What is Raksha Bandhan?
Raksha Bandhan is a famous festival that is celebrated all over India. This festival attracts people from all walks of life, regardless of caste or religion. It falls on the full moon day of the lunar month Shravana (Shravana Poornima), which also happens to be Upa-karma day (changing the sacred thread for the brahmins, Avani Avittom in South India). On this day, sisters apply tilak to their brothers' foreheads, tie the sacred thread called Rakhi around their brothers' wrists, perform arati, and pray for their good health and long life. This thread is known as the ‘Raksha Bandhan,' which means ‘a bond of security.' It reflects the love and sublime sentiments. In exchange, the brother gives his sister a gift and promises to look after her. Before binding a Rakhi on their brothers' hands, the sisters tie one on the Tulasi plant and another on the peepal tree, requesting that nature be protected – Vriksha Raksha Bandhan. During a pandemic, it's diffic...