Jodhpur: Sunday was a busy day in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, as a throng of delighted people, mostly women and children, flocked to the stores one day before the festival of Raksha Bandhan, which is being celebrated on Monday (August 19).
On the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, sisters tie Rakhi or sacred thread on their brothers; wrists. Brothers, in turn, promise to protect their sisters.
The markets of Jodhpur are a sight to behold, with a diverse range of rakhis of different designs stocked to attract shoppers. From traditional to trendy, there’s something for everyone.
Shopkeepers had a line-up of special themed rakhis to cheer up the children. Some of them included Doraemon, Motu Patlu, and Mickey Mouse-themed rakhis.
For the grown-ups, ‘Thakur Ji’ and ‘Ram Darbar’ rakhis were available for purchase.
Women shoppers in most of the markets were seen busy purchasing rakhis and sweets for their brothers to celebrate Raksha Bandhan. With a smile and cheerful tone, they were “eagerly looking forward, like every year, to enjoy the special day by tying rakhi to their brother’s wrist and spending time together.”
Chanchal Tak, one of the shoppers, said: “This year, all the siblings in their family are planning to buy special sweets and celebrate the festival together.”
Ganpat Lal, who put up a rakhi stall at his shop, said: “This year, special rakhis featuring cartoon characters like Motu Patlu and Doraemon have been put on display to attract the children. There are also rakhis with lights. For adults, we have rakhis featuring Ram Darbar, Thakur Ji Maharaj, Om, and Swastik symbols.”
Meanwhile, the owner of Jodhpur’s popular Ramniwas Sweet Shop, who seemed to be having a busy day in catering to the surge in customers’ demand for sweetmeats ahead of Raksha Bandhan, said: “Jodhpur’s sweets are popular not only in India but also abroad. ‘Mirchi vadas’ and sweets like ‘Rabri ghevar’ are quite popular. For Raksha Bandhan, we have plans to sell sweetmeats prepared similar to the shape and design of rakhis.”
Another shopper, Saloni, said the children are usually the most excited for Raksha Bandhan.
“They eagerly wait for their aunt to arrive, and the whole family celebrates this festival with joy,” she said.
Significance of Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan, which translates to ‘the bond of protection, obligation, and care,’ is a deeply rooted tradition in Indian culture. Celebrated on the last day of Shravan, the Hindu lunar calendar month, this age-old festival continues to hold a significant place in our hearts, despite the changing times.
According to mythological tales, Lord Krishna accidentally cut his finger with his Sudarshan Chakra. Seeing this, Draupadi tore a portion of her sari to apply a bandage to his finger.
Lord Krishna was deeply touched by her gesture and promised to protect her, which he did when she faced public humiliation at the hands of Dushasan, one of the Kaurav brothers who tried to disrobe her.
With that promise began the celebration of Raksha Bandhan, which has since then continued for centuries.
For more updates Subscribe to Media Eye News
–IANS
