Raksha Bandhan 2023: Date, Shubh Muhurat, History, Significance, and Celebration

Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi, is a popular festival in India that celebrates the bond between siblings. It is celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Shravan, which falls in August or September according to the Gregorian calendar.

Date and Shubh Muhurat

Raksha Bandhan 2023 will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 30, 2023. The auspicious time to tie a rakhi is between 10:58 a.m. on August 30 and 7:05 a.m. on August 31.

History of Raksha Bandhan:

Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi, is a Hindu festival that celebrates the bond of love and protection between brothers and sisters. The word "Raksha" means protection, and "Bandhan" means bond or tie. The festival has its roots in ancient Indian history and mythology.

One of the most well-known stories associated with Raksha Bandhan comes from the Mahabharata, an ancient Indian epic. According to this legend, Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, tore a strip of her sari and tied it around Lord Krishna's wrist to stop the bleeding from a wound. Touched by her gesture, Krishna vowed to protect her and came to her aid during her time of need.

Another legend involves the Rajput queen Karnavati and Emperor Humayun. When Karnavati realized she couldn't defend her kingdom from an imminent attack, she sent a rakhi to Emperor Humayun, seeking his protection. He honored the rakhi and came to her rescue.

Significance of Raksha Bandhan:

Raksha Bandhan is a celebration of the special bond between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread (rakhi) around their brothers' wrists as a symbol of love, care, and protection. In return, brothers offer gifts and promise to protect their sisters from any harm or difficulties. The rakhi is not only a physical thread but also carries emotional significance, reinforcing the strong connection between siblings.

The festival extends beyond biological siblings to include cousins, friends, and even neighbors, symbolizing a broader sense of community and unity. Raksha Bandhan reinforces the values of love, trust, and mutual respect.

In some regions, Raksha Bandhan is also associated with other meanings. For example, in northern India, it is tied to the festival of Janmashtami, celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna. In western India, it's celebrated alongside the festival of Nariyal Purnima, where coconuts are offered to the sea as a gesture of gratitude.

Celebration

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated with great enthusiasm all over India. On the day of the festival, sisters wake up early and prepare a special meal for their brothers. They then tie rakhis on their brothers' wrists and seek their blessings. Brothers, in turn, give gifts to their sisters and promise to protect them always.

The festival is also celebrated by other communities in India, such as the Jains and the Sikhs. It is also celebrated in other countries, such as Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.

Other things to know

• The word "Raksha" means "protection" and "Bandhan" means "bond".
• The rakhi is usually made of cotton or silk thread. It is often decorated with flowers, beads, and other auspicious symbols.
• The festival is also celebrated by non-Hindus in India, such as Muslims and Christians.
• Raksha Bandhan is a day of joy and celebration, and it is a time for families to come together and strengthen their bonds.

I hope this blog post has helped you learn more about Raksha Bandhan 2023. If you have any questions, please let us know.