Did You Know Rakhi Was First Tied by a Wife to Her Husband?
Raksha Bandhan, a festival that honors the special bond between brothers and sisters, involves a brother promising to protect his sister forever. However, this beloved tradition didn’t start with a sister tying a rakhi to her brother. Surprisingly, it began with a wife tying a rakhi to her husband.
The Story of Indra and Indrani
In ancient Vedic times, a fierce battle occurred between the deities and demons on a full moon night in the month of Shravana. The demons were stronger, and the deities were losing. Lord Indra, fearing the worst for the earth, was deeply worried. His wife, Indrani, shared his concern.
Indrani, a devout woman, prepared an amulet and tied it around Indra’s wrist for protection. With this amulet, Indra not only won the battle but remained unhurt. This amulet became known as the Raksha Sutra, leading to the celebration of Raksha Bandhan on the full moon of the Shravan month.
The Tale of Yama and Yamuna
Even though rakhi was initially tied by a wife to her husband, the tradition evolved during the Vedic period. Another story involves Yama and Yamuna, children of Lord Surya (the Sun) and his wife Samjna. Unable to bear Surya’s intense radiations, Samjna left her shadow, Chaaya, to care for her children.
Chaaya was cruel to her stepchildren, Yama and Yamuna. When Yama discovered her true nature, Chaaya cursed him with death and body mutilation. Terrified, Yamuna tied a Raksha Sutra around her brother’s wrist, which saved him from death, though not from mutilation. This act established Yama as the god of death.
Other Legends of Raksha Bandhan
There are many other stories that highlight the significance of Raksha Sutra or Raksha Bandhan. These include tales of Maharani Karnavati and Humayun, Lakshmi and Bali, and Porus and King Alexander. Each story emphasizes the deep value and importance of this festival.
Raksha Bandhan, with its rich history and profound meanings, remains a cherished celebration of the enduring bond between siblings.
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