Raksha Bandhan

Festival Description

Raksha Bandhan
          Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi Pournami is the celebration of the bonding between sister and brother. Raksha stands for protection and Bandhan stands for bond. On this auspicious day, Sisters tie Rakhis on the wrists of their brothers which symbolizes the protection and care. Brothers in turn gift something in return to their sisters.
According to the Hindu mythology, there are many origins to this festival. Yama used to receive a sacred thread tied on his wrist on every Shravana Purnima day by Goddess Yamuna. Pleased by this gesture, Yama would grant immortality to the brothers who get Rakhi tied on this day. According to other legend; During the war with King Shishupal, Lord Krishna was hurt and was left bleeding. Draupadi tore a piece of her sari and tied it around the wrist of Lord Krishna. Touched by the actions of Draupadi, Lord Krishna promised to protect her whenever she needed help. As per other famous legend; Lord Vishnu fought and won the three worlds from the demon king Bali, was asked by Bali to stay beside him. But Goddess Lakshmi, the wife of Lord Vishnu wanted to return to her native place Vaikuntha. She tied a Rakhi to the wrist of Bali and made him a brother and was promised a return gift by Bali. She asked her to free Lord Vishnu and allow them to return to their native place to which Bali agreed.