Raksha Bandhan 2023: When can a rakhi be untied? Know its relation to Krishna Janmashtami

Raksha Bandhan, a cherished festival celebrated across India, is a time-honoured tradition that rejoices the bond shared between brothers and sisters. The festival, falling on August 30th this year, is marked by sisters tying a sacred thread, or rakhi, on their brother's right wrist as a symbol of protection and a promise of love. However, amid the festive fervour, a question often arises: when is the appropriate time to untie the rakhi from his hand?

2 things you need to know

• Sisters refrain from tying Rakhi during Bhadra Kaal.
• The propitious hour for Rakhi is post 9 pm on August 30.

A personal choice: Untying Rakhi in Hindu culture

In the Hindu culture, there is no stipulated time for removing rakhi. The brother is entrusted with the decision of when to take it off. This practice underscores the individuality of the bond, allowing the gesture of protection to continue for as long as he deems fit.

Embracing tradition: Maharashtrian Rakhi rituals 

Maharashtrian tradition suggests a specific duration for rakhi tying. According to this custom, the rakhi should be kept on for 15 days, culminating in the celebration of Pola, a festival occurring on the fifteenth day that involves honouring Lord Marbot Dev and venerating livestock, particularly bulls, in the Marathi farming community.

(There is no specific time to untie the Rakhi | Image: iStock)

In Hindu traditions, an opportunity arises eight days following Raksha Bandhan: Krishna Janmashtami. This auspicious day is regarded as an appropriate occasion to untie the rakhi. The rationale behind this lies in the legend of Lord Krishna and Draupadi, which plays an instrumental role in the genesis of Rakha Bandhan. Draupadi, in a selfless act, bound a piece of cloth around Lord Krishna’s finger when he was wounded. This marked the inception of their enduring bond and his vow to safeguard her under all circumstances.

Intriguingly, untying the rakhi on Krishna Janmashtami is not seen as an ill omen, due to the origins of the festival being intertwined with the same act. The narrative of Lord Krishna and Draupadi underscores the essence of Raksha Bandhan- the unbreakable connection between siblings, founded on unconditional love and unwavering support.

Raksha Bandhan aligns with the Hindu Panchang, observing the Purnima tithi of Shukla Paksha in the auspicious month of Shravana. This year, it will fall on August 30. The festivities commence early in the morning as both siblings bathe and don new attire. The sister prepares a rakhi thali containing a diya (lamp), the rakhi, the brother's favourite sweet, raw rice, and kumkum (vermilion).

This thali is placed before a deity in the temple. During the propitious moment, the sister applies a tilak on her brother's forehead, followed by rice. She then ties the rakhi onto his wrist, offering him a sweet. In return, the brother bestows a gift upon his sister and promises to protect her.