Raksha Bandhan 2023: 7 tales about origin of the festival

Ahead of August 30, the anticipation for Raksha Bandhan, a festival that celebrates the cherished bond between brothers and sisters, is palpable. On this joyous occasion, siblings will exchange threads of affection, promising protection and love. But behind the threads and merriment lie intriguing myths that have stood the test of time.

3 things you need to know

• Raksha Bandhan celebrates sibling love with historical myths and rituals playing a significant role in its inception.
• Tying rakhis symbolises protection, unity and enduring sibling bonds.
• From Krishna-Draupadi to Tagore's unity, diverse stories enrich celebrations.

Draupadi and Krishna: A sacred promise

Among the revered legends, the story of Lord Krishna and Draupadi from Indian mythology takes center stage. On Makar Sankranti, Krishna's finger was inadvertently cut, prompting Draupadi to tie a piece of her sari onto his wound. In return, Krishna vowed to safeguard her.

(Story of Lord Krishna and Draupadi from Indian mythology takes center stage | Image: Twitter)

This tale resonates in mythology, manifesting during Draupadi's distressful cheerharan, where her sari, seemingly unending, was Krishna's response to her call for aid.

Yama and the Yamuna: A river's eternal blessing

The tale of Yama, the God of Death, and Yamuna, the river goddess, is equally captivating. After years of absence, Yama's sister Yamuna sought his company. When he visited her, she tied a rakhi and prepared a feast, moving Yama to grant her eternal life.

(Yama's sister Yamuna sought his company | Image: Twitter)

This is why the Yamuna River flows ceaselessly. It is a testament to sibling devotion.

Lord Bali and Goddess Laxmi: A prosperous bond

The narrative of demon king Bali and Goddess Laxmi unveils the festival's prosperity aspect. When Bali sought protection from Lord Vishnu, Laxmi prospered in his abode under disguise. On Shravana's full moon day, Laxmi tied a thread on Bali's wrist, resulting in his gift of prosperity in return. This myth underlines the festival's significance in seeking blessings for abundance.

Rani Karnavati and Emperor Humayun: A tale of courage

Rani Karnavati's valiant tale connects history and Raksha Bandhan. Seeking help against an attack, she sent a rakhi to Emperor Humayun. Despite his delayed arrival, Humayun restored her kingdom, epitomising the festival's spirit of protection and loyalty.

(A young girl ties rakhi to her brother | Image: Twitter)

Roxana and King Porus: A battlefield bond

Even on the battlefield, Raksha Bandhan's spirit prevailed. Roxana, the wife of Alexander the Great, sent a rakhi to King Porus, urging him to spare her husband's life. Touched, Porus displayed chivalry and was exercised restraint during battle, earning respect and honour.

Emperor Humayun and Queen Karnavati: A timely support

In another instance of sibling loyalty, Queen Karnavati sought Humayun's protection against an impending attack. Despite challenges, Humayun responded to her plea, symbolising the festival's significance in uniting people during times of need.

Rabindranath Tagore and the bond of unity

The festival's lore extends beyond mythology. Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore initiated Rakhi Mahotsavas during the Bengal Partition of 1905, uniting Hindus and Muslims in protest against British rule. His tradition of tying rakhis to foster unity and strength continues in parts of West Bengal.

As Raksha Bandhan 2023 approaches, these myths stand as a testament to the festival's enduring significance. Beyond the threads and rituals, these stories encapsulate the essence of protection, unity, and the unbreakable bond between siblings, enriching the celebration's meaning for generations to come.