Raksha Bandhan

The celebration of Raksha Bandhan is a major event in any Hindu household. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm on the day of the full moon in the month of Shravan according to the Hindu calendar. It symbolizes the eternal love between brother and sister. The day begins with prayers followed by girls tying a ‘rakhi’ (sacred thread) on the wrists of their brothers. Vermilion is applied on the brother’s forehead and he is given sweets by the sister and wished happiness and prosperity.. He in turn promises  to protect his sisters and safeguard them at all times. It is customary for brothers to buy gifts for their sisters on this joyous occasion. Shops are decorated and do brisk business on  this occasion especially mithai (sweetmeat) shops. People throng the market heading mainly to  garment shops and jewelry stores. Many gift stores offer special rakhi discounts. It is a day of revelry and getting together of families.