In Sanatan Dharma, the festival of Raksha Bandhan is celebrated as a profound symbol of the sacred love, bond, and trust shared between brothers and sisters. On this auspicious day, sisters tie a protective thread around their brothers' wrists and pray for their longevity, prosperity, and a joyful life. However, according to religious beliefs and ancient traditions, tying rakhis to deities on this day is also an established custom. It is believed that doing so bestows the blessings of the divine upon devotees and brings lasting positivity into their lives.
According to Ayodhya-based astrologer Pandit Kalki Ram, women who do not have brothers can treat their chosen deity as a brother and celebrate Raksha Bandhan by offering a rakhi to them. At the same time, even those who have brothers can auspiciously tie protective threads to deities as well, which is considered highly rewarding.
Offering a Green Rakhi to Lord Shiva
Raksha Bandhan falls on the full moon day of the Shravan month. During this period, Lord Vishnu rests in Yoganidra within the Kshir Sagar, and as per religious traditions, the responsibility of managing worldly affairs falls under the purview of Lord Shiva. Therefore, tying a green rakhi to Lord Shiva on Raksha Bandhan is deemed highly auspicious, invoking blessings for happiness, prosperity, and abundance.
Benefits of Offering Rakhi to Lord Ganesha and Lord Hanuman
Lord Ganesha is revered as Vighnaharta, the remover of obstacles, and is always worshipped first among deities. Tradition dictates offering a protective thread to Lord Ganesha before tying one on a brother's wrist. It is believed that this removes hurdles from one's path and brings success in auspicious endeavors. On the other hand, Lord Hanuman is worshipped as a source of strength, courage, and relief from troubles. According to religious traditions, offering a rakhi to Lord Hanuman grants the devotee inner strength and confidence, while also praying for protection against negative energies and the evil eye.
The Tradition of Tying Rakhi to Lord Krishna
Many young girls also tie rakhis to Lord Shri Krishna on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan. Mythological narratives highlight the affectionate bond of protection and sibling-like love shared between Lord Krishna and Draupadi. Inspired by this sentiment, devotees offer protective threads to Lord Krishna to seek his divine grace and lifelong protection.
As Pandit Kalki Ram explains, Raksha Bandhan is not merely a ritual limited to tying a thread on a brother's wrist, but a powerful symbol of protection, love, and unwavering faith. Hence, offering protective threads with deep devotion to one's chosen deities on this day and seeking their blessings is considered deeply auspicious.
