Significant Changes in the Traditions of Rakshabandhan

Nothing remains the same forever, change is essential with the onset time. It is said that the only thing constant in the world is “Change.” And like many other things, the festival of Rakshabandhan has undergone significant change and is also evolving still. Some of the major changes in the celebrations are:

1) Fancy Rakhis: The rakhi thread itself has undergone many changes in its looks and designs. Traditionally they were silk or cotton threads woven at home in simple styles. But nowadays a number of fancy or designer rakhis are readily available in the market. The Fancy Rakhi is a modern  take on age old traditions and they are usually studded with radiant stones and other embellishments

2) Inclusion of other family members in the rituals: Rakshabandhan is a celebration of the special relationship and unique bond between brothers and sisters. Traditionally it was only the sisters who used to tie the rakhi thread on their brothers. But now the brother’s family is also inducted into the ritual.  The sisters also tie rakhis on the wrists of their sisters in law or their brother’s wives. The inclusion of the sister in law in the festivities brings the women of the family closer like real sisters.

3) Lumba or Bhabhi Rakhis: The rakhi which one ties to the wife of a brother is also known as “bhabhi rakhi” from the Hindi word “Bhabhi” meaning sister in law. The Lumba is not tied on the wrist but tied to a bangle instead. The lumba also hangs down like a pendant. Lumbas are usually conical in shape with a loop tied to the vertex. The loop was to hook the lumba to the bangle. Nowadays the lumba too can be found in various shapes unlike the traditional conical ones. 4) Twin Set of Rakhis: There is also the latest trend in gifting a pair of rakhis for both the brother and his wife. The rakhis are otherwise known as bhaiya-bhabhi rakhis. The pair of rakhis is usually a rakhi and a lumba in similar patterns and designs.

5) Rakhi gifts for brother: After the sisters have tied the rakhis on the wrists of their brothers, it was also the custom for the brothers to present their sisters with return gifts for rakhi. The gifts were symbolic of the acceptance of their relationship and they were traditionally monetary. But these days, the return gifts for rakhi have taken on many forms such as jewelry, apparels, chocolates and others. And it is not only the brothers who present the gifts but sisters too present rakhi gifts for their brothers now. But even though there has been development and changes in the traditions, the overall essence and spirit of Rakshabandhan still remains the same as before.