Raksha Bandhan 2025 Date, Shubh Muhurat & Bhadra Timings | Expert Panchang

What is the auspicious time to perform Raksha Bandhan (tying Rakhi) in 2025?

When should you tie the Rakhi?

Raksha Bandhan, or the Rakhi festival, is a unique and cherished festival in Indian traditions, celebrated since ancient times. It is observed every year on Shravan Purnima, a day when sisters tie a Rakhi on their brothers' wrists, praying for their safety and happiness. To reap the full blessings of this day, celebrating it according to scriptural guidelines is essential. This article provides a detailed guide on the correct and auspicious time to celebrate Rakhi in 2025, based on Vedic Panchang.

rakṣābandhanam - śrāvaṇapūrṇimāyāṃ bhadrārahitāyāṃ trimuhūrtādhikodayavyāpinyāmaparāhṇe pradoṣe vā kāryam । idaṃ grahaṇasaṃkrāṃtidinepi kartavyam ।

The above verse translates to: Raksha Bandhan should be performed on the day of Shravan Purnima, during the afternoon (Aparahna) or evening (Pradosh) time, ensuring the period is free from **Bhadra Karanam**. The ritual can be performed even if there is an eclipse or Sankranti on that day.

Following this scriptural injunction, one must choose a day when the Purnima Tithi (full moon phase) is prevalent for more than six Ghadis (2 hours and 24 minutes) after sunrise. Most importantly, the ceremony must not be performed during Bhadra Kaal (also known as Vishti Karanam), which is considered an inauspicious time that can bring misfortune. Tying the Rakhi during a time free from Bhadra strengthens the bond between brother and sister.

For 2025, Raksha Bandhan falls on Saturday, August 9. On this day, the Bhadra period is present in the early morning and ends at 01:53 AM. This means the entire daytime is free from Bhadra and is highly auspicious for the ceremony.

According to the Panchang, the best timings are the Aparahna Kaal (the afternoon period) and the Pradosh Kaal (the evening twilight period). For Mumbai, the auspicious timings are:

• Aparahna Time Muhurat: 02:01:12 PM To 04:35:39 PM
• Pradosh Time Muhurat: 07:10:05 PM To 09:23:42 PM

How to Perform the Rakhi Tying Ceremony (E-E-A-T Addition)

Following the ritual correctly enhances its spiritual significance. Here is a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the Puja Thali: Arrange a plate with the Rakhi, a diya (lamp), Roli (kumkum) for the tilak, Akshat (uncooked rice grains), and sweets.
2. Seat the Brother: Ask your brother to sit on a small stool or mat, facing east.
3. Apply Tilak: First, apply the tilak on your brother's forehead, followed by the Akshat.
4. Tie the Rakhi: Now, tie the sacred thread on your brother's right wrist while reciting the Rakhi mantra.
5. Perform Aarti and Offer Sweets: Perform a brief aarti for his well-being and then offer him sweets.
6. Exchange of Vows and Gifts: The brother, in turn, gives a gift to his sister and vows to protect her always.

Rakhi Tying Mantra and Meaning

Recite this powerful mantra while tying the Rakhi:

Yena baddho Balī rājā dānavendro mahābalaḥ, tena tvāmanubadhnāmi rakṣe mā cala mā cala.

Meaning of the mantra:
"I tie upon you the same raksha (thread) with which the most powerful and generous king of demons, Bali, was bound. O Raksha, do not be shaken; be firm and protect."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Bhadra and why is it inauspicious for Rakhi?

In Vedic astrology, Bhadra is a dynamic astrological period considered malefic or inauspicious for starting any important work, including tying Rakhi. It is believed that results from activities performed during Bhadra Kaal are not fruitful. Therefore, scriptures strongly advise waiting for Bhadra to end before performing the Raksha Bandhan ceremony.

What if my brother lives in a different time zone?

The Raksha Bandhan ceremony is always based on the local timings of the brother's location. You must check the Purnima Tithi and Bhadra timings according to the sunrise and sunset in your brother's city and advise him to have the Rakhi tied during the auspicious muhurat there.

Can Rakhi be tied during Sutak Kaal?

Sutak Kaal is a period of ritual impurity observed after a birth or death in the family. Generally, most religious ceremonies and auspicious activities are avoided during this time. It is best to consult a family priest or elder for guidance, as traditions can vary. In many cases, the ceremony is performed after the Sutak period has concluded.