Celebrating festivals in Indian culture has always been a deep rooted sentiment along with a great religious impact on the people. Raksha Bandhan is one such festival, which is celebrated in the month of Sawan, particularly on Shravan Purnima. According to the sacred Hindu scriptures, Purnima is the full moon night, which blesses us with the 16 phases of the moon. This sacred festival is also known as ‘Sawani’ or ‘Saluno’. It is a day where sisters, young and old, tie the thread of love- the rakhi- around their brother’s wrist. The thread is a symbol of love and protection, denoting a brother’s promise to keep their sister safe throughout their life.
The tradition doesn’t stop here; this gesture of care also extends to the Brahmins, gurus and elder family members. It goes way beyond siblings, building a bridge of mutual respect and connection. Additionally, this day holds special significance for Yajurvedi Brahmins which is marked by the upakarma rituals. These include ceremonies such as casting away (त्याग), sacred bathing (पवित्र स्नान) and offerings to the pandits (पंडितों को प्रसाद देना). On this day, the Brahmin pandits wear the holy thread (known as yajnopavita) and in return offer both yajnopavita and rakhi to their supporters.
The Cosmic Alignment of Stars
Astrology has been an ancient science that emphasises on how stars affect people occasionally. It helps explain when and why festivals like Raksha Bandhan will happen once in every year. Therefore, it gives an easy understanding to the people that the way stars are arranged at this time makes the festival more powerful for relationships and safety.
According to the Puranas, celebrating Raksha Bandhan as per the stated rituals (with specific mantras and prayers) can also help a person save themselves from enemies. With astrological guidance, these rituals are performed during the auspicious planetary timings for their positive effects. Belief has it that when the brother is married, the rakhi is also tied to his wife’s wrist. Hence this tradition acknowledges that for a married brother, every important ceremony is incomplete without the presence and support of his wife.
Influence of Moon on Emotions
In astrology, the moon is linked to feelings, emotions and caring traits. In the month of Sawan as the festival approaches, it aligns with the full moon and marks the peak of affection and strong bonds. The moon’s power makes the connections of the siblings more powerful, making the relationship even better than before.
The Blessings of Jupiter for Siblings
Astrology has it that Jupiter (बृहस्पति ग्रह), is a planet of wisdom, blessings and has a greater positive impact on the relationship of a brother and a sister. The exchange of gifts and prayers on this blessed day is believed to bring Jupiter’s blessings, along with harmony and goodwill.
Mars and Protection
Mars (मंगल ग्रह) is a planet signifying bravery and safety, and is essentially an important aspect of this festival. It is connected to brothers and their protective role in their sisters’ life. Tying a rakhi on the brother’s wrist is like asking Mars to keep their sister safe. Hence, these are the basic astrological highlights of the festival's main idea of protection and safety.
