Mumbai: Raksha Bandhan is traditionally celebrated as a symbol of love and protection between brothers and sisters. But in 2025, this sacred festival is embracing a broader definition—where love is not limited to just brother-sister ties. The bond can just as beautifully exist between two sisters or even two brothers. This year, Raksha Bandhan falls on Friday, 9 August 2025, and families across India will celebrate it with joy, ritual, and emotion on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravan.
In many homes, sisters lovingly apply a tilak on their brother’s forehead and tie the sacred rakhi thread on his wrist. But not every household has a brother. In such cases, two sisters may choose to celebrate the day by tying rakhi to each other, symbolising mutual love and protection. Similarly, in the absence of a sister, brothers may turn to their mothers or paternal aunts (bua) to uphold the spirit of the occasion. There are no rigid rules that define who can or cannot tie a rakhi. The essence lies in preserving the dignity and emotional strength of relationships.
Can Sisters Tie Rakhi to Each Other?
There is no strict rule in Hindu tradition that says only a sister can tie rakhi to a brother. Festivals are for everyone, and each individual has the right to celebrate love in their own way. In households with two or more sisters and no brothers, it has become increasingly common for the sisters to tie rakhi to one another. This reflects the evolving meaning of Raksha Bandhan—one that transcends gender roles and focuses on the emotion of protection and connection. Whether or not sisters tie rakhi to each other often depends on family traditions and personal values.
The Deeper Meaning Behind the Rakhi Ritual
Tying a rakhi is symbolic. It is a promise made by the brother that he will stand by his sister’s side through every challenge and protect her always. But when two sisters participate in this ritual, the thread still holds the same intention—to safeguard one another with love, loyalty, and respect. It is a celebration of togetherness, not limited by labels.
The Sacred Mantra to Recite While Tying Rakhi
Whether you’re tying a rakhi to a brother or sister, chanting this ancient mantra adds spiritual strength to the ritual:
“Yena baddho bali rājā dānavendro mahābalaḥ।
tena tvām abhi baddhnāmi rakṣe mā chala mā chala॥”
Meaning in English:
“I tie this sacred thread that once bound the mighty king Bali, the king of demons. I bind you with the same protection. O sacred thread, remain firm and unwavering in your vow.”
As Raksha Bandhan evolves with the times, its core remains unchanged—a celebration of love, trust, and eternal bonds.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not endorse or validate these claims.)