Raksha Bandhan is celebrated as Rakhi Purnima in the northern and
northwestern parts of India with traditional gaiety and fervor. Though
Rakhi Purnima is celebrated in many parts of India, it has different
names, rituals and customs. On Rakhi Purnima or Raksha Bandhan, sisters
tie a sacred thread around the wrists of their brothers and pray for
their long life. This holy thread is called Rakhi- the bond of
protection. In our scriptures Raksha Bandhan has been described as
'Punya Pradayak' (bestower of boons), 'Vish Tarak' (destroyer of venom),
and 'Pap Nashak' (destroyer of sins).
On the Raksha Bandhan day, following an early bath, the Puja
(worshipping of God) takes place. Before tying the sacred thread, the
sister performs "Aarti". It is done to bring the blessings of
the God on her brother. All these rituals are accompanied by chanting of
"mantras" (sacred hymns). Putting of "tilak" on the
forehead of the brother is also an important part of the ritual. The
Rakhi Purnima is important in more than one way. It acquires different
forms through out India. Though each region may have different reasons,
names and rituals for Raksha Bandhan (Rakhi Purnima) but one thing
always remains the same i.e. the close bond of love and care between
brothers and sister.
