Raksha Bandhan: A Bond of Purity
and Protection
Raksha Bandhan, meaning “the bond of purity and protection,” is a sacred festival that celebrates the beautiful relationship between brothers and sisters. On this auspicious day, a sister ties a Rakhi—a decorated thread—on her brother’s wrist, applies a tilak to his forehead, sweetens his mouth, and prays for his well-being and longevity. In return, the brother pledges to protect her honour and dignity, even at the cost of his own life, and offers her gifts as a token of love.
This sacred thread carries deep emotions and values, strengthening the timeless bond between siblings.
The Legends Behind Raksha Bandhan
Various legends enrich the significance of Raksha Bandhan:
Indrani and Lord Vishnu: Indrani, the wife of Lord Indra, tied a protective thread blessed by Lord Vishnu around Indra’s wrist before he went to battle against demons.
Yamuna and Yama: When Yamuna tied a Rakhi to her brother Yama, the Lord of Death, he was so touched by her affection that he granted her immortality and declared that brothers who protect their sisters with true love would be blessed with longevity.
Rani Karnavati and Emperor Humayun: Rani Karnavati sent a Rakhi to the Mughal emperor Humayun seeking protection from an enemy invasion. Touched by the gesture, Humayun rushed to defend her kingdom. This legend beautifully exemplifies that Raksha Bandhan transcends religion and promotes unity, nobility, and duty.
The True Spiritual Significance
The Supreme Soul teaches us that Raksha Bandhan is not merely a ritual, but a symbolic vow of self-transformation. The Rakhi represents a spiritual decision to overcome our inner demons—anger, ego, lust, greed, and attachment—and awaken divine qualities within.
It is a moment to recognise that the real battle is not against external enemies, but the negative traits within us. By tying the Rakhi, we reaffirm our commitment to purity, self-mastery, and divine living.
At Brahma Kumaris, this festival is celebrated as a time to empower men and women alike, by invoking blessings from Incorporeal God Shiva, the Supreme Father. Sisters offer Rakhis to brothers with the pure intention of reminding them of their spiritual responsibilities.
Why were the tying of a thread chosen as the ritual for this day? The sacred thread was tied on the right wrist, which signifies righteousness. Most people use their right hand to perform actions, so tying the thread on the right wrist served as a symbolic reminder. Before engaging in any act, seeing or feeling the thread would remind the individual of the vow they took—to act virtuously and steer clear of vices.
Thus, the thread became a spiritual marker, not just a decorative symbol of sibling love, but a deeper reminder of one’s commitment to purity and moral action.
Raksha Bandhan and Universal Brotherhood
The story of Rani Karnavati and Humayun conveys a powerful message: this festival is not limited to one religion or region. It promotes the values of universal brotherhood, protection, and love.
In today’s world, where divisions are growing, Raksha Bandhan reminds us to see all as part of one human family and to treat every soul with dignity and care.
A Vow for Purity and Brotherhood
Let us take this sacred occasion as an opportunity to vow:
To maintain purity in thoughts, words, and actions
To see every soul as a child of God and promote universal brotherhood
To make sincere efforts to become vice-less, peaceful, and loving beings
By living with divine virtues, our life’s journey becomes smoother, and we contribute to creating a beautiful, elevated world.
Wishing everyone multimillion-fold congratulations on this most auspicious and spiritually uplifting festival of Raksha Bandhan.
Brahma Kumaris Shailer Park invites you to join our free self-development courses, designed to help you experience greater peace, clarity, and emotional well-being.
Raja Yoga Meditation: Learn a practical form of meditation that helps you reconnect with your inner self, reduce stress, and build inner resilience.
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Please contact us on 0414685144 or [email protected] for further information. All courses are free of charge and open to everyone.
Come and experience a journey of self-transformation in a peaceful and supportive environment.
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Om Shanti.
