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.