India is known for its various festivals celebrated across the length and breadth of it throughout the year. And these festivals have a sublime agenda of improving the bonding between family members and also between the families in the communities. Irrespective of the festival, the festivities are enjoyed by all the family members and it's all about spreading the joy and happiness. The festivals or at the least the names of the festivals are all free spirited and one is free to enjoy the way they want to, barring one festival which talks about bondage and not freedom - Raksha Bandhan.
But, the true sense of freedom lies in being bonded with the loved ones I suppose, and the festival of Raksha Bandhan helps enhance such bonding between a brother and sister. There are many theories around how and why the festival evolved, however the significance of the festival is simply to make brothers and sisters accountable for each other's happiness and well being. I remember my mother talking about how I should safeguard my sister and to be with her for eternity. I used to think that the bonding that a brother and sister share since childhood is strong enough and lasts for infinite time, though it might not show the strength from the beginning, it would surface when the need arises. However, with changing times and aspirations of brothers and sisters making them relocate and prioritise their life-goals I think the role of festivals like Raksha Bandhan becomes more significant to rekindle the magical bonding of a brother and sister.
The way Raksha Bandhan is celebrated across the country might vary depending upon the historical theory of the festival in that region, but the essence of it remains same and it is to enhance and strengthen the bonding between a brother and sister. Applying of Tilak on the forehead for the brother's safety and tying the sacred Rakhi on the wrist and feeding a sweet and sisters anticipating a return gift (usually monetary) appear to be the common celebration across most of the communities which celebrate Raksha Bandhan. With many references in the Bollywood movies and special Raksha Bandhan songs and the creative colourful Rakhis and the super delicious sweets, Raksha Bandhan is becoming more joyful each year. Near or far, I wish brothers and sisters unite in the best way possible to celebrate this festival of bond which never breaks. Happy Raksha Bandhan!
P.S: I miss my sister (lives in USA) around this year for Raksha Bandhan, but my love and bonding for her resonates louder than ever, across the seas.
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