Celebrating Sibling Bond: Raksha Bandhan 2023
Raksha Bandhan, a cherished Hindu festival, is dedicated to commemorating the profound bond between brothers and sisters. This joyous occasion serves as a tribute to the love and safeguarding that siblings provide for one another. Falling within the auspicious month of Sawan, as per the Hindu Lunar calendar, the festival takes center stage.
On this day, sisters symbolize their devotion by tying a sacred thread, known as Rakhi, around their brothers’ wrists, invoking blessings for their well-being. In return, brothers pledge to stand as protectors, ensuring their sisters’ safety throughout their journey of life.
Rakhi Celebrations Spanning Two Days
This year, Raksha Bandhan will grace two days due to the influence of Bhadra Kaal, allowing for Rakhi ceremonies on both August 30 and August 31. The propitious time to tie the Rakhi ribbon commences after 9:01 pm on August 30. For those unable to observe the ceremony at night, an alternate window opens on August 31, available until 7:05 am.
Insights from Renowned Astrologer Pandit Kalki Ram
“In the realm of Sanatan Dharam, distinct sides have been attributed to both genders, believed to usher prosperity and good health,”
Renowned astrologer Pandit Kalki Ram from Ayodhya has shed light on vital details, ranging from which hand to tie the Rakhi to the ideal seating arrangement for the brother-sister ceremony at night. Pandit Kalki Ram expounded that in the realm of Sanatan Dharam, distinct sides have been attributed to both genders, believed to usher prosperity and good health. For men, the right side of their body holds sacred significance. Consequently, sisters are encouraged to tie the Rakhi thread on their brothers’ right wrists, symbolizing the wellspring of strength and power.
Pandit Kalki Ram shared insights from Vasu Shastra, suggesting that while binding the Rakhi, sisters should be oriented towards the west, with the brother’s face turned eastward or northward. This directional alignment holds during daylight hours until the evening. However, for evening Rakhi ceremonies, the brother’s face should be oriented westward, exclusively during nighttime.
Mythological Significance
It’s noteworthy that Indian mythology and history encompass numerous poignant tales portraying the profound relationship between siblings. One such narrative harks back to the origin of the epic Mahabharata. When Lord Krishna sustained a wound on his finger while vanquishing the malevolent King Shishupal, Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, swiftly wrapped the injured finger with a piece of cloth. Grateful for her gesture, Lord Krishna vowed to stand as her protector.