Every year, as the monsoon clouds gather and the full-moon (Purnima) of the month of Shravana approaches, millions of brothers and sisters across India prepare to celebrate Raksha Bandhan — a beautiful festival of love, bonding and protection. It is a day when a sister ties a sacred thread (rakhī) on her brother’s wrist, praying for his long life and well-being, and the brother in turn pledges to protect and support her. This festival honours not just the bond of siblings but also the spirit of care, respect and mutual responsibility that underlies family relationships.
Raksha Bandhan 2026 Date & Shubh Muhurat
For 2026, according to the panchāng details from DrikPanchang:
- Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on Friday, 28 August 2026.
- The most auspicious time to tie the rakhī for the New Delhi region is from 05:57 AM to 09:48 AM.
- The Purnima tithi begins at 09:08 AM on 27 August and ends at 09:48 AM on 28 August.
- The panchāng further advises avoiding the interval of Bhadrā (an inauspicious period) and suggests doing the ritual in the morning or during the suitable muhurat rather than blindly following customary morning hours that might fall under Bhadrā.
Significance of Raksha Bandhan
- Symbol of Protection and Bond
The word “Raksha Bandhan” literally translates to “the bond of protection.” On this day, sisters express their love, prayers and good wishes for their brothers, and brothers reciprocate with a promise — a pledge to protect and support. It formalises a sweet ritual of respect, responsibility and affection between siblings.
- Mythological & Cultural Roots
Several legends underline the importance of this festival:
- One well-known story relates to Yudhishthira and Krishna in the Bhavishya Purana, wherein the ritual of tying a protective thread (rakshā) on the wrist of the king is described.
- Another popular tale features the union of sisters and soldiers: for example, after Rani Karnavati of Mewar sent a rakhi to Humayun (the Mughal ruler), symbolically making him her brother and thus securing his promise of protection.
- Social and Seasonal Significance
Raksha Bandhan falls at the end of the monsoon month of Shravana (typically July–August) when the full moon marks a natural transition. According to tradition, it’s appropriate to perform this festival when Bhadra (an inauspicious interval) has passed and the tithi is favourable.
In more recent times, the festival has evolved to emphasise not just biological siblings but also other bonds of protection and friendship — rakhis are sometimes tied to soldiers, cousins or even across communities to honour mutual support and solidarity.
How to Observe on 28 August 2026
- Early in the morning, freshen up, wear clean/traditional clothes and prepare a puja thali with roli, chawal, sweets, flowers and the rakhi.
- Ensure the puja is performed within the muhurat (05:57 AM–09:48 AM) for greatest auspiciousness. If you’re in another city, check your local panchāng for the exact timing.
- The sister performs a ‘tilak’ on her brother’s forehead, ties the rakhi around his wrist, does an arati and offers sweets—while praying for his well-being and long life.
- The brother offers a gift (or token of appreciation), blesses his sister and takes the responsibility of being her protector in whatever way he can.
- It’s also a good practice to express gratitude, recall shared memories, resolve to nurture the bond going forward, and if possible do a small act of charity or help someone in need to extend the festival’s spirit.
- Post-ritual, families often enjoy a festive meal, exchange gifts and re-affirm their connection.
Why This Festival Matters
In today’s world, where people often live apart, where digitised relationships replace physical proximity, Raksha Bandhan reminds us of something deeply human: the need to care and be cared for, to stand for one another, to build and sustain bonds that are rooted in both affection and duty. The clearly defined date and muhurat for 2026 invite us to approach the day not just as a routine ritual but as a conscious celebration — honoring a promise, renewing a covenant, and sharing joy.
May this Raksha Bandhan in 2026 deepen your ties, renew your commitments and bring peace, protection and happiness to you, your siblings and your family. Happy Raksha Bandhan! 🎉