Raksha Bandhan 2024: Date, Muhurat, Rituals and Significance

Raksha Bandhan 2024: Celebrating the sacred bond of protection and love with Raksha Bandhan.

Raksha Bandhan is a beloved festival that honors the special bond between brothers and sisters. It is traditionally celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) in the Hindu month of Shravana. This year, the Raksha Bandhan festival will be celebrated on Monday, August 19, 2024.

Raksha Bandhan 2024 Date and Muhurat

Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on Monday, August 19, 2024. The Raksha Bandhan thread ceremony can be observed from 06:27 AM to 02:25 PM, offering a duration of 7 hours and 58 minutes. The Purnima Tithi begins at 05:34 PM on August 18, 2024, and ends at 02:25 PM on August 19, 2024.

The most favorable time to perform the Raksha Bandhan rituals is during the Aparahna, which is the late afternoon according to Hindu tradition. If this time is not feasible, the Pradosh period, which occurs in the early evening, is the next best option. It is crucial to avoid performing the rituals during Bhadra, as this period is considered inauspicious for any ceremonial activities.

Raksha Bandhan Rituals

Preparation of Pooja Thali: Start by preparing a pooja thali with essential items such as a diya (oil lamp), roli (vermilion powder), rice grains, sweets, and the rakhi.

Aarti Ceremony: The sister begins the ritual by performing an Aarti, where she waves the diya in front of her brother in a circular motion.

Tilak Application: A tilak of roli is then applied to the brother's forehead, symbolizing good fortune.
Tying the Rakhi: The sister ties the rakhi around her brother’s wrist, offering prayers for his prosperity and well-being.

Exchange of Gifts: In return, the brother presents his sister with gifts, symbolizing his love and commitment to protect her.

Celebration and Bonding: The ritual fosters a sacred atmosphere, deepening the sibling bond and celebrating the essence of Raksha Bandhan as a festival of love and protection.

Significance of Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan represents the protective bond between siblings. The act of tying a Rakhi around the brother’s wrist is a gesture of love and protection from the sister, and in return, the brother vows to protect her. Often, brothers express their love by giving gifts or money to their sisters. This festival reinforces familial bonds and celebrates the spirit of unity and commitment.