Raksha Bandhan, one of India’s most beloved festivals, is more than just a ritual—it’s a celebration of the deep bond between siblings that has resonated through generations. I’m fascinated by how this timeless festival is not only rooted in rich mythology but also beautifully captured in various forms of art on Mojarto.
This time of the year, this festival marks the peculiar importance of family and the unique bond between siblings in Indian culture. Traditionally, Raksha Bandhan involves a sister tying a rakhi—a sacred thread—around her brother’s wrist, symbolising a vow of protection and care. This tradition, however, has evolved significantly over time, making it more inclusive and adaptable to modern lifestyles.
With the rise of globalisation and the widespread Indian diaspora, Raksha Bandhan has crossed geographical boundaries. Siblings living miles apart now connect via video calls, and rakhis are sent online, ensuring that the celebration continues regardless of distance. Moreover, the festival has expanded beyond biological siblings to include anyone who shares a bond of trust and affection, making it a more inclusive and widely celebrated occasion. This adaptability keeps its significance more relevant today, allowing it to resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds.
The Many Indian Myths
The origins of Raksha Bandhan are steeped in mythology, with several stories that illustrate the profound significance of this festival. One of the most famous tales comes from the Mahabharata, where Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, ties a strip of cloth around Lord Krishna’s wrist to stop his bleeding. In return, Krishna promises to protect her, a vow he honours during her time of need. This story beautifully encapsulates the essence of Raksha Bandhan—a bond of protection and love. Another significant myth involves Yama, the god of death, and his sister Yamuna. According to legend, when Yamuna ties a rakhi on Yama’s wrist, he is so moved by the gesture that he grants her immortality, symbolising the festival’s theme of eternal protection and the enduring bond between siblings.
A historical narrative that further highlights the importance of Raksha Bandhan is the story of Queen Karnavati and Mughal Emperor Humayun. Facing the threat of invasion, Queen Karnavati of Chittor sent a rakhi to Humayun, asking for his protection. Despite their religious differences, Humayun responded, coming to her aid. This story showcases the rakhi as a symbol of solidarity and trust that transcends familial, cultural, and religious boundaries.
How Art Celebrates Raksha Bandhan
Over the centuries, artists have beautifully captured the essence of Raksha Bandhan, illustrating the deep sibling bond through their unique creations. This Raksha Bandhan, Mojarto invites you to explore a curated selection of artworks that reflect this special relationship. Discover paintings that celebrate the festival and consider them as a unique gift for your siblings.
Mojarto offers a glimpse into how different artists interpret Raksha Bandhan, showcasing various artistic styles that express themes of love and protection. Find inspiration in these artworks and choose a meaningful present that embodies the festival’s spirit, making your celebration even more memorable.
In this calming watercolour painting, Ria Das beautifully captures the joy of companionship, reflecting what siblings share through life’s ups and downs. Even in moments when everything seems lost, the simple yet profound support of a sibling—just being there and offering their presence—can overcome life’s challenges. The image of two children beaming with joy perfectly represents the bond siblings should share. In a world where relationships can be fragile, this painting reminds you to cherish and value those closest to you.
Mutual love thrives despite our frequent disagreements. Ultimately, we rest under one roof, fully aware that another quarrel awaits us tomorrow. This bond is never transactional; instead, it endures through our myriad of conflicts. Reflect on your countless arguments with your siblings—no matter how many there are, the bond remains. The act of forgiveness often occurs in the subtle nuances of daily life, sometimes even without a formal apology. There exists an unique understanding between siblings, an almost unbreakable vow that transcends words. While not to be likened to any magical realm, this connection holds a pure and enchanting essence of its own. Sandip Daptari’s artwork beautifully captures this sense of nostalgia, serving as a testament to the profound grip of our childhood memories. As we journey through time, the artwork resonates with the timeless joy and enduring bond shared among siblings, reflecting the lasting impact of these cherished moments.
Tapan Madkikar employs printmaking techniques to capture the world through his artistic lens. In his artwork “Bali and Shambhu,” he explores a relationship between two individuals, mirroring the joy and bond often seen between siblings. As Madkikar himself describes, this piece reflects the essence of human connections: “In our life, we come across a number of people. With some, we get along so well, with others, we don’t. I feel that when you start knowing people from your heart, you form a genuine connection.” This sentiment resonates with the pure and genuine bond we share with our siblings, evoking the same joy seen in the image of a girl carrying her sibling or friend on her back. It serves as a poignant reminder that family ties are incredibly special, but there are also those who, though unrelated by blood, become like family and are equally indispensable in our lives.
Another evocative painting by Ria Das beautifully captures the themes of love, care, and innocent joy. The artwork portrays a big sister tenderly interacting with her little brother, showcasing their deep bond through affectionate gestures and expressions. The painting highlights the pure and genuine emotions that characterise their relationship, with the sister’s nurturing presence and the brother’s endearing smile reflecting the essence of sibling affection. Ria Das masterfully conveys the warmth and joy found in these moments, emphasising the beauty of their connection through delicate brushstrokes and vibrant colours. This piece serves as a heartwarming celebration of the special bond between siblings, capturing the essence of Raksha Bandhan.
The Everlasting Bond
This festival will continue to hold a special place in our hearts. Its enduring relevance lies in its ability to adapt to changing times while preserving the core values of love, protection, and familial bonds. Art, in all its forms, plays a crucial role in keeping the spirit of Raksha Bandhan alive, offering new ways to connect with this ancient tradition.
Mojarto wishes you a wonderful Raksha Bandhan through these artistic expressions that remind us of the timeless bond between siblings—one worth celebrating today and always.