Celebrating the eternal bond

Brother-sister relationship is one of the most beautiful relationships of the world. One finds the best friend, second parent, silly fights, partner in crime and protector in this one relation. In short, siblings are friends and guides to each other. Siblings play a unique role in one another's lives that simulates the companionship of parents as well as the influence and assistance of friends. Because siblings often grow up in the same household, they have a good amount of exposure to one another, like other members of the immediate family.

Celebrating the eternal bond between brothers and sisters on a full moon day in the month of Shravana (August) is the festival of Raksha Bandhan. It is celebrated during the day time. Brothers and sisters adorn beautiful attires to celebrate this pious day. The sisters apply tilak on the brothers' forehead, tie the rakhi on their wrist and exchange sweets. While carrying out this ritual the sisters pray for the well being of their brothers. The brothers give gifts to their sisters and pledge that they will stand by them and take care of them in every situation.

The ritual is mostly followed by a family brunch. Raksha Bandhan is thus no longer just a day to celebrate the brother-sister bond but also a good occasion to bond with other family members. It is not just celebrated among real brothers and sisters but also among cousins. People mostly gather at their ancestral house where all the cousins and their families can gather and celebrate the day. In today's busy life when people find it hard to meet their near and dear ones, occasions such as these offer a good chance to bond with them.