KARACHI: Members of Hindu community celebrated ‘Raksha Bandhan’ festival, which symbolizes the bond of love, protection, trust, and compassion among siblings in a family on Wednesday (30th of August, 2023).

In the Raksha Bandhan ritual, a sister ties a ‘sacred’ thread around her brother’s wrist, symbolically expressing her love for him and seeking his protection in return.

Sister puts a ‘Tilak’ on the forehead of her brother that is called ‘Ashirwad’ (blessing-prayer).

It may be recalled that a large number of Hindu families live in various parts of Pakistan.

The origin of the festival is unknown, though mythology is replete with stories that talk about the celebration.

One such story relates the bond of trust between King Bali and goddess Lakshmi:

After being defeated thrice, King Bali in what was a boon to Vishnu confined himself to his house.

Lakshmi, in order to get her husband back, tied a thread around King Bali’s wrist and in return, asked him for a token to mark the bond of compassion and faith.

King Bali couldn’t refuse and had to send Lord Vishnu to her.

Another story goes like this: One morning when Lord Krishna was flying a kite, he cut his finger with the kite string.

Draupadi, on seeing blood ran to him, tore a piece of cloth from her “sari” and tied it on his bleeding finger.

Lord Krishna was so touched by this act that he promised to protect her from all evils, forever, in return.

Hindu women wear new dresses and make-up to mark the festival.

They also take part in a function called ‘Arti Utarna’, which is a good wish for brothers.

Some sisters travel to other cities to tie the thread to their brothers.

On this occasion, sweets are distributed to share happiness and joys of the festival.

Newspakistan.tv