Raksha Bandhan is a special festival celebrated mainly in India and other parts of the world where Hinduism is observed. Raksha Bandhan 2023 falls on August 30 this year, but some people celebrate it today, on August 31. The festival is a beautiful blend of tradition, culture, and the love between siblings.

Why Do We Celebrate Raksha Bandhan?

The festival is deeply rooted in Hindu tradition. On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread, Rakhi, around their brothers’ wrists. This act symbolizes the sister’s love and prayers for her brother’s well-being and the brother’s lifelong vow to protect her. The festival is observed on the last day of the Hindu lunar calendar month of Shraavana, which typically falls in August.

Raksha Bandhan 2023 Date and Shubh Muhurat

According to the information from Hindustan Times, Raksha Bandhan 2023 falls on August 30 and 31. The two dates are because of Bhadra Kaal, during which one should not perform Raksha Bandhan rituals. The Raksha Bandhan Bhadra Kaal’s end time is at 9:01 p.m. on August 30. Therefore, you can perform rituals at this time. The Poornima Tithi (Full Moon) starts on August 30 at 10:58 a.m. and ends on August 31 at 7:05 a.m.

Raksha Bandhan 2023: Best Wishes

Raksha Bandhan: Ancient History

The history of Raksha Bandhan is rich and goes back many years. Mango and Marigold Press cite legends about Alexander the Great as far back as 326 BCE, mentioning the festival. But let’s look at some stories from Hindu scriptures that tell us more about this festival.

• Sachi and Indra: In the Bhavishya Puran, Sachi, the wife of Indra, tied a thread around his wrist to protect him in a battle against a powerful demon king named Bali. This shows that the Rakhi thread was not just for brothers and sisters but also served as a protection charm for men going to war.
• Lakshmi and Bali: In the Bhagavat Puran and Vishnu Puran, after Vishnu conquered three worlds from King Bali, Bali asked Vishnu to live in his palace. Goddess Lakshmi, Vishnu’s wife, was not happy about this. She tied a Rakhi on King Bali, making him her brother. Lakshmi requested Vishnu to go home, and Bali granted her wish.
• Shubh, Labh, and Santoshi Maa: Ganesh’s sons, Shubh and Labh, wanted a sister to celebrate Raksha Bandhan. After much convincing, Ganesh created Santoshi Maa, and the three siblings celebrated Raksha Bandhan every year after that.
• Krishna and Draupadi: Krishna and Draupadi were good friends. When Krishna hurt his finger, Draupadi tore a piece of her sari to bandage it. Krishna promised to protect her, which he kept when Draupadi faced danger later.

These stories show that Raksha Bandhan is not just about the bond between brothers and sisters. It’s also about protection, love, and our duties for each other.

Raksha Bandhan is a festival that has stood the test of time. It’s a day that strengthens the bond between brothers and sisters, reminding them of their duties towards each other. So, on this Raksha Bandhan 2023, let’s cherish these bonds and celebrate the love and duties that come with them.

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