Today (19/08/2024) is the traditional Hindu festival of Raksha Bandhan. Often referred to as “Rakhi”, and observed annually on the last day of the Hindu month Shraavana, it is a celebration of the special bond between brothers and sisters.
“Raksha” roughly translates as protection, whilst “Bandhan” means tie or bond. Thus, “Raksha Bandhan” means “bond of protection”. During this religious festival sisters tie a sacred thread, called Rakhi, around the wrists of their brothers. This symbolises the strong bond between siblings, as well as the love that sisters have for their brothers. In return, brothers give their sisters money and gifts, an act which likewise conveys their appreciation of, and love for, their sisters. The tying of the Rakhi and associated gift giving is also symbolic of the bond of eternal protection and support that exists between siblings.
British Online Archives would like to wish all those partaking a very happy Raksha Bandhan!