Raksha Bandhan 2024: The Auspicious Time to Tie Rakhi
Bhadra’s Significance
Raksha Bandhan, a festival symbolizing the deep bond of love and protection between brothers and sisters, is celebrated every year in August. On this day, sisters visit their brothers and tie a sacred thread, known as Rakhi, on their wrists, praying for their well-being and prosperity. In return, brothers pledge to protect their sisters throughout their lives.
When is Raksha Bandhan 2024?
This year, Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on Monday, August 19, 2024. To ensure that the bond between siblings remains strong and unbreakable, it is crucial to tie the Rakhi during an auspicious time. This year, the festival coincides with the presence of Bhadra, a time considered inauspicious for performing such rituals. Therefore, it is essential to be mindful of the correct time to tie Rakhi.
Auspicious Timing for Rakhi (Shubh Muhurat)
According to the Hindu calendar, the Purnima Tithi (full moon day) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Sawan begins at 3:04 AM on August 19, 2024, and ends at 11:55 PM the same night. Raksha Bandhan is traditionally observed on this day.
However, due to the presence of Bhadra, it is advised not to tie Rakhi in the morning. The auspicious time to tie Rakhi on August 19, 2024, is from 2:07 PM to 8:20 PM. For those who prefer to perform the ritual during Pradosh Kaal (evening time), the ideal time is from 6:57 PM to 9:10 PM.
Bhadra Timing on Raksha Bandhan 2024
On Raksha Bandhan this year, Bhadra will begin at 5:53 AM and end at 1:32 PM. The presence of Bhadra is associated with the underworld (Patal Lok), and it is traditionally considered inauspicious to perform significant rituals, such as tying Rakhi, during this period.
Why is Bhadra Inauspicious?
Religious texts advise against celebrating Raksha Bandhan during Bhadra. According to legend, Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, was tied a Rakhi by his sister during the Bhadra period, and it is believed that this led to his downfall at the hands of Lord Rama. Due to this belief, avoiding tying Rakhi during Bhadra is customary.
The Importance of the Raksha Sutra
The Raksha Sutra, or Rakhi, is more than just a thread. It is believed to protect against negativity and misfortune, bringing positive thoughts and peace of mind to the wearer. While Rakhi has evolved into a symbol of the brother-sister relationship, its purpose remains to strengthen this bond and protect against harm.
