About Raksha Bandhan (Rakhi)
Raksha Bandhan, popularly called Rakhi, is a Hindu festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. The name means 'bond of protection'. A sister ties a decorative thread known as a rakhi around her brother's wrist, prays for his well-being, and in return the brother offers a gift and pledges to protect and support her. Over time it has grown into a wider celebration of love, duty, and family ties.
On the day, families gather as sisters perform an aarti, apply a tilak to the brother's forehead, tie the rakhi, and exchange sweets and gifts. It is observed widely across India and Nepal and among Hindu communities worldwide, with regional variations. The threads range from simple cotton strands to ornate beaded designs, and many people now send rakhis by post to relatives living far away.
Raksha Bandhan follows the Hindu lunar calendar, falling on the full moon day (Purnima) of the month of Shravana, so its date in the Gregorian calendar shifts each year, usually landing in August. Because of this, the exact day changes annually, and the live countdown above tracks the next date for you. You are welcome to add this countdown to your own page to share the anticipation with family and friends.
Upcoming dates
| 2026 | Friday, August 28, 2026next |
| 2027 | Tuesday, August 17, 2027 |
| 2028 | Saturday, August 5, 2028 |
FAQ
When is Raksha Bandhan this year and what date is it?
Raksha Bandhan follows the Hindu lunar calendar, so its Gregorian date changes every year and usually falls in August. The live countdown above shows the exact next date.
Why is Raksha Bandhan celebrated?
It honours the bond between brothers and sisters. The rakhi symbolises a sister's love and prayers, while the brother pledges lifelong protection and support in return.
How is Raksha Bandhan celebrated?
Sisters perform an aarti, apply a tilak, and tie a rakhi around the brother's wrist. Families then exchange sweets and gifts, and many send rakhis by post to distant relatives.
What is a rakhi?
A rakhi is the sacred thread a sister ties on her brother's wrist. It ranges from a simple cotton strand to an ornate beaded design and symbolises love and protection.