Raksha Bandhan 2024: Best Times for Rakhi Tying and Removal Based on Astrological Insights

Raksha Bandhan, a cherished festival in India, celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters tie a rakhi on their brothers’ wrists to signify protection and affection. This year, Raksha Bandhan falls on August 19, and it's essential to follow certain rituals and timings to ensure the festival is celebrated properly. Here’s everything you need to know about Raksha Bandhan, including the best time to untie the rakhi and important guidelines for the day.

Raksha Bandhan 2024: Date and Auspicious Timing

Raksha Bandhan is observed on the full moon day of Sawan, known as Purnima. This year, the festival will be celebrated on Monday, August 19. According to astrological guidelines, the most auspicious time to tie the rakhi is between 1:30 PM and 9:08 PM. It is crucial to avoid tying the rakhi during the Bhadra period, which falls in the morning on Raksha Bandhan.

Best Time to Untie the Rakhi

Astrologer Chakrapani Bhatt from Kashi advises that the rakhi should ideally remain on the wrist for at least 24 hours after the ceremony. This means that the rakhi can be untied and removed a day after Raksha Bandhan. In some traditions, the rakhi is removed on Janmashtami, which falls a few days later, but there is no strict rule about this timing.

Important Rituals and Guidelines

1. Avoid the Bhadra Period:
Sisters should avoid tying the rakhi during the Bhadra period in the morning. The most auspicious time is in the afternoon and evening as mentioned earlier.

2. Duration for Keeping the Rakhi:
It is believed that keeping the rakhi tied for an extended period may lead to impurity and negativity. Therefore, it is recommended to untie the rakhi after 24 hours. Keeping the rakhi until Pitru Paksha, which starts from Bhadrapada Purnima on September 17, is considered inauspicious as it could produce negative energy.

3. Proper Disposal of the Rakhi:
After removing the rakhi, you can either immerse it in water or place it in a special box. Some people choose to tie the rakhi on a sacred tree. Ensure that the rakhi is made of natural materials like raw thread or silk. Avoid using plastic rakhi and colors like brown and black.

Choosing the Right Rakhi

On Raksha Bandhan, select a rakhi made from natural and traditional materials. Avoid synthetic materials and colors that are not in line with the festival's spirit. A rakhi made from raw thread or silk is preferred as it aligns with the cultural and spiritual essence of the festival.