Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi, is a major Hindu festival celebrating the deep and eternal bond of love, protection, and respect between siblings. The word “Raksha” means protection, and “Bandhan” means bond, making Raksha Bandhan the “bond of protection” in Sanskrit.
Raksha Bandhan is a beautiful Indian festival that celebrates the special bond of love, care, and protection between brothers and sisters. On this auspicious day, sisters tie a sacred rakhi on their brothers’ wrists and pray for their happiness and long life, while brothers promise to protect and support them always. The festival is incomplete without delicious festive foods, as families come together to share traditional sweets and savory dishes that add joy and flavor to the celebration. Preparing special homemade recipes for Rakhi makes the occasion even more memorable and meaningful.
Raksha Bandhan 2026 Date
Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu lunar month Shravana, usually in July or August.
Auspicious Time for Rakhi(Muhurat)
- Date: Friday, August 28, 2026
- Muhurat (Best time to tie Rakhi):
Rituals of Rakhi – Step-by-Step Guide
Sister’s Rituals:
- Prepares a Puja Thali containing:
- Rakhi (decorative thread)
- Kumkum or Haldi
- Akshata
- Sweets (laddu, barfi)
- Diya (oil lamp)
- Performs Tilak & Aarti:
- Applies tilak on brother’s forehead.
- Performs aarti with the lamp.
- Ties the rakhi on his right wrist.
- Feeds him sweets as a symbol of affection.
Brother’s Role:
- Blesses the sister.
- Promises to protect her throughout life.
- Gives her gifts or money, as a token of love.
- Expresses gratitude and emotional connection.
Beyond Biological Siblings
While traditionally Rakhi is between a brother and sister by blood, modern Raksha Bandhan celebrates many forms of protective and loving relationships:
- Cousins and extended family
- Sisters-in-law (Bhabhi Rakhi)
- Close friends (emotional siblings)
- Spiritual guides or mentors
- Indian soldiers, symbolizing national unity
Significance of Raksha Bandhan
- Promotes love, duty, and emotional strength among family members.
- Emphasizes mutual respect and a vow of protection.
- Encourages togetherness and communal harmony, often cutting across caste, class, and even religion.
- Serves as a reminder of shared values, respect for women, and protection of the vulnerable.
Festive Foods Made for Rakhi
Rakhi is also about sharing delicious food! Popular items include:
- Laddus – Besan, coconut, boondi
- Kheer – Rice or vermicelli milk pudding
- Puran Poli – Especially in Maharashtra
- Peda, Barfi, and Halwa
- Pulao, Chole-Poori, or a full festive thali
Rakhi for Soldiers and Community Leaders
In recent times, many women tie rakhis to:
- Indian soldiers to honor their sacrifice.
- Teachers, police officers, and doctors, symbolizing gratitude and social responsibility.