Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi or Avani Avittam
Family Ties
Rakhi, is a well loved and celebrated holiday for brothers and sisters all over India. The bond between brothers and sisters is very special. It is a reaffirmation of love and affection between siblings and a promise to always be there when needed. Traditionally a brother promises to always protect his sister, A promise that can be called upon even when the sister has left the household and married.
When looking at Rakhi it is also important to note that this bond of brother-sister is not limited to actual siblings sharing the same mother or father. The brother-sister bond also includes step-siblings, close family friends, and cousins. (It is important to note that first cousins on both sides are considered cousin-brothers and cousin-sisters. Sometimes, this extends past first cousins into second or third cousins).
CELEBRATIONS
Raksha Bandhan (rakhis) day starts with a festive mood in every Indian home. Rakhis (bracelets of thread) are made or bought before the festival. Traditional sweets and foods are prepared early in the morning. If the sister and brother live in the same house, the rituals and celebrations will take place there. Sometimes, a brother or sister has to travel a small distance to a cousin's house. If the brother and sister live far apart, the rakhi will be mailed to the brother and his gift to the sister will be mailed to her. Celebrations vary locally and regionally. However, the rituals are similar.
RITUALS
After an early bath, the rituals takes place. The sister invites her brother to wear the rakhi and reaffirm the bond of love. She applies `tilak' or vermilion powder on his forehead and ties the rakhi on the right hand. She then performs aarti (a prayer in which a large tray laden with oil lamp, flowers and food is passed in a clockwise manner around the person) and offers her brother some sweets. After she completes the traditional formalities, the brother gives her a gift as a token of his love and affection. It could be in the form of jewelery, new clothes, money or blessings
LEGENDS
Even though Rakhi is a brother sister holiday, the legend associated with the holiday actually takes place between a husband and wife.:
There was a fierce battle between the Gods and the demons. Indra, the king of Gods, became anxious and asked Bruhaspathi to suggest a way out. Meanwhile, Indrani (wife of Indra) who was around at the time of consultation, spoke her mind even before Bruhaspati could strike upon an idea. She assured them of turning the tables in the Gods' favour. She consulted some old scriptures and prepared a talisman which she tied to her husband's wrist. Indra went to the battlefield again and came back victorious. Ever since the tradition of tying the thread began and it was believed that the persons would be blessed with health, wealth and happiness. Over time however, the significance of rakhi moved on from battlefields to personal relations reflecting the bond of affection. Sisters tied rakhi to their brothers asking for protection. While the sisters also prayed for their brothers' welfare, the latter vowed to take care of them even if it called for some sacrifice on their part.
