Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on the day of Sawan Purnima.
Certain Rakhis should be avoided as they can bring negative consequences to the lives of both the brother and sister.
Raksha Bandhan is a traditional Hindu festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. On this day, sisters tie rakhi [a sacred thread] around their brothers’ wrists, which symbolises love and prayers for their siblings’ long lives. This year, Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on Monday, August 19. Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on the day of Sawan Purnima. Though it’s an auspicious day which celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters, it is also important to keep in mind the type of Rakhi chosen for the ritual. According to astrologers, certain Rakhis should be avoided as they can bring negative consequences to the lives of both the brother and sister.
The favourable time to tie a Rakhi on Raksha Bandhan is very crucial as it ensures the ritual’s positive effects. This year, the period of Bhadra, during which tying a Rakhi is considered traditionally inauspicious will begin on Sunday, August 18, at 2:21 PM and will end on Monday, August 19, at 1:25 PM. It is recommended to tie the Rakhi only after 1:25 PM on August 19 in order to avoid the negative influence of Bhadra.
Astrologers from Deoghar advise not to use Rakhis that feature black-coloured threads, sharp objects, or symbols associated with negativity. Black is often considered as an inauspicious colour in many traditions, as it is somehow associated with negative energy. Tying a Rakhi with black threads or decorations can unintentionally attract negative influences. Similarly, Rakhis adorned with sharp objects like blades or pointed symbols can signify harm or aggression, which goes against the protective and nurturing spirit of Raksha Bandhan.
Astrologers advise using silk threads instead of black threads. Rakhis that do not feature images of deities are considered as a negative symbol. The absence of the image of a deity is believed to lessen the protective and auspicious qualities of Rakhi. It is thus advised to choose Rakhis that feature the image of deities as it is a sacred symbol which ensures the well being of the brothers.
Even Rakhi made of plastic or old and broken Rakhi should never be adorned as it is a negative symbol.