India • Jul 02, 2025

Raksha Bandhan 2025: Essential timings and rituals

Raksha Bandhan, the festival celebrating the special bond between siblings, is set for Saturday, August 9, 2025.
Sisters tie a rakhi on their brothers' wrists as a wish for their happiness and safety, while brothers promise to look out for their sisters—often with gifts in hand.

TL;DR

Timing, rituals, and more

This year, the best time to tie the rakhi is between 5:47am and 1:24pm on August 9.
The rituals start with sisters prepping a thali with rakhi, roli (vermilion), rice, a diya, and sweets.
After applying tilak and tying the rakhi, everyone shares sweets and good vibes.
The tradition goes way back—even legends from the Mahabharata talk about it—making it more than just an exchange of threads or gifts; it's about love and lifelong support.