Rakshan Bandhan celebrated today

Rakshan Bandhan celebrated today

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangalore, Aug 13, 2011: Mangalore, August 13: Raksha Bandhan, the day on which sisters tie rakis on the wrists of their brothers in exchange for a promise of protection, will be celebrated today.

 

However, the original significance of the raki, a decorative thread, has changed with times. Although, it was initially meant to foster the bond between brothers and sisters, rakis are today tied to the wrists of class mates, neighbors, and colleagues to ensure peaceful co-existence.

 

 

 

 

Rakis are associated with a number of legends. When Krishna was bruised, Draupadi tied a piece of her sari around his wrist to stop the blood from flowing. Deeply moved, Krishna swore that he would protect her from all harm.

The Raksha Bandhan day festivities start at day break when families wake up daily, take head bath, and worship the deities. Sisters then perform the aarathis for their brothers, apply a tilaka on their foreheads, sprinkle some rice on their heads, and then tie rakis to the accompaniment of mantras. Brothers then accept the sweets offered by their sisters and promise to protect them. They also offer sweets and gifts to their sisters.

A few days before the festival, markets are flooded with rakis and girls shop for colorful rakis. The shops are also flooded with sweets, clothes, and gifts.