Raksha Bandhan is a special festival celebrated all over India. It’s a day when sisters tie a rakhi (a sacred thread) on their brothers' wrists. This act represents a sister’s heartfelt prayers for her brother’s happiness and his promise to always protect her. It’s a beautiful celebration of the bond between siblings, filled with love, trust, and joy.
Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on 19th August this year. Mark this date on your calendar, as it’s a day of love and festivity. Not only is the date special, but the timing to tie the rakhi is also significant. Choosing the right time, known as the "shubh muhurat," is believed to bring good luck and strengthen the bond even more.
The Importance of Shubh Muhurat
In 2024, there’s a special combination of astrological events that make Raksha Bandhan even more auspicious. These include the Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga, Ravi Yoga, Shobhan Yoga, and Shravana Nakshatra. These yogas are considered very favorable, and tying rakhi during this time is believed to bring sweetness and harmony to relationships.
However, there’s also a period called "Bhadra kaal" on Raksha Bandhan this year. Bhadra kaal is considered inauspicious for performing rituals, including tying rakhi. So, it’s important to avoid this time to ensure the ceremony brings only good fortune.
Bhadra Kaal Timing
On August 19, 2024, Bhadra kaal will start early in the morning at 5:53 AM and will end at 1:32 PM. During this period, it’s best to wait before tying the rakhi to avoid any bad luck.
Best Time to Tie Rakhi
According to the Hindu calendar, the most auspicious time to tie rakhi on Raksha Bandhan 2024 is from 1:30 PM to 9:07 PM. This gives a good amount of time in the afternoon and evening to celebrate the festival with your loved ones. During this period, you can perform the rakhi ceremony and enjoy the day without any worries.
How to Tie Rakhi Properly
Tying rakhi is not just about putting a thread on your brother’s wrist. There’s a proper method to follow, which adds to the ceremony's significance. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
- Prepare the Rakhi Thali: Before starting, prepare a thali (a plate) with all the items needed for the ceremony. This includes the rakhi, roli (red powder), akshat (rice grains), a diya (lamp), sweets, and some money or gifts for your brother.
- Apply Tilak: Start by applying a tilak (a mark) on your brother’s forehead using roli. Then, place a few grains of akshat on the tilak.
- Tie the Rakhi: Take the rakhi and tie it on your brother’s right wrist. While tying the rakhi, recite the following mantra: "Yena baddho Bali Raja, Danavendro Mahabalah; Tena twam anubadhnaami, Raksha maachala maachala"_ This means, "I am tying you with the same thread that tied the great king Bali, the powerful demon king. Let this thread protect you and bring you strength."
- Feed Sweets: After tying the rakhi, feed your brother some sweets. This symbolizes the sweet and loving bond between you.
- Aarti: Perform a small aarti by moving the diya in a circular motion in front of your brother. This is a gesture of blessings and good wishes.
- Gifts and Blessings: Lastly, give your brother a gift, and in return, he will give you a promise of protection. Brothers often give gifts or money to their sisters as a token of their love and appreciation.
A Special Occasion After 90 Years
This year, Raksha Bandhan 2024 is extra special because it falls under a rare astrological combination that happens only once in 90 years. This makes the festival even more auspicious and is believed to bring great fortune to all who celebrate it.
Celebrate with Love and Joy
Raksha Bandhan is a time to celebrate the unique bond between brothers and sisters. It’s a day filled with rituals, gifts, and sweet memories. Whether you are celebrating with your family at home or connecting with your sibling virtually, the spirit of the festival remains the same.
So, on August 19, 2024, gather your family, follow the proper rituals, and enjoy this beautiful festival. Remember to tie the rakhi during the shubh muhurat for a prosperous and joyful Raksha Bandhan.