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: