Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi is a much-beloved Indian festival where the bond of brothers and sisters is celebrated in perpetuity. It is celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Shravan month and is the day when sisters bless their brothers by tying a sacred thread called Rakhi around their wrists in the form of love and protection. In exchange, brothers vow to protect their sisters for life and bestow loving gifts. Raksha Bandhan in 2025 is on Saturday, August 9, with special ceremonies, pujas, and festive customs that unite families across distances and generations.
Raksha Bandhan in 2025 will be celebrated on Saturday, August 9th, not on the 8th – although the full moon (Purnima Tithi) extends over 8th and 9th August. Here’s what you need to know:
Date & Tithi
Purnima Tithi starts on August 8th (2:12 – 3:42 PM) and lasts until August 9th (1:24 – 2:54 PM)
As the full-moon tithi dominates sunrise on August 9th, that is technically Raksha Bandhan day
Shubh Muhurat (Auspicious Time) for Tying Rakhi
- Ideal window to do the Rakhi-tying ritual on August 9 is between: 5:39 AM to 1:24 PM Or 5:47 AM to 1:24 PM, depending on calculation
- Aparahna Muhurat (late afternoon) is the most desired time – usually around 1:41 PM to 2:54 PM
- Avoid the Bhadra period (unfavorable portion of Purnima) — in 2025 it ends early on the festival day morning
- To be on the safe side: attempt the Sankalp and tie Rakhi between sunrise and early afternoon (5:30 AM–1:24 PM) on August 9.
Significance & Legends
Raksha Bandhan, also known as Raksha Purnima, represents the loving connection of brother and sister. Some major points:
Origins in Purnima of Shravan Month, which is observed on full-moon day
Ritual: Sisters apply a rakhi on brothers’ wrists, pray for their health; brothers present gifts and promise to safeguard
Legends Adding Depth
Draupadi applying rakhi to Lord Krishna when he was injured, who vowed to safeguard her forever
Indra and Indrani: Indrani applied the rakhi on Indra, for whose victory over demons he received it
Other tales involve Yama and Yamuna, Rani Karnavati and Humayun—representing relationships of love, duty, and protection
Rituals & Traditions
- Puja Thali preparations: consist of Rakhi, roli, rice, diya, sweets, etc.
- The ritual starts with a tilak and aarti, then tying the rakhi and prayers
- Sisters can also keep a fast (vrat) and provide sweets, while brothers give in return gifts or money
- Following the festival, the rakhi is usually taken out after eight days (usually on Janmashtami) or retained if whole
- Regional traditions differ—some bind rakhis to soldiers, neighbors, or honorary brothers beyond blood ties
Must Read: Gamha Purnima 2025: Why Puri Jagannath Temple is a Must-Visit for Raksha Bandhan
Cultural & Emotional Significance
- Symbolizes love, protection, trust, and family unity, beyond blood relatives
- Remains deeply rooted in Indian culture with shared tales, songs, sweets, and feasts
Quick Summary Table
Detail |
Information |
|
Festival Day |
Saturday, August 9, 2025 |
|
Purnima Tithi |
Begins: Aug 8 afternoon; Ends: Aug 9 early afternoon |
|
Shubh Muhurat |
5:40 AM to 1:24 PM (use earliest window if uncertain) |
|
Best Ritual Time |
During Aparahna (~1:41–2:54 PM) Avoid Bhadra Kaal (ends early morning) |
|
Main Legends |
Krishna & Draupadi; Indra & Indrani; Yama & Yamuna Rani Karnavati |
|
Rituals |
Thali, tilak, aarti, fasting, sweets, gifts |
| Meaning |
Protection, love, lifelong bond |
Conclusion
Raksha Bandhan 2025 is more than a ritual – it’s a celebration of trust, affection, and shared memories. With sisters tying rakhis lovingly and brothers vowing to protect them once again, the festival becomes a reminder of the unbreakable power of relationships. Watching the traditions on the auspicious Shubh Muhurat of August 9, and celebrating with faith and happiness, makes sure that the festival leaves behind not only sweet memories, but a lasting feeling of bonding. This Raksha Bandhan, let love guide the way and strengthen the bond of siblings even more.
