Mumbai — Tomorrow, August 9, marks the celebration of Raksha Bandhan, the cherished Indian festival honoring the unbreakable bond between siblings. On this day, sisters tie a protective thread, or rakhi, on their brothers’ wrists, praying for their long life and prosperity, while brothers pledge to safeguard their sisters under all circumstances. This year, while the festival is free from the inauspicious Bhadra Kaal, the shadow of Rahu Kaal looms, making it critical to time the rakhi-tying ceremony carefully.
According to a prominent Mumbai astrologer cited by local sources, tying a rakhi during Rahu Kaal is considered inauspicious and should be strictly avoided. On August 9, Rahu Kaal will span from 9:07 AM to 10:47 AM, lasting approximately one hour and 40 minutes. Sisters are advised to perform the rakhi ceremony either before or after this period to ensure the ritual yields its intended positive outcomes.
The auspicious window, or Shubh Muhurat, for tying the rakhi on Raksha Bandhan 2025 will be from 5:47 AM to 1:24 PM, offering a generous seven-and-a-half-hour period for the ceremony. Performing the ritual within this timeframe is deemed highly favorable.
To observe the tradition correctly, sisters should prepare by bathing in the morning, invoking their chosen deity, and arranging a puja thali. The brother should be seated facing east or northeast. The sister should apply a tilak of roli and akshat on his forehead, tie the rakhi, and offer him sweets. The ritual concludes with performing the brother’s aarti and praying for his well-being.
By adhering to these guidelines and avoiding Rahu Kaal, sisters can ensure the Raksha Bandhan ceremony is conducted at the most auspicious time, preserving the sanctity and blessings of this heartfelt tradition.