Raksha Bandhan Rules: When and how should you remove the rakhi after Rakshabandhan?

Raksha Bandhan 2025: The festival of Raksha Bandhan is a symbol of the sacred relationship, love, and trust between brother and sister. On this day, the sister ties a Rakhi on her brother's wrist and prays for his long life, happiness, and safety, while the brother vows to protect his sister. Often, after tying the Rakhi, the question comes to mind about how long it is appropriate to keep the Rakhi on the wrist after the festival. Should it be removed immediately, or is there any special religious tradition for this? Let us know about it in detail.

Religious belief

In the Sanatan tradition, it is considered inauspicious to remove any auspicious object immediately. Rakhi is seen as a protective thread, which protects the brother from negative powers and calamities. It is believed that keeping it tied from Purnima to the next fifteen days is extremely auspicious. This period is considered to be a time to strengthen the brother-sister relationship.

The practice of tying till Janmashtami

According to some beliefs, Rakhi should be kept tied on the wrist till Janmashtami. This year, Raksha Bandhan is on 9th August and Janmashtami is on 16th August. It is considered auspicious to keep the Rakhi tied during this period. After Janmashtami, it is considered best to remove the Rakhi and flow it in a holy place, such as flowing water or keeping it under a tree.

16-day rule

According to Panchang and astrology, keeping the Rakhi tied for 16 days is very fruitful. Immersing the Rakhi in flowing water 15 days after the full moon and on the 16th day increases the age, success, and prosperity of the brother.

Tradition of wearing till Dussehra

In some areas of the country, there is also a tradition that the Rakhi is tied till Dussehra. Dussehra is a symbol of the victory of good over evil. It is believed that the Rakhi tied on the wrist to this day acts as a protective shield for the brother and protects him from all kinds of troubles.

Proper way to remove Rakhi

It is never appropriate to ignore and throw away the Rakhi. This is a sacred thread. After removing it, it is best to flow it in a river, pond, etc., as it is believed that it takes away all the troubles and negative energy of the brother. If a water source is not available, then it can be placed under a tree or near a Tulsi plant with reverence.

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