How to do Rakhi Pooja step by step?

To do Rakhi Pooja, you will need a Rakhi thali with a diya, akshat (rice mixed with turmeric), kumkum, sweets, and a rakhi. Ask your brother to sit on a platform or on the floor. Apply a tilak on your brother’s forehead with kumkum.

Tie the rakhi on your brother’s right wrist. Wave the diya in a circular motion around your brother’s face. Sprinkle akshat on your brother’s head. Offer your brother sweets and gifts. Pray for your brother’s well-being.

• Wash your hands before beginning the ritual.
• Ensure your brother’s right wrist is clean and dry before tying the rakhi.
• Tie the rakhi with a firm but comfortable knot.
• Express your love, blessings, and gratitude while tying the rakhi, as the ritual is about emotions as much as tradition.

Items Required for Puja

Mentioned below are the items you might require for the puja. Additionally, you can order/buy Rakhi online to add a special touch to the celebration:

The steps for the Rakshabandhan Puja Vidhi are mentioned below:

Preparations for Raksha Bandhan Puja Vidhi 2026

Gather the necessary items

You will need a few items to perform the Raksha Bandhan ritual.

Clean and decorate your home

As with any puja, it is important to clean and decorate your home before you begin. This will create a sacred space for the ritual.

Settle down in a quiet place

Find a quiet place in your home where you can perform the ritual without being disturbed.

The Ritual Process

Offer prayers to the gods

Begin the ritual by offering prayers to the gods. You can do this by chanting mantras or simply by praying in your own words.

Apply the tilak

Once you have offered prayers, apply the tilak to your brother’s forehead. This is a symbol of your love and protection.

Tie the rakhi

Next tie the rakhi around your brother’s wrist. As you tie the rakhi, pray for his well-being and protection.

Spend a few moments together after the ceremony to celebrate the occasion.

Offer coconut and sweets

Offer your brother coconut and sweets as a gesture of your love and respect.

Exchange gifts

Traditionally, brothers and sisters exchange gifts on Raksha Bandhan. This is a way to show their love and appreciation for each other. To make this occasion even more special, you can order Raksha Bandhan gifts for sister. Choose from a wide range of thoughtful presents that reflect your affection and strengthen the bond between siblings.

Spend time together

After the ritual, spend some time together with your brother. This is a special day to celebrate your bond and to reaffirm your love for each other.

Time and Muhurat 2026

According to the Sanathan Panchang, the Purnima Tithi, time or Mahurat begins at 9:08 AM on August 27th, 2026, and ends at 9:48 AM on August 28, 2026.

When Is Raksha Bandhan?

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on the last day of the Hindu lunar calendar month, called Sharvana. It coincides with a full moon day. While the Georgian dates keep changing every year, Raksha Bandhan usually falls during the months of July or August. In 2026, Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on August 28, which happens to be a Friday.

Auspicious Time To Tie Rakhi

The auspicious time to tie the rakhi varies yearly based on the specific region and family traditions. Tying the rakhi during the Aparahna period is generally advised, which is the late afternoon time when the Rakhi thread is believed to be most effective.

However, most people refer to a Panchang, the Hindu Almanac, or consult with a priest to determine the specific muhurat for rakhi tying. The auspicious time to tie the rakhi begins at 5:57 AM on Friday and ends at 9:48 AM.

Bhadra Time

As per Hindu astrology and beliefs, Bhadra time refers to an inauspicious period. It is believed that conducting religious ceremonies, important work, and initiating new ventures can prove unfavourable or unprofitable during the Bhadra time.

Therefore, even on the day of Raksha Bandhan, tying of rakhis is avoided during the Bhadra period to ensure the sanctity and positive energy of the festival. You can refer to the Hindu Calender or Panchang to determine the accurate Bhadra period on Rakhi day. For the year 2026, the Bhadra time ends before sunrise.

Modern Ways To Tie A Rakhi

From a simple sacred thread, “mauli,” to designer Rakhis, the occasion of Raksha Bandhan has undergone a prominent evolution at great levels. Here are some of the modern Rakhis and their added specialities.

If you’re wondering how to tie a Rakhi, we also provide a comprehensive “Step-by-step Rakhi tying instructions” to help you perform this cherished ritual with ease and grace.

History of Raksha Bandhan

The history of Rakshabandhan dates back to ancient times and has its roots in various legends. One such tale talks about Krishna and Draupadi from the epic Mahabharata. According to the story, when Krishna injured his finger, Draupadi tore a piece of her saree and tied it around it to soothe his pain and stop the bleeding. Touched by her care, Krishna promised to protect Draupadi, which became the foundation of Rakshabandhan.

Another story told in the Bhagavat Puran and Vishnu Puran narrates that when Vishnu conquered the three worlds from King Bali, he asked Vishnu to live in his palace. Vishnu’s wife, Lakshmi, was unhappy with this decision, so she tied a rakhi on King Bali’s hand and made him a brother. Honored by the gesture, King Bali granted her a wish which she used to ask for Vishnu’s return.

Frequently Asked Questions