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A Hindu festival celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters, where sisters tie a protective thread (rakhi) on their brothers' wrists and receive gifts or blessings in return.
रक्षाबंधन पर सभी बहनें अपने भाइयों को राखी बाँधती हैं।
On Raksha Bandhan, all sisters tie rakhi to their brothers.
इस त्योहार में भाई अपनी बहनों की रक्षा करने का वादा करते हैं।
During this festival, brothers promise to protect their sisters.
Primarily observed in India and Nepal, but celebrated by Hindu communities worldwide.
Raksha Bandhan symbolizes the unconditional love and duty between siblings. While traditionally observed by brothers and sisters, it is now also celebrated among cousins, friends, and even colleagues in modern times.
The word is pronounced 'ruk-shah-BUN-dhan' with stress on the third syllable. The 'रक्षा' part is pronounced 'ruk-shah' (like 'ruck' + 'shah').
From Sanskrit 'raksha' (protection) + 'bandhan' (bond/tie). The festival's origins trace back to ancient Hindu mythology, including the legend of Queen Draupadi and Lord Krishna.
Celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu lunar month of Shravana (July–August). Modern celebrations often include family gatherings, sweets, and gifts alongside the traditional rakhi-tying ceremony.