Raksha Bandhan 2024: Auspicious Time (Shubh Muhurat) and Rituals Explained, Shubh Muhurat on Raksha Bandhan
Table of contents [Show]
Raksha Bandhan, a festival that celebrates the eternal bond between brothers and sisters, holds a special place in Hindu culture. In 2024, Raksha Bandhan falls on August 19th a day filled with joy, love, and sacred rituals. The festival is observed on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Shravan, also known as Sawan. This year, the festival is marked by significant auspicious timings (Shubh Muhurat), which are essential for performing the rituals correctly. In this detailed guide, we will explore everything you need to know about Raksha Bandhan 2024, from the Shubh Muhurat to the traditional rituals associated with this sacred occasion.
Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi, is a festival that symbolizes the love, protection, and commitment between siblings. The word "Raksha" means protection, and "Bandhan" means bond, signifying the protective bond that a brother and sister share. On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread (Rakhi) on their brothers' wrists, praying for their long life and prosperity. In return, brothers vow to protect their sisters from all harm and give them gifts as a token of love.
This festival transcends biological relationships, as Rakhi can also be tied between cousins, close friends, or even neighbors, emphasizing the universal message of love and protection.
The importance of observing rituals during the Shubh Muhurat on Raksha Bandhan cannot be overstated. According to Hindu beliefs, performing rituals at the right time ensures blessings and prosperity. The Shubh Muhurat for tying Rakhi on August 19, 2024, is as follows:
- Raksha Bandhan Purnima Tithi Begins: August 19, 2024, at 03:04 AM
- Purnima Tithi Ends: August 19, 2024, at 11:55 PM
However, Raksha Bandhan 2024 is complicated by the presence of Bhadra, a period considered inauspicious for conducting ceremonies. Bhadra's timing is essential to note for performing the Rakhi ritual safely.
- Bhadra Begins: With the start of Purnima on August 19, 2024
- Bhadra Ends: August 19, 2024, at 01:30 PM
- Bhadra Mukha (Head): August 19, 2024, from 10:53 AM to 12:37 PM
- Bhadra Puchha (Tail): August 19, 2024, from 09:51 AM to 10:53 AM
Shubh Muhurat for Tying Rakhi: The most auspicious time to tie Rakhi on August 19, 2024, is from 01:30 PM to 09:07 PM, giving a total of 7 hours and 37 minutes for the ritual. It is crucial to avoid tying Rakhi during the Bhadra period, as it is considered inauspicious.
Bhadra is a specific period during which any auspicious work is avoided in Hindu tradition. According to mythology, Bhadra is considered inauspicious as it is believed to be the time when the demoness Bhadra (the daughter of Surya, the Sun God) brings misfortune. Therefore, no significant or sacred rituals should be performed during this time. In 2024, Bhadra ends at 01:30 PM on Raksha Bandhan, after which the Shubh Muhurat for tying Rakhi begins.
Performing the Raksha Bandhan rituals with the right intentions and in the correct manner is essential for invoking divine blessings. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the rituals:
1. Preparation of Rakhi Thali: Before the Shubh Muhurat, prepare a Rakhi Thali (plate) with all the necessary items. The Thali typically includes a Rakhi, rice grains (Akshat), turmeric (Kumkum), sweets, a Diya (lamp), and some incense sticks. These items are symbolic and play an essential role in the ritual.
2. Offering Prayers: Begin by lighting the Diya in the Rakhi Thali. Offer prayers to Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, seeking their blessings for the well-being of your brother. Recite mantras and focus on the protection and prosperity of your family.
3. Applying Tilak: Once the prayers are done, apply a Tilak (a mark) on your brother's forehead. The Tilak is usually made from a mixture of turmeric and rice grains and symbolizes victory, strength, and divine blessings.
4. Tying the Rakhi: Now, take the Rakhi and tie it on your brother’s right wrist. While tying the Rakhi, tie three knots. According to tradition, the first knot is for your brother's long life, the second knot is for your own long life, and the third knot symbolizes the strength of your bond. It is a sacred promise that both siblings will always protect and support each other.
5. Reciting the Raksha Mantra: As you tie the Rakhi, recite the Raksha Mantra:
- _Yen Baddho Bali Raja, Danavendro Mahabalah,_
- _Tena Tvam Anubadhnaami, Rakshey Machal Machalah._
This mantra was once chanted by Lord Vishnu to protect the king Bali. Reciting this mantra during the ritual is believed to protect the brother from all evil and obstacles.
6. Offering Sweets: After tying the Rakhi, offer sweets to your brother. This act symbolizes the sweet and harmonious relationship between siblings. Sweets like laddoos, barfis, or any traditional delicacy are typically offered during the ceremony.
7. Performing Aarti: The sister then performs an Aarti (a ritual of worship) for her brother, waving the Diya in a circular motion in front of him. This act is believed to remove any negative energies and ensure the brother's well-being.
8. Receiving Gifts: After the rituals, the brother offers a gift to his sister as a token of appreciation and love. The gift can be anything from money, clothes, jewelry, or something personal that reflects the bond they share.
9. Family Feast: Raksha Bandhan is also a time for family gatherings and feasts. After the rituals, the family usually sits together for a special meal, enjoying traditional dishes and sweets. This adds to the festive spirit and strengthens the family bond.
Read Our Other Blog - Modi Inaugurate Sigra Stadium
Raksha Bandhan has deep roots in Indian mythology and history. Several stories highlight the significance of this festival:
1. Draupadi and Lord Krishna: One of the most famous tales is from the Mahabharata, where Draupadi tied a piece of her saree around Lord Krishna's wrist to stop his bleeding. In return, Krishna vowed to protect her, which he fulfilled during the disrobing incident in the Kaurava court.
2. Yama and Yamuna: Another story from mythology speaks of the bond between Yama, the God of Death, and his sister Yamuna. When Yamuna tied a Rakhi to Yama, he granted her immortality and promised to protect anyone who tied a Rakhi in the future.
3. Queen Karnavati and Emperor Humayun: In history, Queen Karnavati of Chittor sent a Rakhi to Mughal Emperor Humayun, seeking his protection against Bahadur Shah's invasion. Humayun honored the Rakhi and came to her aid, showcasing the strength of the Raksha Bandhan bond.
The Contemporary Celebration of Raksha Bandhan
In modern times, Raksha Bandhan has evolved while retaining its core values. The festival is no longer limited to siblings of the same family but has expanded to include cousins, friends, and even neighbors. The bond of protection and love is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India and in Indian communities worldwide.
Raksha Bandhan is now also celebrated online, with sisters sending Rakhis and gifts through e-commerce platforms to brothers living far away. Despite the distance, technology has enabled families to come together virtually and maintain the traditions of Raksha Bandhan.
To make Raksha Bandhan 2024 even more special, here are some tips:
1. Personalized Rakhis: Consider opting for personalized Rakhis that reflect your brother's personality or interests. Whether it's a Rakhi with his favorite superhero, a photo Rakhi, or a customized message, a personal touch adds more meaning to the ritual.
2. Eco-Friendly Celebrations: In line with the growing awareness of environmental issues, opt for eco-friendly Rakhis made from sustainable materials like organic cotton, seeds, or clay. This not only celebrates the bond between siblings but also shows love for the planet.
3. Virtual Celebrations: If you and your brother are in different locations, plan a virtual Raksha Bandhan celebration. Use video calls to perform the rituals, exchange stories, and share your love, even if it's from a distance.
4. Healthy Sweets: Consider offering healthy sweets like dry fruits, jaggery-based sweets, or sugar-free options that are both delicious and
