Raksha-Bandhan, << RUHK shuh BUHN duhn, >> is a Hindu festival that celebrates the special bond between brothers and sisters. It falls on the day of the full moon in the Hindu month of Shravana (July or August). It is especially popular in northern and western India. The name Raksha-Bandhan in Hindi means a bond of protection.
On the day of the festival, women and girls tie bracelets known as rakhis around the right wrists of their brothers or other male relatives or close friends. The rakhis may be simple, consisting of a cotton or silk thread, or fancy, with flowers, beading, or other decorations. Men and boys also may give their sisters small gifts as a sign of their affection. This exchange symbolizes the love and support of a sister for her brother and the commitment of a brother to always stand by and protect his sister. Outside the family, Raksha-Bandhan emphasizes the importance of siblinglike bonds between all the members of a harmonious society.
Raksha-Bandhan has its origin in a story from the sacred Hindu writings known as the Vedas. This story tells how the wife of the god Indra tied a silken thread around his wrist to protect him during a great battle between the gods and demons. The gods won the battle.
