Rakhi Gifting – Meaning Over the Years

Not so long ago, Rakhi meant bonding over long standing rituals and traditions. It also represented the everlasting love and respect which was the basis of relationships in India. Somewhere along the way though, the Rakhi tying ceremony was followed by giving of return gifts in the form of money or other gifts desired by the sister and brother (if younger).

In the recent times, Rakhii means showing how much you love, care and remember your brother and sister by sending Rakhi gifts from one part of the world to the other. This change is the by product of increasing distances among families and the world becoming smaller with the advent of technological and logistical advances.

Gift Shopping Trends on Raksha Bandhan

The 'what' has become more important in terms of Rakhi shopping rather than the gesture itself. This is not to say that the feelings behind gifting have become irrelevant. There are those among us who still believe in the thoughtful quality of any Rakhi gift idea.

On the one hand, the gift value has gained importance and on the other the choice of gifts has also undergone a lot of change. There has been a sea change when you want to send Rakhi gifts to your loved ones. The first major difference in the past and present is the wide range of presents, the other is the medium of exchanging gifts on Raksha Bandhan. Online Rakhi gifts shopping is the example of this newest trend.

Another major development in terms of Rakhi gifting and that is the customisation of Rakhi and Rakhi gifts. There are ideas on Rakhi gifts for sisters, Rakhi gifts for brothers, for bhabhi and so on.

Recent Trends in Rakhi Styles

The simple Rakhi thread, which we also know as dora, dhaga, mouli or kalwa has undergone a lot of change in the recent years. It has gained in terms of style quotient and beauty of designs. This is also the reason that the craftsmanship involved in making a Rakhi has become very important in today's times. Not only that, the quality of the thread and the material used get a premium during Rakhi shopping.

The style and design of this sacred thread of love has changed a lot in the past decade or so. Today's Rakhi is sometimes so rich in its appearance that it even works as Rakhi gifts. Bracelet Rakhi, Silver Rakhi, Musical Rakhi, Currency Rakhi, Gold Rakhi, Silver Rakhi, Charm Rakhi, Diamond Rakhi etc. showcase the popular new trends in Rakhi.

Invaluable Pointers For Choosing Rakhi Gifts

Selecting gifts for someone you love and care for is not always an easy task. Here are 5 tips that will make this process slightly easier.

Before arranging for the gift, try to think from the recipients end. What will he/she love and also what value does your gift hold for them?

Be creative and innovative and do not repeat previous year's Rakhi gift idea even if it was a huge success.

The gift should conform to the personality type of your sibling. A mismatched gift idea would spoil the feel of the occasion.

A surprise is almost a sure shot way of pleasing your loved ones. But, if you are not so sure about the kind of Rakhi gift that will work, it is better to consult your sibling than go wrong with the present.

Avoid going in for common ideas when it comes to gifting. It is advisable to go in for personalised gifts or Rakhi gifts that are a true representation of the recipient.

Rakhi Rituals and Traditions

The festivities begin early morning on the day of Raksha Bandhan. The day begins with everyone taking a bath and wearing new clothes. After taking God's blessings, sisters in the family perform arti of and for their brothers, then they put tika and chawal on their forehead and tie Rakhi on their wrist. At the end of it all, they offer sweets to their brothers.

These Rakhi rituals are symbolic of the wishes that sisters ask of god for their brother's well being. In return, brothers pamper their sisters with beautiful Rakhi gifts as a token of their love. They also promise to take care of their sister and stand by her side in any and every situation.

Rakhi is also the time for family reunions. All these rituals become the reason for the family bonding over an auspicious occasion. After these important rituals are over, all family members enjoy over food, sweets, gifts music and dance. Raksha Bandhan is also the day to remember all those who are living far away from the family. On Rakhi, feelings can also be expressed through e-mails, e-cards, Rakhi greeting cards and by sending Rakhi through various means (online Rakhi, Rakhi through post).