Rakhi Across India: What Raksha Bandhan Is Called in Different Regions

What Is Rakhi Called in Different Parts of India?

Raksha Bandhan, or Rakhi, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India, marking the bond of love and protection between siblings. But did you know that while the sentiment remains the same, the name of the festival and the customs around it can vary across different regions of India? The diversity of our country is beautifully reflected in how this festival is celebrated.

Let’s take a journey through India and discover what Rakhi is called in different parts of the country and how each region adds its own unique flavor to this special day.

1. Raksha Bandhan (North India)

In most of North India, the festival is commonly known as Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi. The word “Raksha” means protection, and “Bandhan” means bond, symbolizing the promise of a brother to protect his sister.

In states like Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Bihar, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Sisters tie the sacred thread (rakhi) on their brothers’ wrists, and brothers, in return, offer gifts and a lifelong promise of protection.

2. Lumba Rakhi (Rajasthan)

In Rajasthan, an interesting variation of Rakhi is called Lumba Rakhi, where sisters tie rakhis not only on their brothers' wrists but also on the wrists of their sisters-in-law (bhabhi).

This symbolizes the love and protection of the entire family, acknowledging the important role sisters-in-law play in family unity and well-being. Lumba rakhis are often more decorative and designed like bangles, making them unique to the region.

 3. Gamha Purnima (Odisha)

In Odisha, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated as Gamha Purnima. This day not only celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters but also honors cows, which are considered sacred in Hinduism.

People in rural areas worship cows and tie rakhis to their horns as a way to seek blessings. Gamha Purnima is also marked by folk songs and cultural performances that bring the community together.

 4. Balev (Maharashtra, Karnataka)

In Maharashtra and Karnataka, the festival is called Balev. Brahmins in these regions perform the Balev ritual, which involves changing their sacred thread (Janeu), much like the Avani Avittam ceremony in South India.

The day is also an important occasion for family gatherings, where sisters tie rakhis to their brothers and celebrate the sibling bond.

A Celebration of Diversity

While Rakhi is celebrated under different names and with varying customs across India, the essence of the festival remains the same—it's a day to celebrate love, protection, and the enduring bond between siblings. Each region adds its own cultural significance to the day, making it a unique experience in every part of the country.

At Gladful, we celebrate this diversity and wish everyone a joyous Raksha Bandhan, no matter what you call it or how you celebrate it. Let this day be a reminder of the strength of family ties and the love that unites us all.