The festival of Raksha Bandhan also called Rakhi is a celebration of the relationship between brothers and sisters. Raksha means to protect and Bandhan means bondage. The festival is like an oath for brothers to protect their sisters and keep them away from all problems. Apart from sibling relationships this festival can also be celebrated by those who care to respect, protect and know the true meaning of a relationship.
The history of the festival is very old and ancient and evident in the Hindu scriptures and rituals. Over the period of time the meaning and essence of the festival has been acquired and adopted by multicultural lives in India.
According to Mahabharata, Lord Krishna had promised his aunt, Sisupala’s mother, that he will ignore 100 mistakes of Sisupala. Sisupala was the king of Chedi Kingdom and was a brutal King. He has no respect for life. He insulted and abused Shri Krishna in front of the court. This was his last chance and he crossed the limit of 100 mistakes. Shri Krishna punished him and killed him with his weapon Sudarshan Chakra. While throwing the weapon at Sisupala, Shri Krishna got his finger cut in the course. Draupadi standing there immediately tears a piece of her saree and tires on the wound. Krishna thanked Draupadi and said, ” Sister, you helped me in need and so will I help you in trouble.” This incident has led to the rituals of Raksha Bandhan.
The day is celebrated to honour the relationship between brothers and sisters. Raksha Bandhan is one of the oldest festivals celebrated across India.
On the full moon day (Purnima) and mostly in the month of August Raksha Bandhan is celebrated across the land of India. It is also called as Rakhi Poonam, Janeu Purnima, Jhulan Purnima, Narali Purnima and festival of the Shravan maas.
Although the name and rituals of the festival differ in various parts of India, the main aspect is the tiring of the sacred thread called Rakhi. This thread is colourful and comes in various designs. The Rakhi thread is always chosen by the sister because she is tying it on the brother’s hand which shows her love for him. Sisters usually tie the thread around their brother’s wrist, do the tilak on his forehead, feed sweets and pray for his health and wellbeing. In return the brothers pledge to protect their sisters and offers her a gift as a token of respect and love. Sisters also mail the sacred thread to their brothers; in case the latter are not able to meet them personally.
Siblings’ day is another day where sibling love is being honoured. Claudia A Evart, freelancer paralegal born in Manhattan, New York lost her siblings in a car accident at an early age. Out of the love for siblings and their loss inspired Claudia to lay the foundation for the Siblings Day celebrated every year on April 10th. April 10th is the birthday of Claudia’s late sister Lissette.
The mission of Siblings Day is to help all brothers and sisters to reconnect, honour, love and respect their relationship.
On Siblings Day, brothers and sisters share greeting cards, eat together and spend time in each other’s company.
ENGLISH SONGS ON SIBLINGS
1.Brothers and Sisters – Andrew Cousins
2. Sister to A Brother- Rob Finlay
3. Baby Sister – Dustin Herring
4. The Sibling Song – Steven Samuel
5. Brother – Kodaline
6. Dear Brother- Tate Mcray
7. Hey Brother – Avicci
HINDI RAKSHA BANDHAN SPECIAL SONGS
1.Bandha Hua Ek Ek Dhago – Rakhi
2.Rakhi ke Bandhan Ko- Choto Behen
3.Rakhi Bandhwa Le – Anpadh
4.Mere Bhaiya – Kajal
5.Hum Beheno Ke – Anjana
6. Ye Rakhi Bandhan – Beimaan
7. Behna Yaad Kare – Chambal Ki Kasam
8. Bhai Ki Kalai Pe – Resham Ki Dor
9. Nahi Dekh Sakta Tujhe Rote Hue – Majboor
10. Meri Pyari Behenaiya – Saccha Jhootha
11. Phoolon Ka Taro Ka – Hare Krishna Hare Rama
12. O Meri Laadli – Aatish
13. Bhai Haste to Hasti Hai – Pyar Ka Devta
14. Rakhi Ki Laaj – Ghar Dwaar
15. Meri Behna – Andha Kanoon
16.Mera To Bhagwan Bhi Tu – Watan Ke Rakhwale
17. O Meri Behna – Pyari Behna
18. Bhai Behen Ka Pyar – Farishtey
19. Behna O Behna – Aaj Ka Arjun
20. Ise Samjho Na Resham Ka Taar – Tiranga
21. Mamta Bhare Din – Kroadh
The relationship between brother and sister is very special and it must respect and nurture to create a good civilized society. Do share your experiences with your siblings.
