Raksha Bandhan, a special Hindu festival, holds special significance as it honors the profound connections we share with our siblings. Rooted in tradition, the act of sisters tying the Rakhi around their brothers’ wrists carries heartfelt wishes for prosperity, happiness, and a life of fulfillment. In return, brothers wholeheartedly pledge to safeguard and shower unconditional love upon their sisters.
Modern times have witnessed a beautiful twist, where brothers now extend the gesture by tying Rakhis on their sisters’ wrists, and sisters, in turn, bestow the sacred thread upon each other, symbolizing mutual protection and affection. Beyond these rituals, the day brims with sibling love as they exchange gifts in each other’s favorite treats, adding a delightful touch to the festivities.
Is Raksha Bandhan 2023 on August 30 or 31?
The confusion about the exact date of Raksha Bandhan this year is due to Bhadra Kaal. Typically, Raksha Bandhan falls on the Full Moon day of the Sawan month, which usually translates to either August 30 or 31. To clear the fog, let’s turn to insights from Drik Panchang.
Raksha Bandhan 2023 Shubh Muhurat
For those who want to celebrate Raksha Bandhan at the most auspicious time(Shubh Muhurat), the Shubh Muhurat provides the answer. According to Drik Panchang, Raksha Bandhan 2023 is on August 30, a Wednesday. The perfect time to tie the sacred Rakhi thread starts after 9:01 pm, right after Bhadr Kaal.
What is Bhadra Kaal and How does it affect Raksha Bandhan 2023
The mystery of Raksha Bandhan’s date is linked to Bhadra Kaal, a period considered inauspicious for rituals. To navigate this, keep in mind that Bhadra Kaal is at 9:01 pm on August 30. So, that’s when you can start your Raksha Bandhan festivities. Bhadra Poonch is from 5:30 pm to 6:31 pm, and Bhadra Mukha follows from 6:31 pm to 8:11 pm.
The Poornima Tithi, representing the Full Moon, sets the backdrop for Raksha Bandhan. It begins at 10:58 am on August 30 and concludes at 7:05 am on August 31. These timings play a significant role in the festival.
Although tradition suggests the afternoon is ideal for Raksha Bandhan, the shadow of Bhadra Kaal nudges us to be thoughtful. Respect this influence, and consider conducting rituals after Bhadra Kaal ends, ensuring a positive and auspicious celebration.
Raksha Bandhan 2023 Puja Vidhi
Cleanse Yourself
Begin the auspicious ritual by taking a purifying bath. Attire yourself in clean clothes, symbolizing a fresh start.
Prepare the Puja Thali
Assemble a dedicated puja thali with care. Arrange essential elements – Rakhi threads, Rice grains, Kumkum or sandalwood paste, Akshat (sacred rice), Sweets or offerings, Diya (lamp), and incense sticks.
Light the Diya
Illuminate the diya (lamp) and kindle the incense sticks. The radiant light signifies the divine presence during the ceremony.
Offer Prayers
Commence by offering heartfelt prayers to Lord Ganesha. Seek his divine blessings for a harmonious and successful puja. Chant the revered Ganesh mantra or recite familiar prayers.
Apply Tilak and Aarti
Apply a tilak, either kumkum or sandalwood paste, on your brother’s forehead. Engage in an enchanting aarti, encircling your brother in a clockwise motion with the puja thali. Fill the surroundings with aarti mantras or melodious devotional songs.
Tie the Rakhi
Express your profound sibling love by securing the Rakhi thread around your brother’s right wrist. While tying the Rakhi, convey your affectionate feelings and heartfelt emotions.
Exchange Gifts and Sweets
Following the Rakhi ceremony, exchange thoughtful gifts and delectable sweets. These tokens symbolize the cherished bond and mutual appreciation.
Seek Blessings
For younger brothers, a gesture of respect and gratitude awaits – seek blessings from your sister. A simple touch of her feet reflects your reverence and closeness.
Share a Meal
Enhance the celebratory spirit by preparing a delightful, special meal. Relish the dishes together, enjoying the shared moments of togetherness.
Raksha Bandhan 2023 is the symbol of the pure bond between siblings. Amidst Bhadra Kaal uncertainty, Drik Panchang designates August 30 as propitious, urging festivities after 9:01 pm. The Puja Vidhi entails a pure bath, thali arrangement, prayers, tilak, Rakhi tying, gift exchange, seeking blessings, and sharing a joyful meal. Let this celebration resound as a testament to the enduring embrace of love, protection, and unwavering devotion between brothers and sisters.