Rakshabandhan, often called Rakhi, is a popular Hindu festival celebrated primarily in India and other countries with Hindu communities. The term "Rakshabandhan" comes from two words: Raksha meaning protection, and Bandhan meaning bond. So, Rakshabandhan signifies the bond of protection between brothers and sisters.
During this festival, sisters tie a special decorative thread called Rakhi around the wrists of their brothers, symbolizing love, care, and protection. In return, brothers give gifts and promise to protect their sisters from harm and fulfill their duties towards them. While traditionally the celebration focuses on the relationship between brothers and sisters, it has also come to symbolize the broader themes of love, protection, and strong familial bonds.
Rakshabandhan is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravana (usually in August). The festival is not just limited to blood siblings; people also use it as an occasion to express care and affection toward close friends and others they consider part of their family.
