Rakhi Purnima
Rakhi purnima is a very important day for everyone in India. Rakhi purnima comes in the month of Shravana, which is known as the month of Gods and worships. The full moon day in this month is called rakhi poornima. This day is celebrated in different ways in different parts of India with different rituals and tradtions. However the prayer for protection and well-being is one thing that is common in everyone's prayer. In the Western Ghats, the rakhi day is considered to be an offering to Lord Varuna, the lord of the sea. Lord Varuna is offered coconuts and on the day of Rakhi , coconuts are thrown in the sea. This is also the reason why this day is also celebrated as Nariyal Purnima. With this ritual, marks the beginning of the fishing season.
In South India, rakhi purnima is called Avani Avittam. This day is considered to be very important for the Brahmins as they fist take a holy bath and then change their holy thread (Janeyu) chanting the mantras. On this day they perform the ceremony called Shravani or Rishi Tarpan.
In the northern part of India, rakhi purnima is called Kajri Purnima or Kajri Navami. On this day wheat or barley is sown. Goddess Bhagwati is worshipped and farmers seek her blessings for a good crop. In Gujarat, people offer water to Shiva Linga and pray for forgiveness. The festival of rakhi or Raksha Bandhan in scriptures is described as the 'Punya Pradayak', the day that brings blessings and happiness for all.
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