Raksha Bandhan, or Rakhi, is one of the earliest festivals in India. Its roots go down to the times when India was an abode for divine beings. There are many different legends and stories that explain the origin of Rakhi. However, all these accounts have one thing in common and that is the purpose of Rakhi. It was and still is the bond of protection. Parents, help your kids learn more about Rakhi and its significance this year by teaching them the following things.
• Lord Indra and the Origin of Rakhi
Going back to the ancient times of India yields many stories that played a part in the origin of Rakhi celebration. One such account is of Lord Indra and his wife Indrani. During his time, a war took place between the Gods and the demons. Lord Indra was on the verge of defeat as the demon King Brutra advanced steadily with his demonic army. In order to save her husband from the demons, Queen Indrani tieda pious rakhi thread on Indra’s hand on the day of Shravan Purnima, the day Rakhi is still celebrated. However, sisters tie rakhi on their brother’s wrists now but its origin lies in the relationship between a husband and a wife.
• Lord Krishna and Draupadi
Another interesting tale that will catch the attention of your kids is the legend of Lord Krishna and Draupadi. Draupadi was the wife of the Pandavas. Krishna was injured in a battle when she tied a piece of cloth around his wrist to stop the bleeding from his wound. She had torn that cloth from her dress. Krishna was so touched by this act of kindness that he declared Draupadi as his sister and promised to protect her from all dangers that might befall her.
• King Alexander and King Porus
This one is a historical account. When Alexander invaded India, his wife Roxana sent a rakhi to the Katoch King Porus to bind him in a promise that he will not hurt her husband and grant him protection in the war. When Porus was about to kill Alexander in the battlefield, he saw the rakhi on his wrist and restrained himself. The Rakhi thread is really a lifesaver as you can teach your children.
• Rakhi Rituals
Apart from the events that led to the start of Rakhi, it is equally important to teach your children about the rituals that are followed in the auspicious Rakhi (www.rakhi.in/auspicious-rakhi.html) celebrations. Every year, a few days before Raksha Bandhan, sisters buy beautiful rakhis for their brothers. On the day of the celebration, they prepare a plate, called the Rakhi Thali, by arranging the rakhi, some water, rice, vermillion powder and sweets on it. Then the sister applies a mark on her brother’s forehead with the vermillion powder and ties the rakhi on his right wrist. They brother offers her rakhi gifts in return to consolidate their relationship.
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