“Can a girlfriend/ wife tie Rakhi to her boyfriend/ husband” is quite a controversial question, considering that the festival typically celebrates the bond of brother and sister for ages. However, you might have witnessed daughters tying Rakhi to their fathers, sisters, or brothers tying the holy thread to each other. Before we decode the answer to the former question, let’s recall what ‘RAKHI’ actually means.
Traditionally, a Rakhi thread is a promise of protection. By allowing you to tie a Rakhi thread, the person promises to protect you at all costs through all phases.
Even in mythology, the Raksha Bandhan festival celebration does not mention a specific relationship, such as a brother or sister. So, technically, you can tie Rakhi to anyone who is close to you and protects you. The festival goes beyond biological siblings and includes cousins, close friends, and even neighbors, fostering a sense of unity.
Answering the question, Yes, a girlfriend/ wife can tie Rakhi to her boyfriend/ husband because ‘Raksha Bandhan’ means the bond of protection, irrespective of the relation they share. So, couples, if you want to break the norms and celebrate the festival in your own way, you’re free to do so.
As a matter of fact, there’s a story of Lord Indra and his wife Indrani to support the statement that couples can tie Rakhi to each other.
The Story Of Indra And Indrani
The story dates back to the Vedic times. On a full moon day in the month of Shravan, the same day we mark the Raksha Bandhan festival today, the Devas (deities) and Rakshas (devils) fought a war. Indra’s, the leader of Devas, army was losing as the Raksha’s army was stronger due to their immense powers. Indra feared that if the Davas lost, it would not be good for Earth. Therefore, he decided to fight the war himself to save the planet from the evil forces.
This decision of Indra got his wife, Indrani worried. So, he prepared an amulet and tied it to his wrist. With his brave self and strong army, the Devas won the war. Since then, the amulet has been known as Raksha Sutra, or what we call today, Raksha Bandhan.
Wondering then how the festival we celebrate today is about only brothers and sisters? Well, there’s another story for you.
The Story Of Yama And Yamuna
As per Indian Mythology, Yamuna, daughter of Lord Surya (Sun) once tied Rakhi to his brother Yama, the lord of death. Touched by her gesture, he granted her immortality and declared that any brother who promises to protect his sister upon tying a Rakhi will become immortal.
Conclusion
Apart from these stories, multiple others prove that the Rakhi is not limited to any relation. So, a girlfriend/ wife can tie Rakhi to her boyfriend/ husband. In fact, you can literally tie Rakhi to anyone from whom you want to seek protection, be it your brother, boyfriend, husband, cousin, neighbor, relative, or co-worker.
