Sacred Threads & Raksha Bandan (Ceremony & Ritual)

Raksha Bandan literally means "tying to protect" within a bond.  As with many things of Indian Culture, the roots will be found in Hinduism with various stories originating with the Gods/Goddesses and then following on to Queens and general public.

In essence most families celebrate this ceremony in the month of Shravan (August) full moon where a sister will tie the sacred thread (Rakhi) on her brother and perform the beautiful ritual.

Many a time when in families their has been a rift between brother and sister, it has once more strengthened the bond and brought them together putting aside differences and forgiving.  A wonderful opportunity of healing.

The ceremony is carried out with a Thali of sacred items including a tea light candle, or Indian style wick, with sweets and sacred red powder for the third eye, (soul /spiritual awareness and consciousness awakening)

A blessing is given to the brother for protection in his life always by the Gods and as a kind gesture the brother is he wants to often honors this ceremony by giving the sister a gift.  If a brother does not have a sister, in Indian families a cousin is considered a sister and therefore the cousin can do this.

Moving into modern times

These days you will find that although the brother is first and foremost, the tying of the Rakhi has extended further to other relationships, nephews, uncles, sons and even sisters, or friends. I have often tied this sacred thread on men I have got to know who don't have a sister, or whom I've invited to enter into a brother / sister bondage.

As we continue to evolve and expand, it is now quite common, that the Raksha Bandan can be done on anyone  as a sacred ceremony, as long as it is done as a ceremonial ritual it will manifest the intention.

Happy Raksha Bandan  - 18 August 2016

I will add more pictures to this post later.