Raksha Bandhan beyond brother-sister bond: Five unique ways in which people celebrate the festival

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Traditionally, Raksha Bandhan is a celebration of the bond between brothers and sisters, symbolised by a rakhi - the sacred thread of protection, support, love, and care that is central to the festival. While the brother-sister bond still lies at the core of the celebrations, the essence of the occasion has transcended far beyond that.

People now are not only tying rakhis to their brothers but also celebrating other important relationships on Raksha Bandhan.

Here are some ways in which people are adopting new traditions while keeping the meaning and spirit of the festival alive:

Tying rakhi to sisters

Who said only brothers can protect you? Challenging this notion, many sisters tie rakhis to their sisters, deepening their bond and reaffirming the strength of the sibling relationship, irrespective of gender.

Several celebrities like Bhumi Pednekar and Kriti Sanon celebrate the occasion with their sisters.

Tying rakhi to friends who feel like family

For some people, friendships are as special as blood relations. So why not culturally celebrate this bond, and the person who protects, supports, and stands by you like a sibling?

On Raksha Bandhan, many people tie rakhis to their best friends as a way of expressing gratitude and acknowledging their family-like bond.

Tying rakhis to pets

While it may sound unconventional, some people are taking the emotion of this festival beyond humans by tying rakhis to their pets, especially dogs, proving that humans and their furry friends do not only share a bond of friendship but also that of sibling-like affection.

Tying rakhi to trees

Several people and organisations across India encourage tying rakhis to trees as a symbolic gesture of commitment to protecting nature. This practice, often referred to as 'Vrikshabandhan', establishes a special bond between humans and the natural world, all while keeping the cultural spirit of the festival alive.

Tying rakhi to armed forces

In India, it is customary for people, including school students, to send or tie rakhis to members of the armed forces and security personnel. This tradition honours their bravery and expresses gratitude for their role in protecting the nation. Through this practice, the festival takes on a deeper meaning, celebrating protectors beyond siblings.

Apart from these, some people also celebrate Raksha Bandhan in orphanages and old age homes, bringing joy to those who may not have family around to celebrate with.