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  • From Then to Now-How Raksha Bandhan Rituals Have Evolved?

    August 04, 2025 5 min read

    From Then to Now-How Raksha Bandhan Rituals Have Evolved?

    Raksha Bandhan is one of those rare Indian festivals that feels both deeply personal and beautifully universal. At its heart, this is about the love and promise between a brother and sister. But when you look closer, Rakhi is also a reflection of how culture, family, and values have changed with time. From ancient times to today’s fast paced world, the journey of Raksha Bandhan is fascinating. It has evolved! And as the rituals evolve, so do the ways we perform them. Today, many look towards meaningful gifts like silver jewelry, not just for its beauty, but for its symbolism. But the burning question arises, which is how did we get here? Let's find out.

    Ancient Origins

    Let's first briefly understand the ancient origins of this day.

    Long before colorful rakhis lined the store shelves, Raksha Bandhan had already found its place in Indian mythology. The earliest mention comes from the Mahabharata, where Draupadi ties a piece of cloth around Krishna’s wrist after he had a cut on his finger. Touched by her gesture, Krishna promised her to protect her for life. Yes, a big promise! But, for God, it's easy! That moment, a simple yet powerful essence of a true bond came into existence.

    There’s also the story of Rani Karnavati of Mewar, who sent a rakhi to Mughal Emperor Humayun seeking his help during a siege. Though they were not blood relatives, this rakhi forged a bond of protection and honor that crossed political lines.

    In those early times, rakhi was more than a decorative thread, it was a sacred symbol of trust, alliance, and divine connection. People exchanged blessings, small tokens, and at times, gifts made of silver were considered pure and protective. Even centuries ago,silver jewelryheld spiritual significance making it a perfect choice for such meaningful rituals.

    Traditional Rituals

    Before the days of express delivery and online gifting, Raksha Bandhan was celebrated with thoughtful, hands-on care. Sisters would begin preparing a week in advance; handcrafting rakhis, cooking special dishes, and often stitching small cloth gifts or wrapping silver trinkets in cotton pouches.

    The rituals were elaborate yet intimate. On the day of Rakhi, sisters would apply a tilak on their brothers’ foreheads, tie the sacred thread, and perform an aarti seeking protection from the divine. In return, brothers offered blessings and gifts. These were not grand or expensive, but often heartfelt like silver coins, amulets, or small handmade ornaments passed down by generations.

    Silver, as a metal, was not just ornamental. It symbolized purity, protection, and coolness making silver jewelry a meaningful gift that carried not just value, but sentiment. It was a way of saying, “I care for you, and I wish for your well-being.”

    Changing Ties

    As the world around us changed, so did the way we celebrate festivals. Families became nuclear. Work lives grew busier. Distances widened. But Raksha Bandhan didn’t fade, it adapted.

    Today, it’s not uncommon for siblings to live in different cities, or even countries. The traditional long-drawn ceremonies may now be quick video calls, and handmade rakhis may arrive in courier boxes. But the emotion? That’s still just as strong.

    In fact, many are finding new ways to make their gestures more meaningful. A beautifully crafted silver necklace from  Paksha jewelry, for example, can say more than words. It lasts. It feels personal. It speaks of tradition, but looks modern enough to wear every day. In a time when time is short, such gifts become tangible memories.

    Paksha’s jewelry in particular connects the dots rooted in Indian heritage, yet designed for today’s woman. So when a brother gives his sister a piece from Paksha, he’s not just giving jewelry, he’s giving her a piece of her culture, her strength, and his love.

    Digital Rakhis and Virtual Celebrations – Technology’s Role in Today’s Rakhi

    One of the biggest shifts in recent years has been the role of technology in Raksha Bandhan. Thanks to smartphones, messaging apps, and online shopping, it’s now possible for us to celebrate Rakhi with the same warmth even if you’re thousands of miles apart.

    Sisters can choose and send digital rakhis. Brothers can order gifts online and have them delivered with custom notes and wrapping. Some even join in virtual aarti sessions over Zoom or FaceTime, keeping the spirit of the ritual alive across borders.

    And when it comes to choosing gifts, online-first brands likePaksha Jewelryhave made it easier than ever to send something beautiful, personal, and timely. Their curated silver jewelrycollections are available with doorstep delivery, elegant gift boxes, and designs that suit every taste, from traditional to contemporary.

    It’s proof that while methods may evolve, love doesn’t need a passport or physical presence to be felt.

    Rakhi for Everyone

    What’s perhaps most heartwarming is how Raksha Bandhan is no longer restricted to just brothers and sisters. Today, the festival has opened up to include all kinds of relationships built on love and trust. Sisters tie rakhis to sisters. Friends tie them to friends. Some even celebrate Rakhi with coworkers, mentors, or anyone who has played a protective, supportive role in their lives.

    There’s also a global appeal now, Indians across the diaspora celebrate Raksha Bandhan with as much enthusiasm as they would back home. And many non-Indians who’ve embraced Indian culture are joining in too, appreciating its message of connection and gratitude.

    This widening circle also reflects in gifting choices. The classic box of sweets is now accompanied by books, art, self-care items and of course, silver jewelry. A delicate anklet, a minimalist bracelet, or heritage-inspired earrings from Paksha become ideal gifts that suit all ages and expressions.

    Because no matter who you celebrate with, or how you do it, a thoughtful gift always makes the moment last longer.


    Because Every Rakhi Deserves a Gift as Meaningful as the Bond

    Raksha Bandhan, like all cherished traditions, has grown with us. It’s changed shape to fit our fast-paced lives, global homes, and evolving relationships—but it hasn’t lost its soul. It’s still about that unspoken promise: “I’ve got your back.”

    And when words fall short, a symbol helps. That’s why something timeless, like silver jewelryfrom Paksha makes such a powerful Rakhi gift. It’s not only beautiful to glance at. It’s rich with meaning,  tradition, and created with care. Just like the bond it celebrates.

    So whether you're tying a rakhi across a screen or in your living room, remember, it’s the emotion that matters. And when paired with something heartfelt and enduring, like a piece from Paksha, that emotion turns into a long lasting memory.