Though celebration styles and outlook of festivals tend to change with
time, their rituals, traditions and customs remain the same over
centuries. Only the mood becomes contemporary. Keeping with traditions,
the festival of Raksha Bandhan is celebrated in the same enthusiastic
traditional way. In fact, with the advent of modern information
technology, Rakhi has become more popular among the Indians living
abroad. The festival of Raksha Bandhan is marked by joy, happiness and
excitement all over India. The festive mood is more intense in the
younger lot.
The preparations for this pious festival begin well in advance. The
market places wear a festive look with different varieties of colorful
Rakhis on display in shops. Girls start the shopping and preparations
quite early for Rakhi. They shop for new clothes and buy Rakhis,
especially the ones that have to be sent to the brothers staying away.
The sweet shops, the garment shops, gift shops, all are swamped with
things to draw people. Rakhis are available in different sizes, colors
and shapes from the characteristic round ones to heart shaped,
symbolizing the bond of love between brothers and sisters.
With the day break people start getting ready and gather for the
worship ritual. A Rakhi Thali (plate) is prepared on which they put the
Rakhi, a diya (earthen lamp), water, roli (red threads), rice, vermilion
or turmeric powder and some sweets. Thereafter the Aarti ceremony takes
place and the sister puts tika and chaval on the brother's forehead and
ties Rakhi. This is accompanied by chanting of mantras. Then, the sister
gives him sweets, which is thought to bring good luck to the brother.
The brother vows to take care of his sister and be by her side in the
time of need. As a part of tradition he gives the sister return gifts
and sweets.
