- By Kashish Rai
- Sun, 18 Aug 2024 06:34 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Raksha Bandhan 2024: Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan commemorates the indomitable bond between siblings. On this momentous occasion, sisters ceremonially encircle their brothers' wrists with a sacred Rakhi thread, signifying an unwavering commitment to protection and loyalty. In reciprocation, brothers pledge to ensure their sisters' well-being and fortune. This venerable tradition encapsulates the values of affection, trust, and mutual esteem. The Rakhi thread serves as a potent emblem of sibling devotion, surpassing material ties. This year, Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on 19th August 2024.
When tying the sacred Rakhi thread, siblings must observe specific guidelines and traditions to ensure the ritual's sanctity and significance, fostering a deeper bond between brothers and sisters.
Raksha Bandhan 2024: 7 Rules To Follow While Tying Rakhi
1. Bath Before The Raksha Bandhan Puja Ceremony
In Hindu culture, bathing is a daily norm, but its significance intensifies during festivals. A clean body is deemed essential for participating in auspicious rituals and activities. It is vital to bathe prior to commencing such events and seek divine blessings, as well as those of elder siblings, thereby ensuring spiritual purity and respect for tradition.
2. Fasting Until Rakhi Puja
On Raksha Bandhan, sisters traditionally observe a fast to seek divine blessings for their brothers' prosperity, wealth, and happiness. This fast is typically maintained until the Rakhi puja is completed, after which they can break their fast. Observing this fast until the conclusion of the puja ceremony is considered essential for ensuring their brothers' well-being and happiness.
3. Sitting Direction While Tying Rakhi
When conducting the Rakhi puja, seating orientation is crucial to harness positive energies. Brothers should sit facing north or east, while sisters should face the opposite direction, southwest or west. It is vital to avoid sitting with a south-facing orientation during the Rakhi tying ceremony, as this is considered inauspicious.
4. Cover Your Head
During the Rakhi tying and puja ceremony, it is customary for both brothers and sisters to show respect by covering their heads. Brothers can use a handkerchief or a cloth, whereas sisters can use a dupatta to cover their heads, demonstrating reverence and tradition modestly.
Rakhi represents the unbreakable bond between siblings, symbolised by a sacred thread ceremony, embodying affection, trust, and mutual respect. (Image Source: Freepik)
5. Prepare Rakhi Thali
A Rakhi thali is an essential component of the Raksha Bandhan celebration, and the ritual is incomplete without it. Sisters should thoughtfully adorn the thali with all the requisite puja items, including kumkum, the sacred Rakhi thread, a diyas or lamp, sweets, a coconut, rice grains, and roli or vermillion powder. These items are indispensable for the successful and meaningful completion of this sacred ceremony.
6. Avoid Tying Rakhi During Bhadra Kaal
To maximise the spiritual benefits of Rakhi puja, it is essential to conduct the ceremony at an auspicious time. As with other Hindu rituals, it is advisable to avoid tying Rakhi during Bhadra and Rahu Kala, periods deemed inauspicious by the Hindu calendar. To ensure a meaningful and beneficial celebration, brothers and sisters should remain informed about the optimal timing for Rakhi puja, thereby optimising its positive impact.
7. Do Not Tie Rakhi Having Inauspicious Signs
When selecting a Rakhi for the puja ceremony, it is crucial to choose one that bears auspicious symbols or signs, such as the Swastik, Kalash, or Om. Avoid Rakhi threads featuring inauspicious markings. Moreover, ensure that any Swastik symbols are correctly oriented, as incorrectly aligned versions are deemed inauspicious. By opting for a Rakhi with beneficial symbols, you can enhance the spiritual significance of the ritual.
(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert in the relevant field.)