WHY DO HINDUS CELEBRATE RAKSHABANDHAN

 Rakshabandhan is a festival that celebrates the bond between sisters and brothers. It is also known as Rakhi, Saluno, Silono, or Rakri, depending on the region and language. The word Rakshabandhan means "the tie of protection" in Sanskrit.

On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread or amulet called the rakhi around the wrists of their brothers, symbolizing their love and prayers for their well-being. Brothers in return vow to protect and support their sisters and give them gifts. The rakhi is usually made of silk or cotton and may be decorated with beads, sequins, or other ornaments.

The origin of Rakshabandhan is not clear, but there are many legends and stories associated with it. One of the most popular ones is about Rani Karnavati, a 16th-century queen of Chittorgarh in Rajasthan, who sent a rakhi to the Mughal emperor Humayun, asking for his help against an invading sultan. Humayun accepted her as his sister and sent his troops to defend her, but they arrived too late to save her from committing self-immolation with other women of the fort.

Another story is about Yama, the god of death, and his sister Yamuna, the river goddess. Yamuna tied a rakhi to Yama and prayed for his immortality. Yama was so moved by her affection that he granted her wish and declared that whoever receives a rakhi from his sister will be blessed with long life and happiness.

Rakshabandhan is not limited to blood relationships. Sisters can also tie rakhis to those who are like brothers to them, such as friends, cousins, or neighbors. Similarly, brothers can offer protection and support to any sister who ties a rakhi to them. This shows the openness and inclusiveness of Hindu culture, which values family and friendship above all.

Rakshabandhan is celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Shravana in the Hindu lunar calendar, which usually falls in August. It is a joyous occasion that brings together families and communities. People wear new clothes, exchange sweets, and share blessings. Rakshabandhan is also a time to remember the values of love, loyalty, and harmony that bind us all together.