Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Indian Heritage Festival of Raksha Bandhan



As with other Indian festivals, Rakhi also follows the festival calender that is completely based on the weather changes and their significance in the lives of people.

Origins of Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan

The festival of Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan is understood to have a history of around 6000 years. It came into existence with Aryans when they created The Indus Valley Civilization. Raksha Bandhan has a rich Indian mythological base. Many historically significant epics are related to the origin and the subsequent development of Rakhi. This festival also finds a mention in most of the Indian epics.

Rakhi – How Much a Religious Festival

Rakhi is considered by many of us as having a religious origin. But, there have been many occasions in history that have emphasized the relationship between a brother and a sister more than the religious side of it. Gradually, over the centuries and over time Rakhi has lost its original outlook that made everyone associate it with the Hindu religion. There have been many instances in history that have made this transition a reality.

The Sacred Bond Between Brother and Sister
Raksha Bandhan is a term from the Hindi language which means a relationship or an association based on protection. This is a festival which has a long standing Indian heritage. More commonly known as Rakhi, this Indian festival signifies the sacred bond of love between a brother and sister. On this day, sisters tie a Rakhi on their brothers wrists and expect Rakhi gifts in return.