Essays

Fairs and festivals hold a special value in our life. Theirplace is permanent. We can miss our important choresbut not our festivals. Since they are the very life-breathof our religion and culture. They remind us of oursplendid past.

The festival of Raksha Bandhan is the festival of pure love and brotherhood. Sisters tie sacred threads to the Wrists of their brothers, thereby reminding them of theirgreat responsibility.

The brothers pledge to defend the honour of their sisters.This bond of love and affection is very unique. A piece of thread becomes a sacred promise, never to be snapped. It is renewed every year. This bond of love Takes a permanent shape.

All over India sisters—married or unmarried young orold visit their brothers. They tie the piece of thread. They offer sweets and pray for the long life of their brothers.In return, the brothers give them some token money.The idea is to exchange brother-sister love, a love whichis priceless.

This festival of brother-sister love has historical background. It is age-old. It has been celebrated for centuryestogether. It is said that Rani ICarmavati of Mewar sent'Rakhi' to the Mughal Emperor Humanyun, beseechinghim for her help. Humanyun acceded to the request. He helped her out of the crisis.

These days 'Rakhis' have become a roaring business.They are made at a high cost of cores of rupees. Many N shopkeeper's sole business is buying and selling ofrakhi. The bazaars are decked like a bride.

As far as the eyes can see, there are colorful and very expensive Rakhis. The other shops which have a quickbusiness are those of sweets. People throng them. Theypurchase sweets worth in gold. After Diwali, Raksha Bandhan is the greatest festival of the people. It strengthens the sacred bond of love and brotherhood. It must be observed in that spirit.