Chandigarh: This year's Raksha Bandhan, which falls on Saturday, August 9, comes with specific guidance from renowned astrologer Acharya Om Prakash. He indicates that the most favorable time, or shubh muhurat, for tying the sacred rakhi is between 5:47 AM and 1:24 PM.

According to Acharya Om Prakash, the Purnima Tithi, marking the full moon phase, will commence on August 8 at 2:12 PM and conclude on August 9 at 1:24 PM. He emphasizes that the rakhi ceremony should ideally take place during this Purnima period, particularly in the morning hours of August 9, which are astrologically significant and devoid of negative influences.

One such negative influence to be mindful of is the Bhadra period, traditionally avoided for tying rakhi. Acharya Om Prakash notes that Bhadra will end before sunrise on Raksha Bandhan, providing devotees with an uninterrupted auspicious window from early morning until the Purnima Tithi concludes.

In traditional Panchang calculations, the Aparahna Muhurat, which refers to the late afternoon period, is often deemed a favorable time for various Purnima rituals. However, this year presents a unique situation. The Aparahna Muhurat on August 9 is set between 1:41 PM and 2:54 PM, but the Purnima Tithi will have already ended at 1:24 PM. Therefore, those wishing to adhere strictly to astrological guidelines should complete the rakhi tying ceremony in the morning hours, as advised by the Acharya.

Beyond the astrological aspects, Acharya Om Prakash highlights that the true essence of the festival lies in the sibling bond. He states, “While timings enhance the spiritual significance of the ritual, the love and blessings exchanged are the true essence of Raksha Bandhan.”

Celebrated on the full moon of the Shravan month, Raksha Bandhan symbolizes a sister's prayers for her brother's longevity and a brother's promise of protection. Families across India and beyond are expected to gather early this year, in line with the auspicious timings suggested by Acharya Om Prakash.

“Conducting the ceremony within the specified time frame ensures the blessings of Chandra Dev (the Moon God) and fortifies the emotional and spiritual ties between siblings,” the Acharya concluded.