Raksha Bandhan 2024: Date, Timing, Traditions, Shubh Muhurat, Puja Vidhi and Rituals Revealed!

Raksha Bandhan, a cherished Hindu festival, is observed annually on the full moon day of the Sawan month, also known as Shravan Purnima. This auspicious occasion is dedicated to celebrating the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. The term "Raksha Bandhan" translates to "the bond of protection," symbolising the promise of protection that brothers make to their sisters and the affectionate gesture of tying a rakhi, or sacred thread, on their wrists. The festival, also known regionally as Rakhi or Rakri, finds its origins in ancient traditions and texts, including the revered Mahabharata. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of Raksha Bandhan, including its significance, timing, and various traditions associated with it.

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Raksha Bandhan 2024: Date and Timing

This year, Raksha Bandhan will be observed on August 19, aligning with the auspicious Shravan Purnima and the Sawan Monday fast. This date is further marked by the rare conjunction of Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga and Ravi Yoga, enhancing its spiritual significance.

Raksha Bandhan Shubh Muhurat 2024:

The timing for the rakhi-tying ritual will commence at 1:30 PM and conclude at 9:08 PM. The most propitious period for performing Raksha Bandhan rituals will be from 1:43 PM to 4:20 PM in the afternoon. Additionally, the Pradosh Kal period, another auspicious time for the festival, will be observed from 6:56 PM to 9:08 PM.

Raksha Bandhan Bhadra Time 2024:

Bhadra End Time: 1:30 PM

Bhadra Tail: 9:51 AM to 10:53 AM

Bhadra Head: 10:53 AM to 12:37 PM

How Raksha Bandhan is Celebrated

On Raksha Bandhan, sisters ceremonially adorn their brothers’ wrists with rakhi while invoking blessings for their well-being and longevity. In reciprocation, brothers offer gifts or money to their sisters. If the sister is younger, she may touch her brother's feet to seek his blessings; if the brother is younger, he performs this gesture.

Raksha Bandhan Mantra:

During the rakhi-tying ritual, the following mantra is chanted:

"Om yen baddho bali raja danavendro mahabalah,

Ten tvamapi baddhami raksha ma chal ma chal."

Raksha Bandhan Puja Vidhi

Both siblings traditionally observe a fast before initiating the rakhi ritual. The sister prepares a rakhi thali, which includes the rakhi, roli, diya, kumkum, akshat, and sweets. The ritual begins with the offering of this thali to the deity. The brother then sits on a platform where the sister applies tilak on his forehead, sprinkles akshat, ties the rakhi on his right wrist, performs aarti, and offers him sweets. In return, the brother presents gifts to his sister.

Regional Names and Celebrations

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated under various names across different regions of India:

In Uttarakhand, it is known as Shravan Purnima.

In Rajasthan, it is referred to as Ramrakhi or Choorarakhi.

In Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Odisha, the festival is celebrated as Avani Avittam.

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Historical and Mythological Significance

Raksha Bandhan’s origins are deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and ancient legends:

The Legend of Indra and Shachi: During a celestial battle, the demon king defeated the gods. Indra, the king of gods, sought the aid of Guru Brihaspati. A protective ritual involving a mantra and a protective thread was conducted, which helped Indra reclaim his power and defeat the demons.

The Story of Krishna and Draupadi: In the Mahabharata, Draupadi tore a piece of her sari to bind Krishna’s bleeding finger, an act symbolizing protection. This event, occurring on Shravan Purnima, is commemorated through Raksha Bandhan.

The Story of Goddess Santoshi: Ganesh’s sons, Shubh and Laabh, desired a sister. Goddess Santoshi emerged from the divine light of Ganesh’s wives, Riddhi and Siddhi, and has since been celebrated as their sister.

The Tale of Alexander and King Porus: Alexander’s wife tied a protective thread around King Porus, who then vowed not to harm Alexander. Despite opportunities to do so, Porus honoured the rakhi’s promise, sparing Alexander.

The Significance of Tilak and Akshat

During Raksha Bandhan, the application of tilak and akshat (rice) on the brother’s forehead holds profound significance. In Hindu tradition, rice is considered sacred, and its combination with tilak is believed to foster positive energy and protection from negative influences.

- PTC PUNJABI