Mumbai: Raksha Bandhan, the cherished Indian festival celebrating the eternal bond between siblings, will be observed on 9 August 2025 this year. Falling on the full moon (Purnima) of the Shravan month, this festival has been a cornerstone of Indian tradition for centuries. On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread called rakhi on their brothers’ wrists, praying for their long life and happiness. In return, brothers vow to protect their sisters in every situation.
But beyond the customary brother-sister ritual, Raksha Bandhan has evolved to reflect deeper spiritual, emotional, and social connections. Hindu scriptures and cultural practices offer insights into who else can be honoured with a rakhi—ranging from gods to gurus, trees, and even soldiers guarding the nation.
In many households, the first rakhi is offered not to a sibling, but to a deity. Devotees often tie rakhi to Lord Krishna, Lord Shiva, or Lord Ganesha, acknowledging that God is the ultimate protector. This symbolic act expresses unwavering faith in divine guardianship.
For women who do not have brothers or have grown up solely with sisters, Raksha Bandhan still holds meaning. A younger sister may tie rakhi to her elder sister as a gesture of love, bonding, and mutual support—celebrating the essence of sisterhood.
In Indian culture, gurus are revered as equal to God. When a disciple ties rakhi to a teacher, it becomes a pledge of respect, loyalty, and commitment to upholding the values imparted by the guru.
In many pilgrimage towns like Vrindavan, Mathura, and Haridwar, it is common for women to tie rakhi to temple priests and saints. This expresses spiritual connection and reverence, recognising them as moral and spiritual guardians.
Raksha Bandhan is also a time to express gratitude to real-life protectors. Many women send or personally tie rakhis to soldiers, police personnel, and paramilitary forces. It is a heartfelt gesture that honours their role in safeguarding the nation.
In recent years, environmentalists have embraced the festival by tying rakhis to trees. This symbolic act represents a vow to protect nature and promote ecological balance—a tradition especially popular among schoolchildren and conservation groups.
According to the Hindu Panchang, the Purnima Tithi begins at 2:12 AM on 8 August 2025 and ends at 1:24 AM on 9 August 2025. As per Udaya Tithi (sunrise timing), Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on 9 August 2025.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not endorse or validate these claims.)
