Raksha Bandhan is one of the most important celebrations for Hindus throughout the world. The word “rakshabandhan” means “tie of protection” and during the ceremony, sisters tie a protective thread around the right wrist of their brothers and brothers give gifts to their sisters while promising to always protect them.
Brother and sister, Mahika, 12, and Mihir Jogi, 3, along with their cousins, Neharia, 12, and Aadvan Dhanooklal, 5 – who are also siblings – honoured the special bond between them by tying a rakhi around the right wrists of their brothers. “It is important to honour and celebrate Raksha Bandhan and tie this protective thread for our brothers,” said Mahika Jogi. While tying a rakhi for her brother, Neharia told The Ladysmith Herald that this year’s celebrations come with extra responsibilities and those who are celebrating should keep in mind that Covid-19 is still a huge part of all our lives. “As much as we want to get together with other friends and family to celebrate this time, we must also learn to protect one another and not infect each other,” she said.
Both Neharia and Mahika reiterated that the significance of tying a rakhi is that of protection and people should know that staying at home and being safe is also part of protecting, not only your family members, but everyone you come into contact with. Hindus around the world will be celebrating Raksha Bandhan on Sunday, 22 August.
