What is the story about?
Raksha Bandhan is an important Hindu festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. The term ‘Raksha Bandhan’ translates to ‘bond of protection’.
On this day, sisters tie a rakhi, which is a sacred thread, around their brothers’ wrists and perform their Aarti. It is believed that this ritual protects the brother from negative forces. In return, the brothers present their sisters with gifts and promise to always protect them.
When Is Raksha Bandhan?
According to the Hindu calendar, the Purnima Tithi begins at 09:08 AM on August 27, 2026, and ends at 09:48 AM on August 28, 2026. Since the festival is tied to this specific date, the correct day to celebrate falls on August 28.Many people also wait for an auspicious window before tying the rakhi, since the Bhadra period is considered unfit for the ceremony. This year, there is good news for everyone. The Bhadra period gets over before sunrise itself, so there is no need to wait for it to end during the day. This means the entire morning window is free for the celebration.
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The best time to tie the rakhi this year is between 05:57 AM and 09:48 AM. Families can perform the thread ceremony any time within this window without worrying about inauspicious timings.
On Which Hand Should You Be Tying The Rakhi?
In Hindu culture, the right hand is considered more auspicious than the left. Tying a rakhi on the right wrist is deemed as a symbolic gesture through which sisters express their love and prayers for their brothers’ well-being.
However, as per the scriptures, men and unmarried girls should tie the Rakshasutra in the right hand and married women should tie the Kalava in the left hand. While tying the Kalava, the fist of that hand should be kept closed and the other hand should be kept on the head.
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From a psychological point of view, when Kalawa is tied on the hand, the person feels that God himself is protecting him. This brings peace in the mind and increases self-confidence.
History Of The Festival
This festival is also linked to numerous stories from Hindu mythology and traditions. One of the most popular stories being of Lord Krishna and Draupadi, where she tore off and tied a strip of her saree cloth to his bleeding wrist and in return, he vowed to always protect her from harm. Another such story is of Yama and Yamuna, where Yamuna tied a rakhi to her brother Yama to pray for his well-being. In return, he bestowed upon her the gift of immortality. These stories just tell us that rakhi is a divine thread that is blessed with the sacred power of protection and love.Disclaimer: This article is based on popular beliefs. Times Now is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of the information and facts provided here.
