early, have a bath and then pray to Lord Ganesha and then perform the aarti of brothers, put tilak and rice on their forehead and tie a Rakhi on his wrist. Following which sweets are exchanged and there is happiness all around. The celebrations continue throughout the day with families reuniting and doing fun activities together.
Siblings who are living away from each other send their wishes through phone or email and Rakhi is sent through the Rakhi cards.

  Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi as it is popularly known is celebrated on a full moon day in August with great fervour all over India and the celebrations remain same with little variation here and there that includes tying Rakhi on brother’s wrists, exchanging gifts and gorging on delicious sweets like gulab jamun, rasgulla, barfi, and chocolates.
On the auspicious day of Raksha Bandhan sisters get up early, have a bath and then pray to Lord Ganesha and then perform the aarti of brothers, put tilak and rice on their forehead and tie a Rakhi on his wrist. Following which sweets are exchanged and there is happiness all around. The celebrations continue throughout the day with families reuniting and doing fun activities together.
Siblings who are living away from each other send their wishes through phone or email and Rakhi is sent through the Rakhi cards.Raksha Bandhan is celebrated by using a sacred thread called “Rakhi”. It is made from cotton or silk.
                      Rakhi is to be tied around the wrist of brother from his sister. Sometimes, it can be a piece of precious jewellery like silver or gold bracelet. In 2015 also, many kinds of Rakhis will be available in the market like cartoon Rakhis for children, beautiful bigger Rakhis for young people and Rakhi threads for older people. Choose the Rakhi of your choice to celebrate the festival of Rakshabandhan in 2015.
Rakhi or Rakshabandhan is also celebrated between those who shares a caring relationship between each other, whether they are biologically related or not. Cousin brothers and sisters also celebrate Rakhi Poornima and shares the same bond of love and care. So, celebrate Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi Purnima in 2015 with your loved ones with full zeal and enthusiasm.


Significance of Raksha Bandhan

The basic significance of Raksha Bandhan is to strengthen the bond of love between the siblings.n 2015 also, Raksha Bandhan or we can say Rakhi Purnima spread the same message of this divine love.
In addition to that Raksha Bandhan also signifies a peaceful co-existence of every individual.Before celebrating Rakshabandhan festival in 2015, let’s discuss about its significance.
It is believed that Rakhi (blessed thread of cotton or silk) has the power to protect the brother or the one who tied Rakhi around his wrist, from all the evil or bad things. Rakhi blesses him and give him the power to win against all odds.
The brother give the promise to his sister that he will protect her from all the bad or harmful things of society. He will always support her in every (good or bad) situation and will always be with her, financially or physically when needed.