Raksha Bandhan
The auspicious day of Raksha Bandhan is associated with celebrating the connection between a protector and a protectee. It is popularly known to celebrate the love between brothers and sisters who may or may not be biologically related. According to Hindu calendar it is observed on the full moon day of Shravan month which typically falls in the month of August. The term Raksha Bandhan originating from Sanskrit literally means ‘the bond of protection, obligation and care.’
Many historical and mythological stories are associated with this festival depicting its origin. Some of them are mentioned here-
The oldest story dates back to the reign of demon king Bali who had bound Lord Vishnu with a promise that He had to live with Bali as his doorman. Meanwhile, Vishnu’s consort Laxmi [goddess of wealth] was missing Him in Vaikunth. So, disguising herself as a lonely and helpless woman She approached Bali. The generous king gave her shelter. With Laxmi’s arrival Bali began prospering rapidly. Laxmi tied a colored thread on Bali’s wrist for protection and Bali in return promised to fulfill her wish. Laxmi instantly asked for Vishnu’s return and Bali readily agreed.
Another famous story is related with Sri Krishna and Draupadi. When Lord Krishna hurt his finger while killing the evil king Shishupal, Draupadi at once tore a strip of her saree and tied it around his bleeding finger. Krishna, touched by her affection, pledged to repay her debt in future. After many years when Draupadi’s honor was at stake in the infamous game of dice in Hastinapur, Krishna protected her dignity and thus repayed her debt.
According to another legend Yama, the god of death and Yamuna, the holy river were brother and sister. On this sacred day when Yamuna tied the holy thread to Yama he gave her the boon of immortality and also declared that every brother who keeps the honor of the raksha-sutra by protecting his sister would also be immortal.
Famous episodes of the spirit of rakhi being invoked abound in Indian history. For instance, Rani Karnavati Chittor sent a rakhi to Humanyun, seeking help against attack by Bahadur Shah. In 326 BC when Alexander invaded India , his wife Roxana wanted to assure her husband’s safety. Knowing about the Indian tradition she sent a sacred thread to king Porus asking him not to harm her husband. Honoring her request king Porus refrained from killing Alexander. The tradition was also used to emphasize people’s unity in protests against partition Bengal in 1905 by the British.
Devotees and disciples offer rakhis to their god and Guru asking for their blessings and eternal protection. Celebrated since the ancient times, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated fervently till date in its spirit of bond of affection and promise of protection.
Author Ms Hema Trivedi is an ardent devotee of Sri Krishna.