Sisters and brothers share a unique bond and this is reflected in the traditional Indian festival of Raksha Bandhan. On the day of Rakshabandhan which is also commonly known as Rakhi, sisters tie a ritual thread on the wrists of her brother binding him into an eternal relationship. The brother acknowledges this with a vow to protect her and presents her with Rakhi return gifts.
The bonds between a sister and brother are so strong that it is impossible for them to remain separate for long. Even after marriage they remain the best of friends and well wishers for a lifetime. Brothers and sisters are a precious gift for one another and often they take the role of protector and taking care of their other sibling. Since they grew up in close proximity of one another they almost seem to have a telepathic connection and are often the mirror image of one another in their likes and dislikes. These similarities and closeness prompt them to share a unique relationship and love that is not equaled by any other else. And Rakshabandhan, an Indian traditional Indian festival is a celebration in honor of this unique bond of love.
The festival is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu calendar month of Shravana which is usually in August. People all over the nation celebrate the festival with lots of joy and enthusiasm. On the occasion of Rakshabandhan, sisters and brothers reach out to one other to celebrate the festival together and with other family members. Familial ties play a major role in this festival and the day is marked by family reunions, social gatherings and feastings
On the day of Raksha Bandhan, the sister ties a rakhi on the wrists of the brothers after a small formal ceremony. The brother then takes a pledge to protect and safeguard her at all times and also presents her with gifts in return. Traditionally the festival is mainly a celebration for real brothers and sister, but over the years it has acquired a much broader outlook. Nowadays Rakhis are tied to anybody whom one considers as brothers and they may be biologically unrelated people such as friends and neighbors. In the Indian tradition it is maintained that the ties of the rakhi is so powerful and whosoever is bound by a rakhi naturally assumes the role of a real brother and it becomes his solemn duty to protect her from all harm and evil.
Even though Rakshabandhan is originally a Hindu festival, the occasion is largely secular these days. People from all religion whether they are Sikhs, Christians, Jains or Muslims participate in the festival and they exchange Rakhis and gifts. Indians all over the world too celebrate this occasion and the rise of online Rakhi shopping has proved to be so beneficial in providing an authentic feel to the celebrations elsewhere. With a plethora of gift ideas for raksha bandhan out there ranging from ethnic thalis to traditional sweets and exquisite rakhis in all formats, rakhi gifts and celebrations are the same everywhere.
Indian festivals – Our Celebration, Our Sweets
India is a land that is very famous for its colorful hordes of festivals spread all over the year. From Baisakhi to Christmas, there are many festivals in 12 months and each one of them is celebrated with same high voltage excitement. The Christmas cake and the Diwali sweets are made with the same love and affection and that’s because we as a country stand united in diversity.
Bonsai Cultivation and Indoor Gardening
Plants are a primary necessity for life on the planet. They perform an integral role in maintaining the right environment for life to survive and flourish. Planting more trees has become a necessity for the world today and people usually do indoor gardening. And Bonsai cultivating is one of the most popular form of Indoor gardening.
Bringing the Air of Festivity with Bhaidooj
Commemorating one of the most promising bonds that exist between siblings, the festival of bhaidooj is just around the corner. Preparations for Bhaidooj starts well in advance and people are already out on shopping, looking for beautiful gifts for their brother. Celebrate the festival with great pomp and show.
