Today, Raksha Bandhan is seen as a simple exchange: sisters tie a rakhi, brothers give gifts. But peel back the layers and you’ll find a complex, multi-era celebration rooted in myth, politics, and strategic alliances.
Let’s explore the forgotten origins of this timeless Indian festival.
Mythical Bonds: Raksha Bandhan in Hindu Epics
Krishna and Draupadi
After Krishna injured his finger during battle, Draupadi tore a piece of her saree to bandage it. In return, Krishna vowed to protect her forever — a bond resembling Raksha Bandhan's promise of protection.
Yama and Yamuna
The god of death, Yama, is said to have granted his sister Yamuna immortality after she tied him a rakhi. Since then, it’s believed that a rakhi ensures long life and blessings.
Indra and Indrani
During a battle between gods and demons, Indrani tied a protective thread (raksha sutra) on Indra’s wrist for victory. This is perhaps one of the earliest symbolic uses of the rakhi.
Raksha Bandhan in Mughal Courts: More Than a Ritual
While many know the festival’s mythological side, few recall how Raksha Bandhan became a tool of diplomacy:
Rani Karnavati & Humayun
Facing an invasion by Bahadur Shah, Rani Karnavati of Mewar sent a rakhi to Mughal emperor Humayun, seeking protection. Though the help came too late, this act remains a symbol of Hindu-Muslim solidarity and the festival's emotional power.
Mughal-Hindu Alliances
Several Rajput queens are believed to have sent rakhis to Mughal rulers to maintain peace and alliance. This transformed Raksha Bandhan into a gesture of political respect and mutual trust, beyond gender or religion.
From Sacred Thread to Social Connector
Over centuries, Raksha Bandhan has evolved into a festival that:
Celebrates love and trust, not just between brothers and sisters but even friends, cousins, and neighbors
Encourages interfaith and intercaste unity, with many NGOs promoting rakhi exchanges among diverse communities
Inspires emotional storytelling in films, TV, and digital content across India
Modern Message, Ancient Roots
Today, Raksha Bandhan goes beyond the household:
Soldiers at the border receive rakhis from school children
Eco-friendly rakhis highlight environmental awareness
Digital rakhis are exchanged globally by families living apart
Yet behind these modern practices is an ancient pulse—a reminder of devotion, protection, and alliance, whether on a battlefield or in a family home.
Final Thought
Raksha Bandhan isn’t just about brother-sister bonds — it's about standing by someone when it matters most. From mythology’s divine siblings to history’s royal appeals, the festival has always echoed a deeper truth: Protection, when given freely, becomes sacred.
Published on : 2nd August
Published by : SMITA
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