The thread of love: Raksha Bandhan
A torn piece of cloth, a promise, and a colourful thread.
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On Raksha Bandhan, sisters and brothers get ready early. A plate is decorated with a lamp, roli, rice grains, sweets and a pretty rakhi. -
An old story says Krishna once cut his finger. Draupadi quickly tore a strip from her sari and tied it around his finger to stop the bleeding. -
Krishna was touched by her care and promised to always protect her. And when she needed help, he kept his promise. -
Today a sister ties a rakhi on her brother’s wrist, and they promise to care for each other always. Cousins and friends tie rakhis too — it is a festival of love and looking after each other.
Did you know?
Raksha Bandhan falls on the full moon of Shravana. On the same day, fishing families on the west coast offer a coconut to the sea for Narali Purnima.
Something to make
Make a rakhi with coloured thread, a paper flower and a button. Who would you like to give it to?
This year Raksha Bandhan is on Tuesday, 17 August 2027. Dates and timings for grown-ups
Families and regions tell these stories in different ways. This is one simple version for children.