Rakhi—or Raksha Bandhan—isn’t just about tying a sacred thread. It’s about laughter echoing in the corridors, the aroma of festive food wafting through homes, and memories that stitch hearts closer, year after year.
As we prepare to celebrate Raksha Bandhan 2025, I find myself reminiscing. You see, I have only one sister, and growing up, we tied rakhi to each other. No bhai in sight, but love? Plenty. When one of my tauji moved to Hisar, where I spent my childhood, the celebrations found new wings. We’d go to each other’s homes, exchange sweets, blessings, and warm-hearted leg-pulling. Even some of Papa’s close friends' families became part of our Rakhi rituals. Festivals, after all, are never about the rituals alone—they are about people. And when those people are family—even extended ones—the celebrations get a whole new glow.
From Childhood to Married Life: Rakhi Keeps Evolving
Over the years, things have changed. Kids grew up. Schedules got tighter. WhatsApp Rakhis started making an appearance. But the essence? That warm, fuzzy feeling of belonging—it’s still very much alive.
Rakhi in Scriptures and the Modern Soul of the Festival
The concept of Raksha Bandhan isn’t new. Ancient scriptures speak of sisters tying protective threads to their brothers before battles. Draupadi tied one to Lord Krishna, and in return, he protected her dignity. Rakhi has always symbolised a promise of protection, love, and loyalty.
But modern life adds new shades to this sacred bond. Today, sisters tie Rakhi to sisters, friends celebrate it as a mark of emotional kinship, and families adapt in their own unique ways. It’s a beautiful blend of tradition and evolution.
Rakhi 2025: What’s Cooking at Your Place?
No celebration is complete without food, right? Here are some menu ideas to make your Rakhi get-together extra special:
Traditional Menu
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Poori–Aloo ki Sabzi (a forever favourite)
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Paneer Pasanda or Shahi Paneer
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Boondi Raita
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Kesar Elaichi Rice Kheer
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Homemade Rakhi special sweets like Nariyal Ladoo and Besan Barfi
Modern Twists
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Mini Chole Kulche sliders
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Stuffed Mushroom Tikkas
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Masala Quinoa Patties
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Phirni in shot glasses with rose petals
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Mango mousse or Baked Rasgulla Cheesecake
Beverage Ideas
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Rose Shikanji
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Masala Chai served with nankhatai
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Mint-cucumber buttermilk shots
Let the kitchen be a place of joy, not stress. You can even plan a potluck-style Rakhi where every family brings one dish. That way, everyone pitches in, and the table is full of surprises.
From My PetPuja Kitchen to Yours...
Rakhi is not just about threads and thalis—it’s about memories. The smell of ghee-laced laddoos, the sound of cousins teasing each other, the sparkle of mom’s saree, the slightly chaotic lunch table—this is what makes Rakhi timeless.
So this year, whether you're tying Rakhi to your brother, sister, or even your lifelong best friend—celebrate it your way. Old-school or with a modern twist—just make sure it’s from the heart.
Because traditions may evolve, but love? It always finds its way home.
Neerja Bhatnagar
If you're looking for interesting and effective content on mental health, parenting, lifestyle, reviews, and more, consider subscribing to my other blog, Neerja's Musings.
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