Raksha Bandhan is a unique and effervescent festival in the vast and vibrant list of Indian festivals celebrating siblingship. It is another occasion highlighting the rich Indian heritage. At the core of Raksha Bandhan rituals is a gorgeous plate called Rakhi Thali, containing all the items needed for Rakhi tying rituals. Rakhi thali signifies affection, tradition, custom, and blessings associated with Raksha Bandhan.
Rakhi Thali Across India
Rakhi thali has regional variations across the different parts of India. In this blog, let us explore how the Rakhi thali, the emblem of Raksha Bandhan, varies across various parts of India.
- North India – Simple & Symbolic Rituals
In the north Indian states like Delhi, UP, Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal, the Rakhi thali is a plain, modest, yet graceful arrangement of essential items needed to celebrate Rakhi. Rakhi thali in northern India contains necessary items like Rakhi, Roli (red vermilion), Akshat or Chawal (rice grains), diya (lamp), and sweets. In Punjab and Himachal, a Mauli (red sacred thread) is tied before Rakhi.
- Rajasthan – Rich and Beautiful Rakhi Thali
Rajasthan’s cultural heritage is reflected in its Rakhi Thalis as well. Rajasthani Rakhi thalis are decorated with local meenakari and mirror decorations, enriching the beauty of the Rakhi Thali. Besides the normal items used in the Rakhi tying ceremony, you will also find dry fruits, decorated coconuts, silver coins, gud (jaggery), and batasha (sugar candy), embodying sweetness and prosperity.
- Gujarat – Blending Devotedness with Festivities
Gujaratis have it in them to add a festive vibe to every festival. Gujarati Rakhi thali is not merely a ritualistic item but a thoughtful piece of art. Rakhi thali from Gujarat brings to you beautifully ornate Rakhis, kumkum, diya, rice, along with local sweets like Mohanthal, Basundi, etc. In Gujarati households, Rakhi with Gifts assumes significant importance. Siblings bring thoughtful and personalized gifts and make the festival memorable.
- Maharashtra – Rakhi coincides with Narali Purnima
Maharashtra celebrates Rakhi with Narali Purnima, a fishing community festival. Here, the Rakhi Thali contains coconuts offered to the sea for its protection and blessings for those venturing out in the sea. A Maharashtrian Rakhi thali additionally also contains modak, flowers, Kalash, and coconuts in addition to the regular ingredients.
- South India – Evolving Customs
Raksha Bandhan wasn’t historically celebrated in South India; it is a recent addition and is now gaining popularity in Southern India. South Indian Rakhi Thali takes inspiration from local South Indian customs and contains items like jasmine flowers, sandalwood paste, and mithai like Mysore Pak or Coconut Barfi, imparting Rakhi Thali’s typical local flavour. The idea of Rakhi with gifts is gaining prominence here, with local mithai, indoor plants, and personalized gifts at the centre stage of gifting.
- Bihar and Jharkhand – Traditional Blessings & Pious Threads
Rakhi is a revered festival and a deeply spiritual experience in Bihar and Jharkhand. In this part of India, sisters tie a raksha sutra along with Deepak, Akashat, agarbatti, and mithai. In Bihar and Jharkhand, Rakhi with gifts is picking up with the younger generation.
- Eastern India: Minimalistic yet Spiritual Touch
In eastern Indian states like Assam, Manipur, and Tripura, the Raksha Bandhan festival is a simple affair. Here, Rakhi rituals involve spiritual genuineness. Rakhi here are handcrafted, preferably from natural fibres, and Rakhi Thali here also features diya, flowers, tilak, and sweets like Pitha or Kheer.
Rakhi Thali – A Cultural Artifact
More than a plate, a Rakhi thali is a canvas of emotions and an ode to siblingship. Each part of India creates its own story while making memories in this unique festival of love and protection. With time, this festival has evolved, and the buzz of rakhi with gifts makes sure the tradition of love, care, and protection continues across miles and memories.
