The Raksha Bandhan festival is celebrated to commemorate the
everlasting bond between brothers and sisters. Though it is marked by a
simple ceremony, in which a woman ties a Rakhi on her brother's wrist,
but it has got a great significance. The word Raksha signifies
protection where as Bandhan means an enduring bond of love. The brother,
on his part, recognizes this special bond and by extending his wrist
forward, he in fact extends the hand of protection over his sister.
Another significant and important part of the Rakhi-tying ceremony is
the Aarti ritual. This is done with a view to draw the blessings of God
upon her brother. The following mantra (in Sanskrit) conveys the whole
significance of Raksha Bandhan.
