Raksha Bandhan, a cherished Hindu festival celebrating the eternal bond between brothers and sisters, will be observed this year on Saturday, August 9, 2025. Celebrated annually on the full moon day of the Shravan month, this festival holds immense emotional and cultural significance for millions across India and among Indian communities worldwide.
The festival, deeply rooted in Indian tradition, sees sisters tying a sacred thread Rakhi around their brothers’ wrists, symbolising love, trust, and a vow of protection. In return, brothers pledge to safeguard their sisters and often present them with gifts or tokens of appreciation, reinforcing the emotional fabric that binds siblings together. The day is also marked by families coming together, sharing festive meals, and cherishing memories of childhood.
This year, however, there is some confusion regarding the timing of Raksha Bandhan, as Shravan Purnima falls over two consecutive days. According to Hindu scriptures, the auspicious act of tying Rakhi should be avoided during Bhadra, a period considered inauspicious for such rituals.
When is Rakhi?
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Date: Saturday, 9 August 2025
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Purnima Tithi Begins: 8 August 2025 at 2:12 PM
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Purnima Tithi Ends: 9 August 2025 at 1:24 PM
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Shubh Muhurat for Tying Rakhi: 9 August 2025, from 5:47 AM to 1:24 PM
Religious texts like Vratraj strongly advise that Rakhi ceremonies should not be performed during Bhadra timings. Following these guidelines, the most auspicious time to tie Rakhi this year falls in the morning and early afternoon of August 9.
Significance of Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan is more than a festival, it is a symbol of protection, selfless love, and the sacred connection between siblings. Mythological references further enrich its legacy. One popular story links the festival to Goddess Lakshmi, who tied a Rakhi to King Bali, thereby accepting him as her brother. Another tale recounts Lord Krishna tying a Rakhi to Draupadi and promising to protect her at all costs, a vow he later fulfilled.
The festival stands as a reminder of timeless values: familial love, emotional security, and the importance of nurturing relationships. In today's fast-paced world, Raksha Bandhan continues to bring families together, reinforcing bonds that transcend rituals and lie at the heart of Indian culture.
