Raksha Bandhan: Dates, Bhadra Timing and Rakhi Muhurat
Raksha Bandhan falls on Shravan Purnima. In 2026 it is on July 29. Sisters tie rakhi after the Bhadra period ends.
2026 guide
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What is Raksha Bandhan 2026 date?
Raksha Bandhan 2026 falls on August 22, 2026 (Saturday), Shravan Purnima (full moon of Shravan). Note: This date also coincides with Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 due to tithi timing. Sisters will typically tie rakhi in the morning, and Ganesh Chaturthi puja is performed in the evening.
What is the significance of Raksha Bandhan?
Raksha Bandhan (Rakhi) celebrates the sacred bond of protection between brothers and sisters. 'Raksha' means protection and 'Bandhan' means bond. Sisters tie a sacred thread (rakhi) on their brothers' wrists while praying for their well-being. Brothers vow to protect their sisters and give gifts in return.
What are the different types of Rakhi?
Types of rakhi: Traditional cotton/silk thread rakhi (simplest form), Mauli (red thread with auspiciousness), Lumba rakhi (for sisters-in-law/bhabhi), Bhaiya-bhabhi rakhi set, Silver/gold embellished rakhi, eco-friendly seed rakhis (that can be planted), and themed rakhis with deities, superheroes, or characters. Sandalwood, rudraksha, and tulsi rakhis carry spiritual significance.
What is the story behind Raksha Bandhan?
Multiple legends: 1. Indra (king of gods) had his wife tie a holy thread on his wrist before a battle with demon Vritra; he won. 2. During the Mahabharata, Draupadi tore a piece of her saree to bandage Krishna's bleeding wrist; Krishna vowed eternal protection. 3. Rani Karnavati sent a rakhi to Mughal Emperor Humayun when her kingdom was threatened; he came to her aid. 4. Yamraj (death god) and his sister Yamuna's bond is also celebrated.
Can rakhi be sent to brothers living abroad?
Yes, many brands and services offer rakhi delivery internationally. Sisters can send a physical rakhi by post or courier, or tie a virtual rakhi via video call. The emotional bond is what matters. Many brothers working abroad return home specifically for Raksha Bandhan. Digital rakhi celebrations have become common since 2020.
Who else ties rakhi beyond brothers?
Rakhi is not limited to biological brothers. Sisters tie rakhi to: cousins, close friends (honorary brothers), godbrothers, and in some traditions, the bond is observed symbolically with a male deity (Hanuman, Krishna, Vishnu) or male elders. In some regions, Brahmin priests tie rakhi on the wrist of community members. The spirit of protection and care is broader than strict family roles.
What gift is traditionally given on Raksha Bandhan?
Traditional Raksha Bandhan gifts from brothers to sisters: Cash (the most practical and popular), clothes, jewelry, sweets, cosmetics, handbags, gadgets, or gift cards. In return, sisters give the brother a puja thali with rakhi, kumkum, diya, sweets (mithai), and sometimes a coconut. The gift exchange symbolizes the reciprocal love and care in the sibling bond.
What is Rakhi Purnima and its other names?
Raksha Bandhan falls on Shravan Purnima (full moon). This day has multiple names and observances: In Maharashtra, it is Narali Purnima (coconut full moon festival for fishing communities). In Rajasthan, it is Kajri Purnima. For Brahmin priests, it is Avani Avittam (sacred thread change ceremony in South India). The full moon itself is Shravan Purnima, one of the year's most important Purnimas.