Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan has numerous traditions and legends surrounding its observance. In Guyana, Hindus follow the North Indian tradition of tying the Rakhi (sacred thread) by sisters on the right wrist of brothers. Brothers commit to render help and protection when needed. The Mahabharata legend is reflected upon on this occasion. When Shishupaal crossed all boundaries of Dharma at the Rajyasurya Yajna held by Emperor Yudhisthir, Sri Krishna had no recourse than slaying him. After slaying him with the Sudarshan Chakra, Krishna’s finger was cut. Queen Droupadi tore her saaree and tied the cut of Sri Krishna. He promised to protect her when the need arises. It was at the Vastra Haran, when Droupdi was being disrobed by the Kauravas in the presence of an assembly and when everyone failed her, Sri Krishna came to her rescue and saved her dignity.
In South India, Raksha Bandhan is called Avani Avittam. It is an important Hindu festival. Hindus wear a new holy thread and offer libations of water to the ancient Rishis on this day. Recitation of the Vedas on this great day is highly beneficial. This festival is also known as Upakarmam, and is specially sacred to the Brahmins, who have been invested with the sacred thread.
On this day, Sachi, the consort of Indra, tied a holy thread or amulet around the wrist of Indra, when he was defeated by the demons. Then Indra, the king of gods, gained victory over the demons by the power of this protection (Raksha means “protection”). He then recovered the lost city of Amaravati.
Raksha means protection and Bandhan means a tie or bond. It is essentially a bond of protection. In the deeper spiritual sense, it is the symbolic seeking of spiritual protection of the mind from any form of disturbances to one’s Sadhana (spiritual pursuit).
Discover more from The Hindu Media Guyana
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
.){kind=link}