Category: traditions

  • Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi – The Bond of Love and Protection

    Raksha Bandhan (the bond – Bandhan of protection – Raksha) is a Hindu festival, which celebrates the love between brothers and sisters. It is celebrated on the full moon (poornima) of the month of Shraavan. This article discusses the different ways that Raksha Bandhan is celebrated across India, the legends behind the festival and the…

  • Guru Poornima – Celebrating the Guru

    The Purnima (Full Moon) day in the month of Ashadha (July-August) is known as Guru Purnima. Oh Guru, you are father, mother, brother, friend, knowledge and wealth. The ideal Guru is a facilitator and encourages the disciple to go and seek beyond that which is taught by the Guru. But what are the qualities of…

  • Pitra Paksha – Remembering our Ancestors

    Pitra Paksha, also known as “Shraadh” or “Mahalaya”, is a fortnight (fourteen days) dedicated to paying homage to our departed ancestors. It is observed during the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Aswayauja and usually occurs in September/October. The last day of the Pitra Paksha is known as “Mahalaya Amavasya” – the final night of the…