3 November•Krishna Paksha Navami

Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan

Sacred festival celebrating the bond of protection and unconditional love between brothers and sisters on Shravana Purnima.

Presiding DeityLord Krishna & Devi Yamuna
CategoryMajor Hindu Festival

Significance & Spiritual Meaning

Spiritual philosophy, inner meaning and eternal virtues

Significance & Spiritual Meaning

Raksha Bandhan (also known as Rakhi Purnima) is an ancient Hindu festival celebrating the sacred covenant of mutual love, respect, and lifelong protection between siblings. Sisters tie a sacred consecrated thread (Rakhi) around their brothers' right wrists, apply a Tilak on their foreheads, and pray for their longevity, prosperity, and happiness. In return, brothers offer gifts, sweets, and take a solemn vow to protect and support their sisters throughout life.

Spiritual philosophy, inner meaning and eternal virtues

Signifies the inviolable bond of protection (Raksha) and duty (Dharma). According to the Bhavishya Purana, Devi Shachi tied a sacred thread to Lord Indra to protect him during the cosmic battle against Vritrasura. It also commemorates the sacred relationship between Bhagavan Shri Krishna and Draupadi, and King Bali and Devi Lakshmi.

Key Rituals & Observance

Step-by-step sacred rituals and worship practices

  1. 1Step 1

    Pratah Snana (holy morning bath) and worship of family deities, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Shiva.

  2. 2Step 2

    Strict avoidance of Bhadra Kaal (Vishti Karana) for tying Rakhi, as Bhadra is inauspicious.

  3. 3Step 3

    Performing Raksha Bandhan ritual during Aparahna (afternoon) or Pradosha Kaal when Purnima prevails without Bhadra.

  4. 4Step 4

    Sisters prepare a Puja Thali with Rakhi threads, Roli (Kumkum), Akshata (unbroken rice), Diya, and sweets.

  5. 5Step 5

    Tying Rakhi on brother's right wrist with sacred Vedic mantra chant and offering sweetmeats.

  6. 6Step 6

    Upakarma and Shravani (sacred thread renewal ceremony) performed by Brahmins and Vedic scholars on this Purnima.

Sacred Deity & Powerful Mantras

Lord Krishna & Devi Yamuna • Vedic and Puranic chants for peace and blessings

येन बद्धो बली राजा दानवेन्द्रो महाबलः। तेन त्वामनुबध्नामि रक्षे मा चल मा चल॥