Gifts are an integral part of Rakhi celebrations. As per Indian tradition, Rakhi gifts are given by elder brothers to the sisters in acceptance of their raksha. They bless their sisters after the thread tying ceremony and give gifts. In the case of younger brothers, it is the sisters who give them gifts along with the Rakhi. The gifts given on Rakhi include sweets, dry fruits or clothes etc.
Rakhi in India is one of the most important festivals and is celebrated with faith and enthusiasm. Rakhi festival in India is essentially celebrated by brothers and sisters and intends to strengthen the eternal bond of love shared by them. Rakhi is celebrated all over India and amongst all sections of Hindu society. Rakhi celebrations are however more prominent in North India.
The festival of Rakhi is also known as Narial Poornima or Coconut Full Moon. On Mumbai's famous beaches, coconuts are thrown into the sea to propitiate the Sea God, Varuna, who is the chief object of worship on this occasion. Rakhi is called Avani Avittam in South India.
This is the time of "upakarmam" and is celebrated in various ways all over South India. It falls on the full-moon day of the month of Shravan (August-September). Rakhi forms an important Hindu festival in South India.
Rakhi is also commonly known known Balev. This festival has special significance among Brahmins as it is the day on which Brahmins change their sacred thread. On Shravan Sud 15 when the moon is in the constellation of Shravan the Brahmins, while changing their sacred thread, rededicate them to study the vedas and pursue spiritual upliftment.
