Raksha Bandhan, the Hindu festival of the bond between brothers and sisters, falls on Friday, August 28, 2026, celebrated on Shravana Purnima — the full-moon day of the month of Shravana. Follow the time remaining on our live Raksha Bandhan countdown.
When is Raksha Bandhan 2026?
Raksha Bandhan is set by the Hindu lunar calendar, on the full moon (Purnima) of Shravana, so its Gregorian date shifts each year. In 2026 the Purnima tithi spans August 27 into August 28, and the festival is observed on August 28. The morning hours are traditionally considered the most auspicious time to tie the rakhi.
What Raksha Bandhan means
The name combines "Raksha" (protection) and "Bandhan" (bond). A sister ties a decorated sacred thread — the rakhi — around her brother's wrist, praying for his health and happiness; in return the brother offers a gift and a promise to protect and support her. The ritual has grown into a wider celebration of love and duty between siblings and close family.
How it is celebrated
- Tying the rakhi on the brother's wrist, often with a tilak on the forehead.
- Sweets and gifts exchanged between siblings.
- Family gatherings, with rakhis posted across the world to brothers far away.
Count down to Raksha Bandhan
Open the live Raksha Bandhan 2026 countdown for the exact days and hours, explore more festival countdowns, or create your own countdown to the big day.