Mark Your Calendar: Rakhi Falls on Saturday, August 9, 2025 – Check Auspicious Timing, Rituals, and Significance
📅 Raksha Bandhan 2025: Date & Muhurat
According to the Hindu calendar, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Shravana month. In 2025, the festival will be observed on:
- Date: Saturday, 9 August 2025
- Purnima Tithi Begins: 2:12 PM on August 8, 2025
- Purnima Tithi Ends: 1:24 PM on August 9, 2025
- Auspicious Time to Tie Rakhi (Rakhi Muhurat): 5:37 AM to 1:24 PM on August 9, 2025
🪢 Raksha Bandhan: The Festival of Love and Protection
Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi, is one of India’s most emotionally significant and culturally vibrant festivals, celebrating the deep bond between siblings.
Traditionally, sisters tie a rakhi (sacred thread) around their brothers’ wrists, signifying protection and prayers for their well-being, while brothers vow to stand by their sisters and protect them throughout life. Over time, this beautiful festival has evolved to include sisters tying rakhis to sisters, brothers to sisters, and even friends and soldiers — signifying universal love, respect, and solidarity.
📖 Cultural & Mythological Background
Raksha Bandhan is rich in historical and mythological references:
- Draupadi and Krishna: Draupadi tore her sari to bandage Krishna’s wounded hand. Moved by the gesture, Krishna vowed to protect her forever.
- Yamuna and Yama: Yamuna tied a rakhi to Yama, the god of death, and granted him immortality in myth.
- Rani Karnavati and Humayun: A legendary tale of political alliance and honor where the queen of Mewar sent a rakhi to Emperor Humayun seeking protection.
🌍 Celebration Across India
Raksha Bandhan is celebrated with regional variations across the country:
- In North India, especially in Delhi, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh, families gather for rituals, prayer, and gift exchanges.
- In Maharashtra, the festival coincides with Narali Purnima, where fishermen offer coconuts to the sea.
- In South India, it is less widespread but increasingly observed in urban areas.
- In Rajasthan and Gujarat, women tie “Lumba Rakhi” on the bangles of their sisters-in-law, expanding the festival’s family inclusivity.
🎁 Modern Touch: Rakhi Goes Global
With families spread across countries, Raksha Bandhan is now a global celebration. Sisters send rakhis via post or online portals, and virtual rakhi ceremonies over video calls are becoming more common.
Corporate gifting, personalized rakhi hampers, eco-friendly rakhis, and even rakhis for pets are trends reflecting the modern, inclusive spirit of the festival.
🧧 What’s Special in 2025?
- Weekend celebration on a Saturday, allowing more time for families to celebrate together.
- Many temples and community centers are expected to host public Raksha Bandhan events.
- Emphasis on sustainable and handmade rakhis, organic gifts, and “go local” trends in gifting.
