As I and my brother literally sit oceans and time zones apart, technology helps us in remaining connected almost every day as we chat and share glimpses of our lives. This in no way compares to the bonhomie and playful times shared during our childhood. There used to be fights over the most trivial issues, giggling and sharing funny banter throughout the day, reading comics together and even putting up a united front when need be; protecting each other and covering up the other’s mistakes when confronted by parents.
Although we have come a long way from those sweet childhood antics, the bond has remained as deep and trustworthy as ever. We grew up to pursue careers and chase relationships in different parts of the world but our love stayed as thick as the bond of brothers and sisters tend to be.
Recently, I went to a kid’s first Rakshabandhan and it made my eyes moist as I remembered each Rakshabandhan celebrated with my brother vividly. I instantly travelled back in time to reminisce the love loaded Rakhi celebrations we had at our home. I used to start preparing for this beautiful festival a month in advance. There was so much to do – shopping for the Rakhi, outfits for the both of us, candies to be bought. And finally, excitedly waiting for the gift that my brother would give me and the festive lunch that mother would prepare.
As we grew up and took more responsibilities, I started understanding the deeper significance of this lovely festival of bonding, care and affection. I realised that the festival puts a light on the sibling bond as one of the most cherished relationships of people’s lives.
Traditionally it has been believed that brothers play a protective role towards their sisters. Whether they are around or away, brothers remain concerned about their wellbeing. But it’s the other way around as well. Sisters shower on their brothers love and care with an almost motherly affection. The beautiful bond of a sister and brother is crucial to the whole family too. It is fundamental to the society at large.
Rakshabandhan has huge significance as the sibling bond is one of the most cherished relationships of human lives.
Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on the full moon day in the month of Shravana according to the Hindu calendar. It typically falls in the month of August.
On Rakshabandhan, sisters tie a thread which is known as Rakhi on their brothers’ wrists, smear their forehead with pious ‘tika’ and pray for their long, healthy and prosperous life. The brothers give a gift or a token of love to their loving sisters.
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