Raksha Bandhan is a popular Hindu festival that celebrates the bond of affection between brothers and sisters. In Bengal, it was famously used by Rabindranath Tagore as a symbol of unity and harmony. In the vibrant socio-cultural landscape of West Bengal, Raksha Bandhan is observed with profound devotion, extensive community participation, and traditional splendor, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds in a remarkable display of unity and festive joy.

History: While the festival has ancient Puranic roots, Tagore used the ritual during the 1905 Partition of Bengal to unite Hindus and Muslims by encouraging them to tie sacred threads on each other's wrists. Over the centuries, the core customs of Raksha Bandhan have been deeply influenced and molded by regional folklore, historical socio-political movements, and the unyielding spirit of the Bengali populace to preserve their rich, ancient heritage in the modern era.

Significance: It represents the promise of protection and the celebration of sibling love. It is a day of joy, dressing up, and exchanging beautifully crafted threads (Rakhi).