Celebrating Raksha Bandhan 2024

Today, August 19, 2024, the joyous festival of Raksha Bandhan is being celebrated across the nation. This festival is a symbol of the love and bond between brothers and sisters. In Hindu culture, it holds a special significance, falling on the full moon day of Shravana.

This year, there is a unique aspect to Raksha Bandhan as it coincides with the last Monday of the Shravana month. Brothers are encouraged to first worship Lord Shiva today. Offerings such as Ganga water and milk should be made, alongside traditional items like bel leaves and dhatura.

The auspicious time to tie the rakhi is set between 1:32 PM and 9:07 PM. It is important to tie the rakhi according to this timing, ensuring it is done after the Bhadrakal period ends. During Bhadrakal, tying a rakhi is considered inauspicious.

When tying the rakhi, ensure to have a plate ready with roli, rice, sweets, and the rakhi itself. Start with a tilak on your brother’s forehead, then tie the rakhi on his right wrist and offer him sweets. Afterward, it’s customary to perform evening prayers to Lord Shiva for blessings.

Traditionally, only unmarried girls and men should tie the rakhi on their right wrist, while married women would use their left wrist. It is also advisable to avoid wearing black clothing on this day, as black is seen as a color connected to negativity and bad energy.

Additionally, this year brings various auspicious yogas such as Ravi Yoga and Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga, believed to bring prosperity when prayed to. The overall celebration of Raksha Bandhan signifies a bond that goes beyond mere words, tying hearts in love and unity.

In folklore, the festival is associated with Lord Vishnu’s promise to protect the universe, where the story of Goddess Lakshmi tying a rakhi on King Bali is told. Another tale recalls Draupadi tying a cloth on Lord Krishna’s wrist when he was injured, showcasing the deep-rooted traditions interconnected with this festival.