Raksha Bandhan; (the bond of protection) or Rakhi is a Hindu festival primarily observed in India; Mauritius and Nepal; which celebrates the relationship between brothers (shaurya); cousins and sisters (shreya). It is also called Rakhi Purnima in most of India. The festival is observed by Hindus; Jains; and some Sikhs.

In times past Rajput queens practised the custom of sending rakhi threads to neighbouring rulers as token of brotherhood and good will. Even today; in many cities across the country; Hindu girls tie rakhi on the wrist of youths they consider their brothers. The central ceremony involves the tying of a rakhi (sacred thread) by a sister on her brother's wrist. This symbolizes the sister's love and prayers for her brother's well-being; and the brother's lifelong vow to protect her. The festival falls on the full moon day (Shravan Poornima) of the Shravan month of the Hindu lunisolar calendar.