As we prepare to celebrate Raksha Bandhan, let us take this opportunity to remind ourselves about the eternal truth of universal brotherhood
Raksha Bandhan holds a special place in the hearts of all sisters and brothers, because on this day they reinstate the commitment to their relationship. On this occasion, sisters tie a string (rakhi) around the wrists of their brothers, thereby metaphorically strengthening the bond of love that exists in their relationship. Brothers, in turn, make a promise to their sisters to safeguard them against all odds.
Not very long ago, during the times of royal dynasties in India, a similar kind of event used to be held. But here sisters wouldn’t tie a string. It was done by a priest, who after offering formal prayers would tie a sacred thread to all family members, thus figuratively signifying that they are protected against all evils. This used to be the tradition when the men of the family would set out for a battle. It is interesting to note how these people sincerely believed that a small string would actually protect their loved ones from all kinds of threats. looking deeper, one would ponder whether it was just a string or was it the strength of pure energised intentions and good wishes that went with the thread.
With the passage of time, however, we have lost the respect for our traditions. What is the reason behind thisIJ Some people blame the ‘modern’ lifestyle and claim that it is due to the exposure to the Western ways that Indians are losing their cultural roots. But we must not forget that it works both ways. It is right that we are exposed to different kinds of cultures, but this exposure comes with a greater degree of freedom to make a choice. Therefore, to say that we are behaving in this manner due to ‘Westernisation’ is like making excuses for our convenience. After all, one’s behaviour should be guided by one’s own decision and value system, and not by what others are expressing or following. Hence, the need of the hour is not to banish globalisation/modernisation, but to focus on restoring human values and individual self-respect. We needs to understand that ultimately the seed of all our actions lies in the thought that our mind generates. And it is only when we consciously look into our thought patterns that we are able to take right decisions.
The understanding of the concept of soul and karma is helpful when it comes to comprehending our value base. The most important realisation that comes with the knowledge of soul is universal brotherhood. And once we have realised this aspect, then we become respectful towards others. So, this year while tying the sacred thread, sisters should remind themselves as well as their brothers that human souls are children of one Supreme Being and we are connected to each other through spiritual brotherhood. By committing ourselves to the values of purity, honesty, respect, cooperation and compassion, we strengthen the bond of love with each other. After all, only pure thought and action can curb hatred, violence and evil.
So, let us take this opportunity of Raksha Bandhan to remind ourselves about the eternal truth of universal brotherhood. And let us use this thread of divine love to take the inner attributes to a new height, and ensure that we hold purest feelings for all human beings.
The writer is a spiritual columnist