Raksha Bandhan: Bonding between brothers and sisters

Raksha Bandhan, a festival that epitomizes the sacred bond between brothers and sisters, holds a special place in the hearts of millions across India and the world. Celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravan (July-August), this festival is more than just a ritual; it is a day that reaffirms the familial ties and the enduring values of love, protection, and mutual respect. The term "Raksha Bandhan" translates to "the bond of protection," a theme that is intricately woven into the festival’s customs and traditions.

At its core, Raksha Bandhan is a celebration of sibling love. Sisters tie a rakhi, a sacred thread, around their brothers’ wrists, symbolizing their prayers for their brothers’ well-being, while brothers, in turn, vow to protect their sisters from all harm. This simple yet profound ritual has been passed down through generations, evolving over time to reflect the changing dynamics of society while retaining its essence of love and protection.

In this article, we will delve into the history, cultural significance, and modern-day celebrations of Raksha Bandhan. We will explore its regional variations, the impact of globalization, and how this beloved festival continues to adapt to the times while remaining a cornerstone of Indian cultural heritage.

Historical Origins of Raksha Bandhan

The origins of Raksha Bandhan are deeply rooted in Indian mythology and history, with several legends that highlight the importance of the rakhi as a symbol of protection and love.

1. Maa Laxmi and Raja Bali: Raja Bali was a powerful and pious demon king known for his immense devotion to Lord Vishnu. Due to his unwavering devotion, Lord Vishnu took the form of Vamana, a dwarf Brahmin, and asked Bali for three paces of land as alms. Bali, known for his generosity, agreed. Vamana then grew in size and covered the earth and heavens in two steps. For the third step, Bali offered his own head, thus fulfilling his promise. Impressed by Bali's devotion, Lord Vishnu granted him a boon to rule the netherworld (Patala) and promised to guard his kingdom. But this made Goddess Lakshmi, Vishnu's wife, miss her husband. On Raksha Bandhan, she dressed as a poor woman and went to Raja Bali. She tied a rakhi on his wrist, revealing who she really was. Bali was touched by her love and the meaning of the rakhi. He asked Lord Vishnu to return to Vaikuntha with Lakshmi and promised to always honor the bond of Raksha Bandhan. This story teaches us about the love and protection shared between siblings on this special day. This was the first incident of Raksha Bandhan.

2. The Tale of Yama and Yamuna: One of the most ancient stories associated with Raksha Bandhan is that of Yama, the God of Death, and his sister Yamuna. According to this legend, Yamuna longed to see her brother, Yama, who had not visited her in a long time. When Yama finally came to visit, Yamuna was overjoyed and performed a special ritual for his well-being, tying a sacred thread around his wrist. Touched by her love and devotion, Yama granted her a boon that any brother who receives a rakhi from his sister will be blessed with long life and protection. This story underscores the festival’s emphasis on love, protection, and the bond between siblings.

3. The Legend of Indra and Indrani: Another significant myth related to Raksha Bandhan is the story of Indra, the King of Gods, and his wife Indrani. During a fierce battle between the gods and demons, Indra was struggling to defeat the demon king, Bali. Concerned for her husband’s safety, Indrani sought the help of Lord Vishnu, who advised her to tie a sacred thread around Indra’s wrist for protection. This thread, imbued with divine power, gave Indra the strength to defeat Bali and secure victory. This legend highlights the protective power of the rakhi and its role as a symbol of divine strength and support.

4. The Story of Draupadi and Krishna: The story of Draupadi and Krishna is one of the most well-known tales linked to Raksha Bandhan. According to the Mahabharata, when Krishna injured his finger, Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, tore a piece of her saree to bandage his wound. In return, Krishna promised to protect Draupadi whenever she needed him. This promise was fulfilled during the infamous disrobing incident, where Krishna miraculously provided an endless supply of cloth to protect Draupadi’s honor. This story symbolizes the deep bond of protection and care that Raksha Bandhan represents.

5. Rani Karnavati and Emperor Humayun: In a more historical context, the story of Rani Karnavati of Mewar and the Mughal Emperor Humayun is often cited in relation to Raksha Bandhan. Facing an imminent threat from Bahadur Shah, Rani Karnavati sent a rakhi to Emperor Humayun, seeking his protection. Despite their political differences, Humayun honored the rakhi and came to her aid, illustrating the power of the rakhi as a bond that transcends even the deepest divisions.

Some stories are related to Mahabharat where Abhimanyu was tied sotra from Maa Kunti but Lord Krishna took the mouse(chuha) roopa and made it loose.

On suggestion of Lord Krishna Pandavas tied raksha Sotra to soldiers for winning the battle.

These stories, while rooted in mythology and history, have played a crucial role in shaping the cultural and spiritual significance of Raksha Bandhan. They remind us that the festival is not just about the rituals but also about the values of love, protection, and unity that it embodies.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India and by Indian communities around the world. It is a festival that transcends religious and regional boundaries, uniting people in their shared reverence for the bond between brothers and sisters.

1. The Symbolism of the Rakhi:The rakhi, a simple thread adorned with beads, stones, or other decorations, is the most important symbol of Raksha Bandhan. It is not merely an ornament but a powerful amulet of protection, carrying with it the prayers and blessings of a sister for her brother’s well-being. The act of tying the rakhi is a ritual that symbolizes the sister’s wish for her brother’s long life and happiness, while the brother’s acceptance of the rakhi represents his commitment to protect and support his sister.

In some regions, the rakhi is also tied on friends, neighbors, or even deities, reflecting the festival’s broader significance as a symbol of love and protection beyond just familial bonds.

2. Spiritual Meaning in Hinduism:In Hinduism, Raksha Bandhan is considered an auspicious occasion, with deep spiritual meaning. The festival is celebrated on the full moon day of Shravan, a month that is sacred in the Hindu calendar. The rituals performed during Raksha Bandhan, including the tying of the rakhi, the exchange of gifts, and the offering of prayers, are all imbued with spiritual significance.

The rakhi is often tied after a prayer ceremony, where the sister performs an aarti (a ritual of worship) and applies a tilak (a mark) on her brother’s forehead. This ritual not only signifies the sister’s prayers for her brother’s well-being but also invokes divine blessings for both of them. The rakhi is thus seen as a protective charm that safeguards the brother from harm and misfortune.

3. Reinforcement of Family Values:Raksha Bandhan is a festival that reinforces the importance of family values in Indian culture. It is a day when families come together to celebrate the bond between brothers and sisters, strengthening their ties of love and affection. The festival serves as a reminder of the duties and responsibilities that siblings have towards each other, and the importance of maintaining these relationships throughout life.

In many families, Raksha Bandhan is also an occasion for resolving conflicts and renewing commitments. It is a day when differences are set aside, and the focus is on love, unity, and togetherness. This aspect of the festival highlights the role of Raksha Bandhan in fostering harmony and strengthening the social fabric.

4. Rituals and Customs:The rituals and customs associated with Raksha Bandhan vary across regions, but the central theme remains the same—the celebration of the bond between brothers and sisters. The day typically begins with the sister preparing a thali (a plate) with a rakhi, sweets, diya (lamp), and other ritual items. She then ties the rakhi around her brother’s wrist while reciting prayers for his well-being.

In return, the brother gives his sister a gift as a token of his love and promises to protect her. The exchange of sweets is an important part of the celebration, symbolizing the sweetness of the sibling relationship. In some regions, the brother also ties a rakhi on his sister’s wrist, signifying that the bond of protection is mutual.

The rituals of Raksha Bandhan are simple yet profound, and they serve to deepen the emotional connection between brothers and sisters. They also provide an opportunity for families to come together, celebrate their bonds, and create lasting memories.

Traditional Celebrations Across India

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated with great fervor across India, but the customs and traditions associated with the festival can vary significantly from one region to another. These regional variations add to the richness and diversity of the festival, making it a truly pan-Indian celebration.

1. Northern India:In northern India, particularly in states like Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Rajasthan, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The day is marked by the tying of the rakhi, the exchange of gifts, and the preparation of special festive meals. In Rajasthan, it is common for women to tie rakhis on the wrists of their brothers-in-law as well, signifying the extension of the bond beyond immediate family.

In Punjab, the festival is also associated with the preparation of sweet dishes like kheer and phirni. In some parts of the region, Raksha Bandhan coincides with the festival of Teej, adding to the festive spirit.

2. Western India:In Gujarat and Maharashtra, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated with unique regional customs. In Maharashtra, the festival is known as Narali Purnima, which marks the beginning of the new fishing season. On this day, fishermen offer coconuts to the sea as a mark of respect and seek protection from the elements. The rakhi is tied after these rituals, and the day is celebrated with much joy and festivity.

In Gujarat, Raksha Bandhan is also associated with the festival of Pavitropana, where devotees tie threads of cotton on the Shivalinga (a representation of Lord Shiva) as a mark of devotion. The rakhi ceremony is performed after this ritual, and the day is celebrated with the exchange of sweets and gifts.

3. Eastern India:In West Bengal and Odisha, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated as Jhulan Purnima, which is associated with the worship of Lord Krishna and Radha. The festival is marked by the tying of rakhis, as well as the decoration of swings with flowers and the performance of devotional songs. In these regions, the festival has a strong religious and cultural significance, with the rakhi symbolizing the bond of love between siblings as well as devotion to the divine.

In some parts of Odisha, Raksha Bandhan is also associated with the ritual of tying a thread around the wrist of the village deity, seeking protection and blessings for the entire community.

4. Southern India:In southern India, particularly in states like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, Raksha Bandhan is known as Avani Avittam or Upakarma. The festival is primarily observed by the Brahmin community, where men change their sacred thread (yajnopavita) on this day, signifying a renewal of their spiritual vows.

The tying of rakhis is also part of the celebration, with sisters performing the ritual for their brothers, followed by the exchange of gifts and sweets. In some parts of Tamil Nadu, the festival is also associated with the worship of Lord Vishnu, and special prayers are offered for the well-being of siblings.

These regional variations in the celebration of Raksha Bandhan highlight the diversity of Indian culture, where the same festival is observed in different ways, reflecting the unique traditions and customs of each region.

Raksha Bandhan in Modern Times

In modern times, Raksha Bandhan has evolved to reflect the changing dynamics of society. While the essence of the festival remains the same, the way it is celebrated has undergone significant changes, influenced by urbanization, globalization, and technological advancements.

1. Urban Celebrations and Changing Dynamics:In urban areas, Raksha Bandhan has become a more elaborate affair, with a greater emphasis on the exchange of gifts and the use of technology to stay connected. Brothers and sisters who live far apart often send rakhis and gifts through courier services or online platforms. The festival has also become more commercialized, with markets flooded with a wide variety of rakhis, gifts, and sweets.

Despite these changes, the emotional significance of the festival remains intact. Raksha Bandhan continues to be a day when families come together, whether in person or virtually, to celebrate their bond of love and protection.

2. Influence of Globalization and Digitalization:Globalization and digitalization have had a profound impact on the way Raksha Bandhan is celebrated. The rise of social media and e-commerce platforms has made it easier for people to send rakhis and gifts across the world. Virtual rakhis and e-greetings have become popular, especially among the younger generation, who use technology to bridge the distance between them and their loved ones.

The festival has also gained international recognition, with Indian communities abroad celebrating Raksha Bandhan with the same enthusiasm as in India. This global celebration of Raksha Bandhan reflects the festival’s universal appeal and its ability to bring people together, regardless of geographical boundaries.

3. Impact of the Pandemic on Celebrations:The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on Raksha Bandhan celebrations, with many families unable to gather in person due to travel restrictions and social distancing measures. However, the festival adapted to these challenges, with virtual celebrations becoming the norm. Families connected through video calls, and rakhis and gifts were sent via online platforms, ensuring that the spirit of the festival remained alive even in difficult times.

The pandemic also led to a greater emphasis on sustainability, with many opting for eco-friendly rakhis made from natural materials. This trend towards conscious consumption is likely to continue, reflecting a growing awareness of environmental issues among the younger generation.

4. Eco-friendly and Designer Rakhis:In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards eco-friendly and designer rakhis, reflecting a shift in consumer preferences. Eco-friendly rakhis, made from materials like seeds, cotton, and recycled paper, have gained popularity as people become more conscious of their environmental impact.

Designer rakhis, often customized with names, initials, or special messages, have also become a popular choice, adding a personal touch to the festival. These trends highlight the evolving nature of Raksha Bandhan, where traditional customs are being adapted to suit modern lifestyles and values.

5. Raksha Bandhan as a Tool for Social and Communal Harmony:Raksha Bandhan has also emerged as a tool for promoting social and communal harmony. In many parts of India, the festival is celebrated by tying rakhis on people from different communities, castes, and religions, symbolizing the bonds of unity and brotherhood. This practice has gained significance in recent years, as a way to promote peace and solidarity in a diverse and often divided society.

Raksha Bandhan has also been used as a platform to raise awareness about social issues, with rakhis being tied on public figures, soldiers, and even animals, to highlight causes such as women’s empowerment, animal rights, and environmental conservation.

Raksha Bandhan Celebrations Abroad

As Indian communities have spread across the globe, Raksha Bandhan has become a festival of international significance. The Indian diaspora celebrates Raksha Bandhan with the same fervor as in India, while also adapting the festival to their new cultural environments.

1. United States:In the United States, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated by the Indian community with much enthusiasm. Indian cultural associations often organize Raksha Bandhan events, where people come together to celebrate the festival with traditional rituals, cultural performances, and feasting. The festival is also marked by the exchange of rakhis and gifts among friends and family members, both in person and through online platforms.

In recent years, Raksha Bandhan has gained wider recognition in the U.S., with schools, universities, and workplaces organizing events to celebrate the festival and promote cultural diversity. This reflects the growing influence of the Indian community in the country and the increasing acceptance of Indian cultural traditions.

2. United Kingdom:In the United Kingdom, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated by the Indian diaspora, particularly in cities with large Indian populations like London, Leicester, and Birmingham. The festival is marked by the tying of rakhis, the exchange of gifts, and the preparation of traditional Indian sweets. Many families also visit temples to offer prayers and seek blessings for their siblings.

In addition to family celebrations, Raksha Bandhan is also observed at a community level, with cultural associations and temples organizing events and gatherings. These celebrations provide an opportunity for the Indian community to come together and celebrate their cultural heritage, while also promoting the values of love and protection that Raksha Bandhan represents.

3. Canada:In Canada, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated by the Indian community with great enthusiasm. The festival is marked by the tying of rakhis, the exchange of gifts, and the preparation of special meals. Many families also organize get-togethers and parties to celebrate the festival, creating a festive atmosphere that reflects the importance of Raksha Bandhan in Indian culture.

In recent years, Raksha Bandhan has also gained recognition in Canadian schools and universities, where students of Indian origin organize events to celebrate the festival and educate their peers about its significance. This reflects the growing influence of the Indian community in Canada and the increasing acceptance of Indian cultural traditions.

4. Australia and New Zealand:In Australia and New Zealand, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated by the Indian diaspora, particularly in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, and Wellington. The festival is marked by the tying of rakhis, the exchange of gifts, and the preparation of traditional Indian sweets. Many families also visit temples to offer prayers and seek blessings for their siblings.

In addition to family celebrations, Raksha Bandhan is also observed at a community level, with cultural associations and temples organizing events and gatherings. These celebrations provide an opportunity for the Indian community to come together and celebrate their cultural heritage, while also promoting the values of love and protection that Raksha Bandhan represents.

5. Middle East and Africa:In the Middle East and Africa, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated by the Indian diaspora, particularly in countries like the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, and Kenya. The festival is marked by the tying of rakhis, the exchange of gifts, and the preparation of special meals. Many families also organize get-togethers and parties to celebrate the festival, creating a festive atmosphere that reflects the importance of Raksha Bandhan in Indian culture.

In recent years, Raksha Bandhan has also gained recognition in schools and universities, where students of Indian origin organize events to celebrate the festival and educate their peers about its significance. This reflects the growing influence of the Indian community in the region and the increasing acceptance of Indian cultural traditions.

The Sweet Delights of Raksha Bandhan

Sweets are an integral part of Raksha Bandhan celebrations, symbolizing the sweetness of the sibling bond and the joy of the festival. The exchange of sweets is a tradition that adds a special touch to the festivities, with families preparing or purchasing a variety of traditional Indian sweets to mark the occasion.

1. Traditional Sweets Associated with Raksha Bandhan:Several traditional Indian sweets are associated with Raksha Bandhan, each with its own unique flavor and significance. These sweets are often prepared at home, adding a personal touch to the celebrations, or purchased from sweet shops, which offer a wide variety of options.

2. Kaju Katli:Kaju Katli, a popular Indian sweet made from cashew nuts and sugar, is a favorite during Raksha Bandhan. Its rich, melt-in-the-mouth texture and delicate flavor make it a perfect choice for the festival. Kaju Katli is often shaped into diamond-like pieces and garnished with silver foil, adding to its visual appeal.

3. Gulab Jamun:Gulab Jamun, a sweet made from milk solids and soaked in sugar syrup, is another popular choice for Raksha Bandhan. Its soft, spongy texture and sweet, syrupy flavor make it a hit among both children and adults. Gulab Jamun is often served warm, adding a comforting touch to the celebrations.

4. Rasgulla:Rasgulla, a sweet made from cottage cheese and soaked in sugar syrup, is a favorite in eastern India, particularly in West Bengal and Odisha. Its soft, spongy texture and mildly sweet flavor make it a refreshing choice for Raksha Bandhan, particularly in the hot summer months.

5. Barfi and Laddoos:Barfi and laddoos are traditional Indian sweets that are often associated with Raksha Bandhan. Barfi, made from condensed milk and sugar, comes in a variety of flavors, including pistachio, almond, and coconut. Laddoos, made from gram flour, sugar, and ghee, are a favorite among children and are often prepared in large quantities for the festival.

These traditional sweets add a special touch to Raksha Bandhan celebrations, making the day even more joyful and memorable.

6. Regional Specialties:In addition to the popular sweets mentioned above, Raksha Bandhan is also associated with several regional specialties, each reflecting the unique culinary traditions of different parts of India.

In Maharashtra, for example, Puran Poli, a sweet flatbread filled with jaggery and lentils, is a popular choice for Raksha Bandhan. In West Bengal, Sandesh, a sweet made from cottage cheese and flavored with cardamom or saffron, is often prepared for the festival. In South India, Payasam, a sweet dish made from milk, rice, and jaggery, is a traditional choice for Raksha Bandhan.

These regional specialties add to the diversity of Raksha Bandhan celebrations, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of India.

7. Modern Twists on Traditional Sweets:In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards modern twists on traditional sweets, reflecting changing consumer preferences and the influence of global culinary trends. Fusion desserts, which combine traditional Indian sweets with international flavors and techniques, have become popular choices for Raksha Bandhan.

For example, Kaju Katli Cheesecake, Gulab Jamun Trifle, and Rasgulla Tiramisu are modern takes on traditional Indian sweets that have gained popularity in recent years. These fusion desserts add a creative touch to Raksha Bandhan celebrations, while still honoring the traditional flavors and ingredients of Indian sweets.

Raksha Bandhan in Popular Culture

Raksha Bandhan has been a recurring theme in Indian literature, folklore, and popular culture, reflecting its deep cultural significance and the emotional resonance of the sibling bond.

1. Depictions in Indian Literature and Folklore:Raksha Bandhan has been depicted in numerous works of Indian literature, from ancient texts like the Mahabharata to modern novels and short stories. In these works, the festival is often portrayed as a symbol of love, protection, and the unbreakable bond between brothers and sisters.

Folklore and oral traditions also play a significant role in the celebration of Raksha Bandhan, with stories of sibling devotion and sacrifice being passed down from generation to generation. These stories serve to reinforce the cultural values associated with the festival and provide a rich source of inspiration for artists and writers.

2. Representation in Bollywood Films and TV Shows:Raksha Bandhan has been a popular theme in Bollywood films and TV shows, with numerous movies and serials depicting the festival and its rituals. In these representations, Raksha Bandhan is often portrayed as a celebration of family values, with scenes of sisters tying rakhis on their brothers and the exchange of gifts and sweets.

Some iconic Bollywood songs, such as "Phoolon Ka Taron Ka" from the movie Hare Rama Hare Krishna,"Bhaiya Mere Rakhi Ke Bandhan Ko Nibhana" from Chhoti Bahen and “Dhado se bandha” from Raksha Bandhan , have become synonymous with Raksha Bandhan, capturing the emotional essence of the festival and the sibling bond.

3. Raksha Bandhan Songs and Their Significance:Raksha Bandhan songs are an important part of the festival’s cultural expression, with many Bollywood songs and folk songs dedicated to the celebration of the sibling bond. These songs are often played during the rakhi ceremony, adding to the emotional resonance of the moment.

In addition to Bollywood songs, traditional folk songs celebrating Raksha Bandhan are sung in many parts of India. These songs, often passed down through generations, reflect the regional customs and traditions associated with the festival and add a cultural richness to the celebrations.

4. Artistic Expressions:Raksha Bandhan has also been a popular theme in Indian art, with numerous paintings, sculptures, and crafts depicting the festival and its rituals. These artistic expressions often capture the emotional bond between brothers and sisters, as well as the cultural significance of the festival.

In addition to traditional art forms, Raksha Bandhan has also inspired modern artists and designers, who create innovative and contemporary representations of the festival. From designer rakhis to Raksha Bandhan-themed art exhibitions, the festival continues to inspire creativity and artistic expression.

The Future of Raksha Bandhan

As society continues to evolve, so too will the celebration of Raksha Bandhan. While the festival’s core values of love, protection, and familial bonds will remain unchanged, the way it is celebrated will continue to adapt to the changing times.

1. Adapting to Changing Times:In the future, Raksha Bandhan will likely continue to evolve in response to societal changes, technological advancements, and environmental concerns. The rise of digital platforms and e-commerce will make it easier for people to stay connected and celebrate the festival, even if they are far apart.

The trend towards eco-friendly and sustainable celebrations is also likely to continue, with more people opting for environmentally friendly rakhis, gifts, and decorations. This reflects a growing awareness of environmental issues and a desire to celebrate the festival in a way that is in harmony with nature.

2. Promoting Gender Equality and Inclusivity:Raksha Bandhan has the potential to play a significant role in promoting gender equality and inclusivity. While the festival traditionally celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters, it can also be adapted to include all kinds of relationships based on love and protection, regardless of gender or familial ties.

For example, some families may choose to celebrate Raksha Bandhan by tying rakhis on friends, colleagues, or even strangers, as a symbol of solidarity and mutual protection. This inclusive approach to the festival can help to break down gender stereotypes and promote a more egalitarian society.

3. Globalization and the Spread of Raksha Bandhan:As the Indian diaspora continues to grow and spread across the globe, Raksha Bandhan will likely gain even more recognition and acceptance in different cultural contexts. The festival’s universal themes of love, protection, and familial bonds make it a celebration that can resonate with people from all walks of life, regardless of cultural or geographical boundaries.

In the future, Raksha Bandhan may become a truly global festival, celebrated by people of all backgrounds as a symbol of love, unity, and protection.

4. Preserving Tradition Amidst Modernity:While Raksha Bandhan will continue to evolve, it is also important to preserve the traditional customs and rituals associated with the festival. These traditions are a vital part of India’s cultural heritage, and they provide a sense of continuity and connection to the past.

As the festival adapts to modern times, efforts should be made to preserve its traditional aspects, ensuring that future generations can continue to celebrate Raksha Bandhan in a way that honors its rich cultural legacy.

5. Role of Media and Technology in Shaping the Future:The role of media and technology in shaping the future of Raksha Bandhan cannot be overstated. The rise of social media platforms, e-commerce websites, and digital communication tools has already transformed the way the festival is celebrated, and this trend is likely to continue.

In the future, media and technology will play an even greater role in promoting Raksha Bandhan, both within India and globally. From virtual rakhi ceremonies to online Raksha Bandhan events, the festival will continue to be celebrated in new and innovative ways, reflecting the changing dynamics of society.

Some Movies which shows the bonding among brothers sisters

1971 movie Hare Ram Hare Krishna directed, written, and produced by Dev Anand, casting Zeenat Aman, Mumtaz., Dev Anand, and Prem Chopra was a hit film of that time. The movie depicts a family where a couple separates resulting the separation of brother Prashant and sister Jasbir who met after a long year where Prashant finds her but instead of Jasbir, she is now Janice who doesn't anything remember about her childhood as well as she deeped in alcohol and drugs. This movie also spreads an anti-drug message.

Romantic Thriller movie of 1980 Karz was one of the blockbusters of its time casting Rishi Kapoor, Tina Munim, Simi Garewal, Raj Kiran, Pran, Mac Mohan,  Pinchoo Kapoor, Durga Khote, and Abha Dhulia. Karz draws a story about a man named Ravi Verma who was murdered by his golddigger wife Kamini and reborn again as Monty. Who coincidently went to Ravi Verma's village where his previous birth mother and sister are facing the worst condition of poverty for which Monty pledged to destroy Kamini.

Featuring Salman Khan, Jackie Shroff, Rambha, Ashwini Bhave, and many more, Bandhan is a romantic action movie that portrays the true relationship of brother and sister and their love for each other. The story revolves around Suraj who lives with his sister and brother-in-law and protects them from some social evils who want to destroy his family. This movie was released in 1998 directed by K Murali Mohana Rao and Rajesh Malik, written by Manoj Kumar, and produced by Narendra Bajaj.

Hum Saath Saath Hain is the most evergreen family drama movie in Indian cinema, which still makes its place in people's hearts. Directed and written by Sooraj R Barjatya, produced by Ajit Kumar Barjatya, Kamal Kumar Barjatya, and Rajkumar Barjatya. Starring Salman Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Mahnish Bahl, Sonali Bendre, Tabu, Karishma Kapoor, Neelam, Alok Nath, and Shakti Kapoor. It shows the strength of true love, bond, and belief in family which helps to face difficult circumstances.

Directed by Mansoor Khan and written by Neeraj Vora, Josh is a romantic action movie of 2000, featuring Shahrukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai, Chandrachur Singh, and Sharad Kapoor. Josh is based on a musical movie West Slide Story, its story is about the fight between two rival gangs and the true bond of brother and sister. Where both of them understand each other.

Fiza crime thriller movie of 2000 starring Hrithik Roshan, Karishma Kapoor, and Jaya Bachchan is the story of a sister who journeyed for her brother who was lost during the 1993 Bombay riots. Shows the struggle to find her brother, and her love and care for her brother. This movie is a perfect combination of patriotism and sibling love where she kills her brother who became a terrorist for her country despite her infinite love for her brother.

One of the most iconic movies of Salman Khan's Garv: Pride and Honour of 2004, directed and written by Puneet Issar, starring Salman Khan, Arbaaz Khan, Amrish Puri, Shilpa Shetty and Farida Jalal. Is a story of a well-reputed police officer named Arjuna Ranawat who is imprisioned for killing 18 people's in CM house for saving his sister from molestation and rape. This shows the true bond of brother and sister where the brother always stands for her sister's wellness.

Iqbal is a sports drama movie directed and written by Nagesh Kukunoor, casting  Naseeruddin Shah, Shreyas Talpade, Girish Karnad, Yatin Karyekar, Shweta Basu Prasad. Iqbal is the story of a boy named Iqbal who wants to become a cricketer and play for India but discouraged by his father who is a farmer and understands Iqbal's dream is impossible and makes him work on the farm. Whereas his sister Khadija helps her to improve his skills and always tries to help him at each place at every stage. This movie is a true example of the love and care of brother and sister.

Chup Chup Ke is a comedy-drama movie originally named Khatta Meetha directed by Priyadarshan, written by Rafi Mecartin, and produced by Ronnie Screwvala. Starring Shahid Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor, Suniel Shetty, Om Puri, Paresh Rawal, Rajpal Yadav, Shakti Kapoor, Anupam Kher, Neha Dhupia and Manoj Joshi. This multi-star cast movie narrates the story of Jeetu who tries to commit suicide due to several debts but caught in a fishing net and saved. Later he meets a mute girl and falls in love with her and accepts to make a promise to her brother who wants to see her sister always happy.

Like every brother, here Amit always cares for her sister Aditi, who is quite aggressive and always fights for Jai. who is best friend of Aditi but not liked by Amit. Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na is a romantic comedy movie starring Imran Khan, Genellia D'souza, Prateik Babbar, Manjari Fadnis, Ayaz Khan, Arbaaz Khan, Sohail Khan, Paresh Rawal, Ratna Pathak Shah and Naseeruddin Shah. Directed and written by Abbas Tyrewala and produced by Aamir Khan and Mansoor Khan.

Khatta Meetha is a comedy based on Polatical Sattire, written and directed by Priyadarshan casting Akshay Kumar, Trisha, Kulbhushan Kharbanda, Rajpal Yadav, Johny Lever, Aruna Irani, Urvashi Sharma and many more. This multi-starring film of 2010 sketches the life of a contractor named Sachin Tichkule whose family loses faith in him except for his younger sister who always loves her brother and understands him and supports him.

Bhag Mikha Bhag a sports drama movie based on the life of the Late Mikha Singh, an Indian athlete the only athlete who won gold medal in the 400-meter race in the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games. This biography-based movie reflects the incidents of the partition of India in 1947, this movie also describes the beautiful bond of a younger brother and elder sister who love each other and understand one another. Casting Farhan Akhtar, Divya Dutta, Sonam Kapoor, Pavan Malhotra, Dalip Tahil and Rebecca Breeds.  

Randeep Hooda and Aishwarya Rai's movie Sarbjit is based on the biography of Sarabjit Singh who was caught by the Pakistan army and ordered to be sentenced to death in 1991 and then imprisoned him and tortured brutally. It shows the sacred relation and bond of blood where a sister fought for her brother at any cost. It is directed by Omung Kumar, and written by Utkarshini Vashishtha.

A family comedy-drama movie Rakha Bandhan with a great social message about the victimization of women for dowry. Directed by Anand L. Rai, written by Himanshu Sharma and  Kanika Dhillon. Featuring Akshay Kumar, Bhumi Pednekar, Sadia Khateeb, Sahejmeen Kaur, Smrithi Srikanth, and Deepika Khanna. This story is about 4 sisters and a brother, who have taken a vow that they will marry themselves only after all four of them get married.  Because of this, he has to face a lot of difficulties.  This movie shows the mutual love and bonding of these siblings.

In conclusion, Raksha Bandhan is a festival that holds deep cultural and emotional significance for millions of people. It is a celebration of love, protection, and familial bonds, and it has the power to bring people together, both within families and across communities. As the festival continues to evolve, it will remain a cherished tradition, reflecting the enduring values of Indian culture and the universal appeal of the sibling bond.