PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ New Tehri
Raksha Bandhan has sparked confusion with many families still undecided on the date on which to celebrate the festivities- August 27 or August 28. This is because the Shravan Purnima falls across August 27 and 28. However, if one follows the Hindu calendar, the festival will be celebrated on Friday, August 28, with Bhadra remaining on August 27.
According to the Panchang, the Shravan Purnima tithi begins at 9:08 AM on August 27 and ends at 9:48 AM on August 28. “Although Purnima begins on August 27, the Bhadra period will continue until 9:32 PM that day, making it unsuitable for the Raksha Bandhan ritual in tune with the traditional astrological practice. Raksha Bandhan should thus preferably be observed on August 28,” said an astrologer Uday Shankar Bhatt.
Traditionally, tying a Rakhi during Bhadra is avoided as it is considered inauspicious for the festival’s ritual.
According to Bhatt, the most favourable window for tying Rakhi on August 28 will be from 6:24 AM to 9:48 AM. “Families can choose time depending on convenience,” Bhatt added.
