Raksha Bandhan is a Hindu festival which falls in the month of Shravan every year. This festival stands for the bond of love between brother and sister. On this day sister ties traditional and auspicious thread decorated with beads called Rakhi on brother's hand as good omen. And brother promises to protect his sister from every evil and brings gifts for her on this day. Narali Poornima also falls on this day. Read on to know more.

Raksha Bandhan is a festival in which sisters tie Rakhi on the wrist of their brothers with love and affection. This is a sacred thread that indicates that sisters pray and wish that their brothers are protected from all problems and brothers take the oath of protecting their sisters from any trouble in life. This is a festival of love and trust and is celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Sravana, which falls in July or August.

Tradition and Rituals

Traditionally this festival is meant to make the bond of love, affection and trust between brothers and sisters stronger. Sisters pray for long and healthy life of their brothers on this day and though Rakhi is just a thread tied on the wrist of the brother, it is considered stronger than even iron chains. Brothers give gifts to their sisters and promise to take care of them throughout their life. This tradition is being carried out in India since time immemorial.

The tradition and name varies from state to state but the meaning and significance remain the same. There are various stories attached to this festival and this is a great time when family members come together. Today, in this hectic schedule if brothers take out some time and visit their sisters for this special day, it will be a great feeling and gift for sisters. Just meeting each other would bring them together and fill out the gap that usually comes with age and responsibilities.

It is not that only real brothers and sisters or cousins tie the Rakhi, people invite their neighbours and other relatives too on this occasion. There are social and cultural programs organized on this day and both men and women celebrate this day with same vigour and enthusiasm. It works great in social bonding and is also considered as a friendly knot.

Gift Ideas for Raksha Bandhan

Gift on Raksha Bandhan definitely fills the sister with joy and she is overwhelmed with the affection and care that she receives through the gift. There are various gift ideas.

Chocolates, Sweets and Cakes

These are all time favourites of girls and young women and if you are confused what to buy on this day, this is the best gift idea.

Soft Toys

Since girls love soft toys no matter what their age is, brothers prefer gifting them these toys on this occasion.

Household Goods

If your sister is married and you are going to visit her on Rakhi, it would be the best idea to buy her some household utility item that she must be planning to buy for long.

Decorative Pieces

Various decorative items are available in the market. You can buy the one that fits in your budget and taste.

Fashion Jewellery

If you have the knowledge and you know what exactly your sister will like, you can buy her the fashion jewellery she wanted to have.

Cash

This is an age-old tradition. The main reason behind this is that men were not considered as shoppers and so they preferred giving cash to their sisters so that they buy something of their choice or need.

The gift ideas can be unlimited. The main thing is that as you are a brother, you know the likes and needs of your sister. If you buy her something that she wanted to have for a long time or what she needs at the moment, that will be the best gift for her. Your love, affection and care will be shown through that gift automatically.

Which gifts have you received so far on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan? What is Narali Poornima? Which sweets can be specially prepared on the occasion of Rakshi Bandhan? To share your views and experiences, click here.