Raksha Bandhan, a popular Indian event that typically represents the bond between brothers and sisters, has taken a joyful twist in recent years. Desis all around the country are redefining the festival’s spirit by loving and caring for their four-legged family members.
Tying Rakhi to dogs has recently become a unique and heartfelt way to celebrate Raksha Bandhan, emphasising the eternal and unconditional love between people and their canine partners. Since the last few years, this has been a trend, and many people around the world have been tying Rakhis to their animals.
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Why Is Raksha Bandhan Celebrated?
Sisters traditionally tie a holy thread, or Rakhi, around their brothers’ wrists to symbolise their love and the brother’s pledge to protect and care for his sister.
However, in a developing culture where pets are increasingly considered family members, many people have chosen to involve their dogs in this touching custom.
Raksha Bandhan is historically observed on the full moon day of Shravana, the Hindu lunar month. The calculations for this year, 2023, yield two possible dates: August 30th and August 31st.
The difference is due to differences in lunar calendars and regional observances. However, careful examination and study reveal that the most auspicious and commonly accepted date for Raksha Bandhan 2023 is Wednesday, August 30th.
However, the Rakhi festival can also be celebrated the next day, Thursday, August 31st.
Latest Trends: Humans Tying Rakhi To Their Dogs For Raksha Bandhan
Instagram/scruffytofluffy5
Raksha Bandhan traditionally commemorates the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. However, this auspicious occasion has since expanded to include a broader perspective, recognising the unconditional love and dedication that our animal companions bring into our lives. Millenials and Gen Zs from the last few years have taken it to social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram, where they share their rituals with their beloved pets.
In a society where dogs have become valued members of many families, involving them in festivals like Raksha Bandhan paints the young generation as the evolvers, following traditions but of course with their own twists.
The question that arises now is: what exactly is the significance of Raksha Bandhan celebration with dogs, and how does this foster a sense of protection, compassion, and mutual understanding just as the traditional brother-sister bond does?
A Look At The Symbolism Of Raksha Bandhan With Furry Friends
Raksha Bandhan is an old tradition that symbolises the promise of protection and solidarity between siblings, just as people cherish their bonds with their furry friends.
Dog parents honour their unwavering devotion and friendship by adorning them with a decorative thread or band, emphasising the commitment to ensure their well-being as they do for their own kids or, say, siblings.
Raksha Bandhan is based on the core principle of protection. The phrase “Raksha Bandhan” literally translates to “the bond of protection.” This underlying principle also applies to the bond people share with their four-legged friends.
Pet owners dress their pets with multicoloured bands like sisters tie Rakhi (a holy thread) around their brothers’ wrists, symbolising a vow of protection and care for them.
Tieing the Rakhi around the pet’s neck symbolises the pet owner’s promise to safeguard and shield their animal buddies from harm, much as siblings promise to protect each other from life’s trials.
Instagram/yeoja_0205
The symbolism of Raksha Bandhan with fuzzy creatures is deeply rooted in reciprocity. While pets bring immense joy, affection, and emotional support to the lives of their human counterparts, they also rely on their owners for their well-being and protection.
This reciprocal reliance is the foundation of the relationship celebrated on Raksha Bandhan. The thread-tying ceremony represents the unbreakable tie between humans and their dogs, emphasising that, just as pets rely on their owners for feeding and care, owners find comfort and fellowship in the company of their cherished animals.
Aside from the obvious symbolism, celebrating Raksha Bandhan with animal companions carries a sense of responsibility and loyalty. Pet owners understand that their animals are vulnerable and rely on them for basic needs. Involving their pets in this important festival expresses their devotion to providing a safe, nurturing environment and a loving home.
Engaging The Community Through Social Media
The trend of tying Rakhi to dogs has gained popularity on social media, with loving photographs and stories being widely shared. It has also built a sense of community among pet owners, who gather to celebrate this one-of-a-kind version of Raksha Bandhan.
Instagram/gorgeous_ginnii
Raksha Bandhan has always celebrated sibling love, trust, and protection. Desis are not only honouring the bond between humans and their pets by including dogs in this ritual but also recognising the important responsibilities that these devoted companions serve in their lives.
It’s A Blast From The Past
Here are some of the social media posts from the last 2 years where people have shared their bonds with dogs and presented them with Rakhi.
What do you think about it? Do let us know in the comments.
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