Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan

1. Rakhi or RakshaBandhan A bond to defend each other Raksha –Defend or Protect , Bandhan-Bond

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3. What is it? • Raksha Bandhan, (the bond of protection) or Rakhi is a Hindu festival primarily observed in India, Mauritius and Nepal • It celebrates the relationship between brothers and sisters.

4. Origin of RakshaBandhan • Ancient festival - originated from Bhavishya Purana • Initiation of new disciple by a Guru • Brother-Sister festival

5. History • The popular practice of RakshaBandhan has its historical associations also. • The Rajput queens practised the custom of sending rakhi threads to neighbouring rulers as token of brotherhood.

6. Ceremony • The central ceremony involves the tying of a rakhi  (sacred thread) by a sister on her brother's wrist. • This symbolizes the sister's love and prayers for her brother's well-being, and the brother's lifelong vow to protect her.

7. Ceremony • The festival is marked by the tying of a rakhi, or holy thread, which comes in many colors and designs, by the sister on the wrist of her brother. • The brother in return offers a gift to his sister and vows to look after her as she presents sweets to him. • The brother usually presents his sister with an envelope filled with money, though other presents such as saris and clothing can be given. • The brother and sister traditionally feed one another sweets.Thesesweets include anything from Jalebi, KajuKatli, and Burfi.

8. Raksha Bandhan Rakhi (Raksha) symbolizes a spirit ofbrotherhood and harmony amongst all sections of society, irrespective of race, religion, and color. On this auspicious occasion we inspire ourselves with the true spirit of service and sacrifice for the welfare of the society and find therein the highest spiritual fulfillment of human life.

9. Social Aspects The tradition of Raksha Bandhan is not limited to bother and sisters alone. Rakhi is also tied on the wrists of policemen, security personnel, armed forces personnel, other public officials and statesmen. In return, the public officials vow to protect the society and uphold justice and unparalleled zeal and vigor. The sister-brother relationship portrayed by the rakhi is far deeper than simply the brother protecting his sister.

10. Mantra for Global Peace … • Rakhi symbolizes a commitment to protect each other. • Rakhi reminds us to commit ourselves to our community and to the righteousness. • Rakhi develops cohesion in society • Rakhi creates a spirit of selfless social service. • Rakhi imparts the highest spiritual fulfillment of human life.