One thread, countless traditions.
Raksha Bandhan takes on a different character as you travel across India.
In some places, rakhis are tied to cattle. Elsewhere, the day is marked with prayers, coconuts, music and age-old rituals.
Here's a look at how different parts of the country add their own colour and meaning to this beloved celebration of siblinghood.
Jhulan Purnima, West Bengal
Raksha Bandhan coincides with Jhulan Purnima in West Bengal, a day associated with the worship of Radha and Krishna.
Devotees offer prayers and perform puja. The festival also retains its cherished sibling tradition, with sisters tying rakhis on their brothers' wrists, wishing them a long, blessed life.
Narali Purnima, Maharashtra
In coastal Maharashtra, the Koli fishing community marks Raksha Bandhan alongside Narali Purnima or Coconut Day.
The festival is closely linked to the sea, with fishermen offering prayers to Varuna, the Hindu god of the waters, seeking his blessings for safety and prosperity.
Gamha Purnima, Odisha
In Odisha, Raksha Bandhan is celebrated as Rakhi Purnima or Gamha Purnima. The day also marks the birth anniversary of Lord Balabhadra, revered as the deity of farming.
Avani Avittam, South India
Across Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh, the occasion is marked by Avani Avittam, also called Upakarma.
For Brahmin communities, it is a day of religious observance when the traditional sacred thread is changed as part of a ceremonial rite.
Pavitropana, Gujarat
Raksha Bandhan is also observed as Pavitropana, when devotees worship Lord Shiva and offer water and bilva leaves at temples, alongside celebrating the sibling bond with rakhis.
Kajari Purnima, Madhya Pradesh And Chhattisgarh
The full moon is observed as Kajari Purnima, with farmers seeking blessings for a healthy harvest.
