Rakhi Bandhan

Bengali

Also known as: Raksha Bandhan, Rakhi

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2026 Bengali Date

Rakhi Bandhan

About Rakhi Bandhan

Rakhi Bandhan, or Raksha Bandhan, celebrates the sacred bond between brothers and sisters on the full moon day (Purnima) of Shravan month (July-August). Sisters tie a decorative thread (rakhi) on their brothers' wrists, praying for their well-being.

In Bengal, the festival has a unique tradition called Bhai Phonta, which is celebrated on a different day. However, Rakhi Bandhan is also widely observed with great enthusiasm across the state.

The ceremony involves sisters performing aarti, applying tilak, and tying the rakhi while chanting prayers for their brother's long life and prosperity. Brothers in turn promise to protect their sisters and offer gifts.

The festival strengthens the bond of love between siblings and is a time for family reunions, feasting, and the exchange of gifts and sweets.

Vrat Vidhi & Fasting Rules

Sisters observe a light fast until the rakhi ceremony is completed.

Step-by-Step Fasting Procedures:

Sisters observe a light fast during the day.
Prepare the rakhi thali with all necessary items.
Perform the ceremony -- aarti, tilak, and rakhi tying.
Brothers offer gifts and blessings to their sisters.

Parana (Breaking Fast) Note: The festive meal is enjoyed after the ceremony with family.

Puja Samagri & Ritual Steps

Essential Puja Samagri:

Rakhi (decorative thread)Kumkum and rice grainsEarthen lamp and incenseSweets and fruitsWater for aarti

Puja Procedure:

Prepare the rakhi thali with kumkum, rice, and the rakhi.
Perform aarti of the brother.
Apply tilak on the brother's forehead.
Tie the rakhi on the brother's wrist with prayers.
Brother offers gifts and promises protection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the significance of Rakhi Bandhan?

Rakhi Bandhan celebrates the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. The rakhi symbolises the sister's love and prayers, while the brother's acceptance signifies his promise of protection.

Q: What is Bhai Phonta?

Bhai Phonta is the Bengali version of Rakhi, celebrated on a different day. Sisters apply a special tilak (phonta) on their brothers' foreheads, praying for their long life and well-being.

Note: All timings are represented in 24-hour notation in local time of the selected location with DST adjustment (if applicable).

Hours which are past midnight are suffixed with next day date. In Panchang, a day starts and ends with local sunrise.