Happy Raskha Bandhan Behen

ME & COUSIN SUSAN

ADITI AND I

Just wanted to send out a quick post it is Raksha Bandhan! Here is a description of the holiday by my personal friend Aditi:

What is Raksha Bandhan? Translated to Hindi, Raksha Bandhan means bond of protection. The festival is celebrated during Shravan Purnima (full moon month), which generally falls in August, and like most Hindu festivals, it is celebrated with color and pomp. Sisters tie a silk thread known as Rakhi around the brother’s wrist and pray for his wellbeing, and the brother in return promises to protect her from harm. 

Although there are many legends that surround this festival, the most authenticated one is found in the Bavishya Purana. Here, in a war between the Gods and demons, Lord Indra, (ruler of the celestial world) was on the verge of decimation. Indra implored Guru Brihaspati to suggest a solution to the problem. Guru Brihaspati advised the ruler of skies to tie a sacred thread called Raksha around his wrist. His Queen Indrani tied this thread, and to this day, Rakhi represents protection and goodwill. 

Raksha Bandhan has also appeared in the great Epoch Mahabharata. During dvapara Yuga, while slaying his cousin and implacable enemy Shishupal, Lord Krishna’s index finger was cut. Dropadi, wife of the Pandavas tore a piece of her sari and tied it over the wound. In return, Krishna promised to protect her from harm. Lord Krishna made good on this vow when the Kauravas attempted to disrobe her. The cloth of the sari continued to unravel, only to reveal more cloth from the sari. References to Rakhi are sprinkled throughout Hindu scriptures, hence affirming its import as not only a religious festival, but an integral part of Hindu history 

While Raksha Bandhan is primarily associated with the sacred relation between a brother and sister, in the past, Rakhi was tied by daughters and wives as well. Rishis tied the thread to people seeking protection, and sages tied it onto themselves for protection. Today, the festival has evolved to include tying Rakhi to social activists, politicians, and military personnel. 

As technology and globalization rapaciously claim our time, it is important to reflect on, remember, and celebrate a day that not only affirms sibling bonds, but also focuses on people who play a positive role in our lives.

Written By HSAI Member Aditi Sharma

I'd like to give a Raskha Bandn bracelet to my sister Adity who did the research for the above article and to my cousin Susan, who is my third cousin whom I found through doing my genetic genealogy.  I love you both.

Vincent
Vishnu VedVyasa