I remember when growing up, I was a single child for a very long time. I would tie a rakhi on my neighbour’s wrist. It was years later that I was blessed with a brother. I guess I was more excited about the rituals of Raksha Bandhan than anything else. However, I thoroughly spoilt him come Raksha Bandhan time and got the most amazing of rakhis.
Today he studies abroad and I miss him, especially during this festive time of the year. It makes me realise that Raksha Bandhan is truly a special occasion that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. It is a time to express love and gratitude for each other and create lasting memories that we can cherish for a lifetime.
Whether you are celebrating together or apart, there are many ways to make Raksha Bandhan 2023 a truly special and feel-good experience.
In this article, we will explore 10 unique and meaningful ways to celebrate this festival with joy and enthusiasm. But before that, let’s understand the significance of Raksha Bandhan, especially in modern times.
Why Do We Celebrate Raksha Bandhan in Modern Times?
Over the years, the celebration of Raksha Bandhan has evolved to retain its traditional essence while also adapting to changing cultural and social dynamics. Here are some reasons why we have adapted the celebration of Raksha Bandhan in modern times:
- Preservation of Tradition: Many people celebrate Raksha Bandhan to honour and uphold their cultural heritage and traditions. It provides a sense of connection to their roots and ancestors.
- Strengthening Sibling Bonds: The festival serves as an occasion for siblings to come together, regardless of geographical distances, and strengthen their bond. In today’s busy world, Raksha Bandhan offers an opportunity for family members to reunite and spend quality time together.
- Expression of Love and Affection: Raksha Bandhan allows siblings to express their love and affection for each other openly. It’s a chance for them to convey their feelings and appreciation, which might be otherwise overlooked in the hustle of daily life.
- Empowerment of Women: In the traditional context, Raksha Bandhan emphasized the brother’s role as a protector. However, in modern times, the festival has evolved to recognize the strength and capabilities of women. Sisters now tie rakhi to brothers not only for protection but also as a symbol of their bond and mutual support.
- Inclusivity: While rooted in Hindu culture, the festival has become more inclusive over time. People from various religious and cultural backgrounds celebrate the festival, highlighting the universality of sibling relationships and the values of love and care.
- Symbolism of Unity: Raksha Bandhan can symbolize unity and harmony among diverse individuals and communities. It promotes the idea of protecting one another and fostering a sense of togetherness in society.
Raksha Bandhan is still celebrated today for its enduring values of love, protection, and unity. While the core meaning remains consistent, the festival has evolved to reflect the changing dynamics of relationships and society.
What do we do on Raksha Bandhan?
We are often faced with this question. Well, traditionally sisters tie a thread on their brothers’ wrists. This thread, often adorned or embellished with an amulet, symbolises the brother’s promise to love, support and protect his sister. In exchange for the thread, the sisters receive a gift in return.
Today, the tradition is still practised but with a modern flair. This is where we can get creative and spend a memorable day with our siblings, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
What are the Unique Ways to Celebrate Raksha Bandhan?
1. Plan a Sweet Feast
One of the best ways to celebrate Raksha Bandhan is by indulging in some delicious sweets. Take the opportunity to bond with your siblings by preparing traditional Indian sweets together, such as besan ke ladoo, peda, barfi or gulab jamun.
If you are not together, you can still share the sweetness by sending a box of sweets to your sibling’s doorstep. The act of sharing and enjoying these special treats will create cherished memories and strengthen your bond.
2. Create a Festive Ambience
To truly immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Raksha Bandhan, decorate your home with vibrant colours and traditional elements. Hang colourful buntings, fairy lights, and paper lanterns to create a festive atmosphere. Add floral arrangements and rangoli designs to bring a touch of elegance to your celebrations.
Creating a visually appealing and joyful ambience will enhance the festive mood and make the day even more special.
3. Personalize Your Rakhi
The Rakhi is the centrepiece of the Raksha Bandhan celebration. Instead of buying a pre-made Rakhi, why not personalize it to make it extra special? Use your creativity to craft a unique Rakhi that reflects your sibling’s interests and personality. You can incorporate their favourite colours, and symbols, or even add a small photo of the two of you.
This personalized touch will show your sibling how much you care and make the Rakhi ceremony even more meaningful.
4. Plan a Day of Fun Activities
Make Raksha Bandhan a day to remember by planning a day filled with fun activities. Organize a picnic in the park or a day at the beach, where you can play games, have a picnic, and enjoy quality time together.
If you are not able to meet in person, you can still have a virtual celebration by organizing online games and activities. The key is to create an atmosphere of joy and laughter, where you can bond and create lasting memories.
5. Share Memories Through Photos and Videos
Take a trip down memory lane by sharing old photos and videos with your siblings. Compile a photo album or create a video montage that showcases your special moments together. This nostalgic journey will evoke feelings of love and gratitude, and remind you of the beautiful bond you share.
You can also create a virtual scrapbook by sharing photos and memories on social media, allowing your friends and family to join in the celebration.
6. Go for Eco-Friendly Rakhis Easily Available Online
It’s a great gesture to opt for eco-friendly Rakhis that are made from earth-friendly materials. And it would be endearing to see your rakhi turn into a plant, grow and blossom. Plantable rakhis are designed with a seed within the rakhi which can be planted once to preserve the sweet memories of this Indian unique festival. The DIY plantable rakhi kit from Whizzgrow is an amazing eco-friendly rakhi kit you can purchase online, and a great way to celebrate Raksha Bandhan in 2023.
Express your love for your sibling and the environment by opting for an eco-friendly rakhi.
7. Cook a Special Meal Together
Cooking together can be a fun and meaningful way to celebrate Raksha Bandhan. Plan a special meal with your siblings, where you can prepare traditional dishes or try something new. Share family recipes and cooking tips, and enjoy the process of creating a delicious meal together. If you are not able to cook together in person, you can still have a virtual cooking session where you share recipes and cook simultaneously.
The shared experience of cooking and enjoying a meal together will create lasting memories.
8. Perform a Rakhi Ceremony
The Rakhi ceremony is the heart of Raksha Bandhan. Whether you are celebrating together or apart, make sure to perform the Rakhi ceremony with love and reverence. Tie the Rakhi on your brother’s wrist while chanting prayers and expressing your love and gratitude. If you are not able to be together, you can send a Rakhi by mail or perform the ceremony over a video call.
The act of tying the Rakhi symbolizes the bond of protection and love between siblings.
9. Give Back to the Community
Raksha Bandhan is not just about celebrating the bond between siblings, but also about spreading love and kindness. Take this opportunity to give back to the community by volunteering or donating to a charitable cause. You can organize a charity drive, visit a local orphanage, or support a cause that is close to your heart.
The act of selflessness and compassion will not only bring joy to others but also deepen the bond between you and your siblings.
10. Express Your Love and Gratitude
Above all, Raksha Bandhan is a time to express your love and gratitude for your siblings. Take the time to write a heartfelt letter or create a handmade card where you can express your feelings and appreciation. Let your siblings know how much they mean to you and how grateful you are to have them in your life.
These heartfelt expressions of love and gratitude will create a strong emotional connection and make Raksha Bandhan a truly meaningful and feel-good experience.
Let’s Celebrate Raksha Bandhan 2023
Raksha Bandhan is a wonderful time to celebrate and strengthen the bond between brothers and sisters. Whether you are celebrating together or apart, these 10 feel-good ways to celebrate Raksha Bandhan 2023 will help you create lasting memories and deepen your bond with your siblings.
Embrace the spirit of love, joy, and togetherness, and make this Raksha Bandhan a truly special and memorable occasion.
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