Step-by-step guide to tying Rakhi the right way you did not know you were skipping this whole time

Raksha Bandhan 2025 is landing on a Saturday (August 9, mark it down!), and while you are busy planning the perfect sibling selfies and ethnic fits, let us talk about the actual ritual of tying a Rakhi. Because believe it or not, there is a correct way to do it, and no, “vibe and tie” is not part of the tradition.



Think of Rakhi as the OG sibling loyalty pact. A sister ties a sacred thread (a Rakhi) on her brother’s wrist to symbolise love, protection, and mutual roasting rights for life. In many parts of India, sisters also tie Rakhi to cousins, friends, or even sisters, it is all about the bond, not the gender. But did you know exactly how to do this festival, you have to check the mahurat, plan outfits, cook good food, and most importantly, follow the correct way to tie the Rakhi.



Prepare the thali: Start with a small pooja thali (plate). It should have a diya, roli (red powder), chawal (rice grains), sweets (because sugar is essential), and of course, the Rakhi.


The tilak moment: Apply a roli tilak on your brother or sibling’s forehead. This is like the VIP stamp that kicks off the ritual.


Understand the significance of rice: Stick a few grains of rice onto the tilak. It signifies prosperity and yes, is totally aesthetic for your Instagram Stories.


Now tie the Rakhi: Tie the Rakhi on the right wrist while chanting a small Raksha Mantra in your head (or just whisper your wish for them if you cannot remember it).


Something sweet, of course: Feed them a mithai, preferably something they actually like unless you are aiming for sibling chaos.


The gift : Brothers are supposed to give a token of appreciation, cash, gifts, or the ever-iconic “I owe you one” hug.



In some communities, the sister also does an aarti (rotating the thali in a circular motion) around the brother. South India and parts of Maharashtra even follow a more elaborate Rakhi Satyanarayan pooja. But for the most part, this basic ritual is the most widely followed and fuss-free version.



Rakhi is not just a photo op; it is a powerful symbol of trust, love, and chaotic sibling energy. Whether you are tying it on your bhai, behen, cousin, or even your bestie, do it with intention, with the rituals, and with a little extra drama. Because tradition, of course.