How Raksha Bandhan started is a question that you may be eager to know. On this page know the mythological and historical stories to know how Raksha Bandhan Started. Before that let’s know what is Raksha Bandhan.
Raksha Bandhan is a traditional Hindu festival celebrated to honour the bond between brothers and sisters. It has deep roots in Indian mythology and history. Its origins are associated with various stories and traditions.
Mythological Origins of Raksha Bandhan:
- Draupadi and Krishna: One of the most popular legends in Hindu mythology connects Raksha Bandhan with Lord Krishna and Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas. According to the Mahabharata, when Krishna cut his finger while handling sugarcane, Draupadi tore a piece of her sari and tied it around his finger to stop the bleeding. Moved by her gesture, Krishna promised to protect her whenever she needed help. This bond of protection is often cited as a symbol of Raksha Bandhan.
- Indra and Sachi: Another mythological story speaks of Indra, the king of gods, and his wife Sachi. During a battle between the gods and demons, Sachi tied a sacred thread (similar to a rakhi) around Indra’s wrist, praying for his safety and success in battle. Indra emerged victorious. This is believed to be one of the earliest references to the practice of tying a rakhi for protection.
- Yamuna and Yama: According to another legend, the river goddess Yamuna tied a rakhi to Yama, the god of death. Yama was so moved by the gesture that he granted her immortality and promised that any brother who had a rakhi tied to him by his sister would live a long life.
Historical Origins:
- Rani Karnavati and Emperor Humayun: In the historical context, the practice of Raksha Bandhan was reinforced by the story of Rani Karnavati. The widowed queen of Mewar asked for help from the Mughal Emperor Humayun. When Mewar was attacked by Bahadur Shah, Rani Karnavati sent a rakhi to Humayun, seeking her protection. Although Humayun was not able to reach on time. This gesture of seeking help and protection through the rakhi is remembered as an example of the festival’s deeper meaning.
- Alexander the Great and King Porus: Another historical anecdote mentions that when Alexander the Great invaded India in 326 BCE. Alexander’s wife Roxana sent a rakhi to the Indian king Porus, asking him not to harm her husband. During the battle, Porus is said to have refrained from killing Alexander, respecting the rakhi’s bond.
Conclusion:
Raksha Bandhan is both a religious and cultural festival. It reflects stories of protection, brotherhood, and familial love that are deeply ingrained in Indian mythology and history. These stories tell us how Raksha Bandhan Started. Its exact historical start date is difficult to pinpoint. But its association with these legends has made it a cherished festival for centuries.
