Indian festivals are deeply rooted in the values of love, friendship, bonding, and relationships. These elements are vividly celebrated during Raksha Bandhan, a festival that honors the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. This auspicious occasion is observed on Shukla Paksha Poornima in the holy month of Shravan. In 2018, Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on August 26, when sisters across the country will tie a sacred and protective thread, known as a rakhi, on their brothers’ wrists, praying for their good health, fortune, well-being, and long life. In return, brothers pledge to protect their sisters from all evils and harm, reinforcing the profound and eternal bond that exists between them.
Among the many legendary tales associated with Raksha Bandhan, the story of the divine bond between Lord Krishna and Draupadi stands out. This tale, rooted in the epic Mahabharata, narrates the unbreakable bond of love and friendship between Devakinandan (another name for Krishna) and Panchali (Draupadi), the daughter of King Drupad and the wife of the five Pandavas. Although not siblings by birth, Krishna and Draupadi shared a unique and powerful relationship, one that has been immortalized in Hindu mythology. It is believed that the tradition of Raksha Bandhan began with the bond between Shyamsundar (Krishna) and Draupadi during the epic Kurukshetra war.
Draupadi Ties a Bandage Around Krishna’s Finger
The bond between Shri Krishna and Draupadi is a testament to the strength of love and friendship. According to the Mahabharata, Krishna and Panchali shared a deep connection, with Krishna affectionately addressing her as “sakhi” (friend). Draupadi, in turn, had unwavering faith in Krishna and prayed to Him with great devotion.
One day, while Krishna was handling sugarcane, He accidentally cut His finger. Upon seeing this, Satyabhama, Krishna’s wife, sent for help to fetch a cloth to bandage His finger. Rukmini, another consort of Krishna, also rushed to assist. However, Draupadi, who was nearby, quickly tore a piece of her sari and bandaged Krishna’s finger. Moved by this act of selfless love, Krishna pledged to protect Draupadi whenever she would be in need.
In another instance, when Krishna beheaded Shishupala with the Sudarshan Chakra for his sins, His finger started to bleed. Once again, Draupadi, Krishna’s devoted friend, tore a small portion of her sari and tied it around His finger to stop the bleeding. Touched by her devotion, Krishna promised to safeguard her and be her savior in times of distress. When Krishna asked Draupadi what she would like as a reward for her selfless act, she humbly requested His eternal protection and presence in her life.
From that day forward, it is believed that Draupadi tied a rakhi on Krishna’s hand every year, and in return, Krishna showered His blessings upon her. The word “Akshyam,” meaning “unending,” was uttered by Krishna, signifying His eternal promise to protect Draupadi.
Krishna Saves Draupadi
The story of Krishna protecting Draupadi during the infamous disrobing incident in the Kaurava court is one of the most powerful examples of this divine bond. When Dushasana attempted to dishonor Draupadi by disrobing her in front of the court, Draupadi called out to Krishna for help. In response, Krishna miraculously made Draupadi’s sari endless, thus protecting her honor and dignity. This act of divine intervention demonstrated Krishna’s unwavering promise to protect Draupadi, just as a brother would protect his sister from all harm.
Raksha Bandhan Celebrations in Vrindavan
In Vrindavan and Mathura, the festival of Raksha Bandhan holds a special place in the hearts of the devotees. The people of these holy towns consider Shri Krishna as a beloved family member and offer beautiful rakhis to Him in the numerous temples of Vrindavan as a symbol of their love and devotion. In Vrindavan, the tradition of offering rakhis to Krishna transcends gender, with devotees, regardless of being male or female, participating in this beautiful ritual.
If you wish to experience the divine celebrations of Raksha Bandhan and other festivals in Vrindavan, you can opt for a Krishnabhumi Holydays membership and spend seven days each year in this sacred town. You can also own a home in Krishna Bhumi, a temple township featuring beautiful apartments and villas close to the Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir.
Radhe Radhe!