Rakshabandhan is a Hindu festival that celebrated between brother and sister. The festival is regarded as bonding of brother and sister for love & duty.The festival is celebrated on full moon, that is why is also known has Rakhi Purnima. Festival is celebrated by people of Indian origin through out the globe. Sisters tie rakhi (decorated threads) on brothers wrist. Brother vow to protect the sister for life time.
There are several mythological stories around rakshabandhan.
According to this legend, credited to Hindu scriptures Bhagavata Purana and Vishnu Purana, after Vishnu won the three worlds from the demon King Bali, he was asked by Bali that Vishnu live in his palace, a request Vishnu granted. Vishnu’s wife, Goddess Lakshmi did not like the palace or his new found friendship with Bali, and preferred that her husband and she return to Vaikuntha. So she went to Bali, tied a Rakhi and made him a brother. Bali asked her what gift she desired. Lakshmi asked that Vishnu be freed from the request that he live in Bali’s palace. Bali consented, as well accepted her as his sister. (source of story is wikipedia)
Rakhi Ceremony
1. Sisters first decorate a plate with kum-kum, sweets, rakhi band & ghee diva
2. Tilak with kumkum is placed on brothers fore head
3. Rakhi is tied on brothers wrist
4. Sister puts sweets in brothers mouth.
5. A gift is given by the brother to the sister.
Rakhi festival has evolved in the modern times. These days gifts, cards, hugs are equally popular. Even it is celebrated as part of evolved cultural ties as well between hindu & muslims as well.
Rakhi is equally popular in modern times, business & institution remain closed in city. Modern day rakhi has evolved with gifts, cards, hugs, dinner. Gifting online has also become popular with non resident Gujarati send gift to their belowed ones.