ଶ୍ରୀମଦ୍ଭଗବତ୍ ଗୀତା ରହସ୍ୟ--ପ୍ରଥମ ଖଣ୍ଡ-ଦ୍ୱିତୀୟ ଅଧ୍ୟାୟ ଡାକ୍ତର ସୁଧାଂଶୁ ଶେଖର ମିଶ୍ର

 

Raksha Bandhan  (Summary)

Raksha Bandhan is a unique Indian festival celebrated on **Shravana Purnima** that goes beyond tradition — it has **social, historical, spiritual, and moral significance**. At its heart, it is about **protection, purity, discipline, and brotherhood**. 

### **Key Traditions** 
- **Shravani Upakarma:** Five observances are performed – pledging to avoid sins, honouring ancestors, dedicating oneself to world welfare, giving the sacred thread (*yajnopavita*), and starting children’s education. 
- **Mythic Origin:** Scriptures say tying the Rakhi removes inauspiciousness and strengthens moral resolve. 

### **Symbolism & Purpose** 
- **Self & Nation’s Protection:** The “bond” restrains harmful impulses and binds life to divine discipline. 
- **Protection of Women:** Historically, Rakhis served as a pledge to protect women’s dignity — as in stories of Rani Padmini and Humayun. 
- **Symbol of True Dharma:** Reminds individuals to live with truth, peace, compassion, and forgiveness. 
- **Symbol of Purity:** Like the lotus, purity comes from detachment; a true Rakhi means a vow to safeguard the dignity of all women, not just one’s sister. 
- **Thread of Divine Love:** Represents God’s call for brotherhood, purity, and a spiritual vision of all souls as children of one Supreme Father. 

### **In Today’s Context** 
Unfortunately, the original purpose is fading — violence, dishonour of women, and selfishness continue. Both men and women feel insecure. Without **spiritual knowledge and self-control**, the Rakhi becomes only a ritual. 

The message: **Transform selfish thought into soul-consciousness**, see all as brothers and sisters, and live with discipline, moral courage, and universal respect. 

**Om Shanti.**