Raksha Bandhan stands as a significant Hindu festival celebrating the special bond between siblings.
During this occasion, a sister ceremoniously ties a sacred
thread called "Rakhi" around her brother's wrist, conveying her
wishes for his happiness and a good life. In return, the brother offers his
blessings and assures his sister of his protection and support in all
circumstances.
As time passes, the traditions of Rakhi are evolving,
including practices like exchanging gifts or sisters tying Rakhi’s on each
other. This evolution prompts us to ponder on the festival's historical
celebrations and origins.
Upon delving into its history, we've unearthed some
captivating Raksha Bandhan stories that might not be widely known.
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| Raksha Bandhan commemorates the bond of love and affection shared between siblings. (Image Courtesy- Unsplash) |
Here are ten such tales that offer an intriguing glimpse
into the festival's rich background:
1. Indrani and Indra- In Hindu mythology, the concept
of Raksha Bandhan extends beyond brother-sister relationships. The first Rakhi
was tied by Goddess Sachi to her husband Lord Indra for protection during a
divine conflict, showcasing that the festival symbolizes more than just sibling
bonds.
2. Yamuna and Yama- The tale of Yamuna and Yama
demonstrates another facet of Raksha Bandhan. When Yama, the God of Death,
finally visited his sister Yamuna after years of absence, she tied a Rakhi on
his wrist. Touched by her love, Yama granted her the gift of immortality.
3. Krishna and Draupadi- Raksha Bandhan is also depicted
in the story of Lord Krishna and Draupadi from the Mahabharata. When Krishna
injured his finger, Draupadi tore her saree to bind it. Grateful for her
action, Krishna pledged to protect her, a promise he fulfilled during her times
of need.
4. Goddess Laxmi and Bali- In the narrative involving
Goddess Laxmi and King Bali, the sacred thread of Rakhi transcends familial
connections. Laxmi tied a Rakhi to Bali, her husband, seeking protection while
Lord Vishnu, in disguise, offered his shelter. This narrative underscores the
festival's broader significance.
5. Birth of Santoshi Ma- The origin of Santoshi Ma is
linked to Raksha Bandhan when Lord Ganesha's sons desired a sister. Ganesha
created Santoshi Ma from fire to fulfill their wish, highlighting how the
festival can extend to diverse relationships.
6. Krishna's Advice to Yudhishthira- Lord Krishna
advised King Yudhishthira to tie a Rakhi on his wrist as a protective ritual
for his brothers before the Kurukshetra war, showing that Raksha Bandhan is
about safeguarding loved ones.
7. Roxana and Porus- In the historical account
involving Roxana, Alexander the Great's wife, and Porus, Rakhi served as a
symbol of protection. Roxana's Rakhi stopped Porus from harming Alexander during
battle, exemplifying the festival's broader role.
8. Queen Karnavati and Emperor Humayun- The story of
Queen Karnavati reaching out to Emperor Humayun showcases Rakhi as a plea for
support and protection even across kingdoms, emphasizing the festival's
universal theme of care and safeguarding.
9. Maharani Jindan and Nepal- Maharani Jindan's Rakhi
to the ruler of Nepal highlights Raksha Bandhan's historical instances where it
went beyond familial ties, serving as a symbol of seeking refuge and assurance.
10. Tagore's Rakhi Mohotsav- Rabindranath Tagore's
initiative of Rakhi Mohotsav during Bengal's partition illustrates how Raksha
Bandhan can bridge communities and promote unity, showcasing its enduring
message of love and harmony.
The history of Raksha Bandhan is rich and diverse,
encompassing various relationships beyond just brothers and sisters. The
festival's essence lies in the commitment to protect and support one another,
transcending boundaries and fostering love and unity among people. Whether tied
between siblings, partners, friends, or even across kingdoms, Raksha Bandhan
embodies the spirit of caring and safeguarding loved ones.
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