Raksha Bandhan 2024: As per News9LIve This year, the cherished Hindu festival of Raksha Bandhan, emblematic of sibling love and care, will unfold under the rare celestial alignment known as Panchak.
Set for August 19, a Monday, the festival is poised to witness unique astrological configurations, imbuing the occasion with added spiritual significance.
Raksha Bandhan 2024 timings
This year, Raksha Bandhan will be marked by the occurrence of five auspicious yogas, an event taking place after 90 years. These yogas include Ravi, Saubhagya, Sarvarth Siddhi, and Shobhan Shravana Nakshatra. In addition, Trigrahi Yoga, Budhaditya Yoga, Shash Rajayoga, and Shukraaditya Rajayoga will also form on this day, further enhancing its significance.
According to the Panchang, Raksha Bandhan this year will fall under the shadow of Bhadra, which begins on August 19 at 2:21 AM and ends at 1:30 PM. After this period, sisters can tie Rakhi to their brothers. The full moon of the month of Shravan will start on August 19 at 3:03 AM and conclude at 11:54 PM. Therefore, based on Udaya Tithi (the sunrise date), the festival of Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on August 19.
This time, Raj Panchak will coincide with Raksha Bandhan. Since Raksha Bandhan falls on a Monday this year, and Raj Panchak occurs on Mondays, it is considered highly auspicious according to astrology. All tasks performed on this day are believed to be blessed with success. On Raksha Bandhan, Panchak will start at 7 PM on August 19 and last until 5:53 AM on August 20. Therefore, sisters need not worry. The Panchak period this year is deemed highly auspicious for Raksha Bandhan, allowing sisters to tie Rakhi to their brothers during this time.
Rakhi ritual and traditions
On this day, sisters tie a Rakhi-a sacred thread symbolising their affection and prayers for their brothers’ long life-on their wrists. In return, brothers pledge protection and present gifts, fortifying the bond of kinship. It is recommended that all rituals be conducted post-1:30 PM, following the end of Bhadra, in alignment with the Raksha Bandhan 2024 muhurat time.
Cultural norms also dictate specific attire and practices for the day:
- Leather Prohibition: Items made of leather, such as belts and shoes, are advised against due to their inauspicious associations with astrological traditions.
- Colour Symbolism: Black clothing is discouraged; instead, vibrant hues like yellow, red, or pink are recommended to attract positive energies.
- Seating Arrangements: While tying the Rakhi, sisters should light a lamp on the tray to enhance the flow of positive energy and sit on a mat or chair.
- Hand Specifics: Scriptures prescribe that men and unmarried women should wear the Rakhi on the right wrist, whereas married women should adorn the left.
The festival of Raksha Bandhan not only reinforces familial ties but also blends rich cultural traditions with deep astrological beliefs, making it a profound celebration in the Hindu calendar. As the full moon of Shravana illuminates the night from the early hours through nearly midnight, the day promises to be a beacon of joy and spiritual reverence.