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There has been considerable speculation about the origin of this festival. Some believe that it was instituted to remind the Kshatriyas about their dharma towards the priestly class. On this occasion the priest tied a wristlet on the right hand of his yajman (host), received dakshina (gifts) in return and recited the following verse:
"Yena baddho Bali raja
danavendro mahabalah,
Tena tvamabhibadhnami,
raksha ma chala ma chala"
(With which was tied King Bali, the Lord of Giants, of great strength, with the same I tie you: be protected: Do not go, do not go).
The word rakhi is derived from the sanskrit word rakshika (an amulet or charm worn as a preserver). Words such as raksha, rakshti and rakshit, which mean "to protect, guard or take care of"often appear in Kalidasa’s works such as Hitopadesha, and allied literature. Literally, raksha bandhan means the bond of protection.
The Shravana or the monsoon month carries all hues and shades of nature and emotions. Religiously speaking Shravan is a pious month and full moon of this all-important month is considered to be a very holy day. It is celebrated in different ways for different reasons almost throughout the country.
For the siblings it is the eternal tie of love, for Brahmins the day to take the pledge of Brahmanik rites and for those who depend sea and monsoon, it is the beginning of the new season.
Indian festivals are based on the weather changes and their significance in the lives of people but they do have a story to support the celebrations. The rich Indian Mythology provides a religious reason to celebrate the day in a specific way. Many epics are related to the day and the origin of Raksha Bandhan. The festival finds a mention in most of the epics and its origin can be traced back to the mythological
Puranik times.
Read about the Myths and Legends attached to
Rakhi
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