How to Tie a Rakhi to Your Brother: Step-by-Step Guide

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How to Tie a Rakhi to Brother A Step-by-Step Guide

Raksha Bandhan is a special festival that celebrates the sacred bond between siblings, and learning how to tie a rakhi to your brother the right way makes the day even more meaningful. Rooted in Indian tradition, this cherished occasion honours the unique relationship between brothers and sisters. Here is a simple, step-by-step guide on how to tie a rakhi to your brother.

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Step 1: Buy a Divine Rakhi

The first step is to buy a new rakhi for your brother - traditionally, a fresh rakhi is purchased every year. There are many types to choose from, such as Rudraksha Rakhi, Combo Rakhi, Bhaiya Bhabhi Rakhi, 7 Chakra Rakhi and Pyrite Stone Rakhi.

If you don't have time to visit a local rakhi store, you can order or send a rakhi online from Divine Hindu. You will also find a variety of rakhi gifts in one place, making shopping quick and easy.

Step 2: Prepare the Puja Thali

Prepare a puja thali for the rakhi ritual. This thali should include:

Five-piece brass pooja thali set from Divine Hindu
Five-piece brass pooja thali set.
  • A swastika symbol in the centre made with roli tikka or turmeric powder
  • The rakhi threads
  • Roli tikka (red powder)
  • Rice grains (akshat)
  • Sweets or chocolates
  • A diya (lamp)

The puja thali is an essential part of the rakhi-tying ceremony. Take any thali, make a swastika in the centre - a symbol of prosperity and good fortune - with roli tikka or turmeric powder, and decorate it as you like.

Step 3: Get Dressed for the Festival

Dress up for the occasion. Traditional clothes like kurta pyjamas, lehengas or sarees are often worn, but you can wear anything that makes you feel comfortable and festive.

Step 4: Light a Diya

A diya is an essential part of the rakhi-tying ceremony, representing positivity and the removal of darkness. Place a decorative or regular diya on your puja thali and add oil or ghee to light it during the ritual.

Step 5: Apply the Tikka

Now the actual rakhi-tying ceremony begins. Apply roli or kumkum tikka on your brother's forehead, then place a few grains of rice on the tikka as a symbol of prosperity and abundance.

If you don't have roli at home, you can make it quickly: mix a little turmeric with a few drops of lemon juice and a pinch of baking soda. Let the mixture dry under the sun for 1 to 2 days and it will turn red, ready to use.

Step 6: Perform the Aarti

Gather your brother in a comfortable spot, light the diya and perform his aarti. This step is optional and can be followed as per your beliefs and faith. Many sisters perform aarti as it is believed to remove any negative energy around the brother.

Step 7: Tie the Rakhi

How to tie the rakhi:

  1. Fold the rakhi thread in half to find the centre.
  2. Make a knot in the centre.
  3. Wrap the thread around your brother's wrist.
  4. Tie the ends together securely.

While tying the rakhi, say prayers or make wishes for your brother's health, happiness and success. If your brother is married, you can also tie a Divine Hindu rakhi for your sister-in-law (bhabhi).

Step 8: Feed Sweets

After tying the rakhi, offer your brother and sister-in-law some sweets, as it is customary to share sweets at such festivals. Many people also feed their siblings dry fruits or chocolates.

Step 9: Exchange Gifts

Finally, exchange gifts. Brothers usually give gifts or money to their sisters as a token of love and gratitude for their prayers. Nowadays, sisters also give gifts to their brothers - from chocolates and books to clothes and accessories.

Frequently Asked Questions

On which hand is the rakhi tied?

The rakhi is traditionally tied on the brother's right wrist, as the right hand is considered auspicious in Hindu rituals.

What should the puja thali contain for rakhi?

A rakhi puja thali should include roli or kumkum, rice grains (akshat), a diya, sweets and the rakhi thread itself.

Can a sister tie a rakhi to her sister-in-law?

Yes. Many sisters tie a special bhabhi rakhi (often called lumba rakhi) to their sister-in-law to include her in the celebration.

Ready to celebrate? Explore beautiful Rudraksha and combo rakhis in our Divine Hindu Rakhi collection and make this Raksha Bandhan truly memorable.