Raksha Bandhan festival - in pictures
-
Every year, during the Hindu festival of Raksha Bandhan, sisters tie a rakhi or a bracelet around the wrist of their brothers. EPA -
The ritual is meant to protect the brother from evil and cement the bond between a brother and sister. AFP -
Raksha Bandhan literally translates to 'bond of protection'. AFP -
A shopkeeper arranges his display of rakhis in New Delhi. AFP -
A customer checks rakhis at a shop. AFP -
A shopkeeper waiting for customers. AFP -
While the practice can be traced back to ancient Hindu texts, the festival has evolved over the years. AFP -
The ritual is not limited to siblings as cousins, friends and even colleagues tie rakhis. AFP -
Women check out rakhis at a roadside stall in Mumbai. AFP -
The festival is a bank holiday in most parts of India. AFP -
The day usually encompasses family visits, with many dressed in their traditional best. AFP -
Shops, big brands and restaurants offer special deals to celebrate. AFP -
A girl with a rakhi. EPA -
A woman ties a rakhi on her brother's wrist. EPA -
The rakhi or the charm tied around the wrist has also evolved with the times. EPA -
Rakhis also vary widely in design and price, from simple woven threads to intricate bejewelled ones. EPA -
Girls commonly put vermilion paste on their brother's forehead. AP -
Women tie rakhis while celebrating in Kolkata. AFP -
A vendor selling rakhis in Kolkata. EPA -
A woman holds a plate with rakhis, sweets and oil lamps. AP
Most popular today
