THE FESTIVAL OF BOND

Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi, as we say, is here. Its an annual affair for most of the Indian houses to celebrate this festival with lot of excitement. Its most exciting when we have small kids at home. Dressing up little baby girls in traditional attires to tie the rakhi (a talisman or amulet), the little boy to be the "bhaiya" who is ready to take the pledge to protect her sister (no matter how small the bhai is). Imagine this scene and one can agree how innocent the little brother and sister looks doing the rituals- tying rakhi to brother and receiving gift from him. Years pass by, the rakhi and gifts change as they grow up, what remains same is the love and bond between siblings. The festival is celebrated on last day of Shraavana month of the Hindu Lunar Calendar. Though Indian society has changed over the years, we have nuclear family and members of family living in different parts of the world for job or studies, it might not be possible for the siblings to meet each year and celebrate the festival. This year due to COVID Pandemic, many people are in their hometown, thanks to work from home. Some are unfortunately struck in different cities, away from their families. But thanks to technology, video calls, group calls keeps us connected. Also we celebrate virtual rakhi. I know, it cannot match the magic of siblings running after each other but we can still bond and make the day a little special. Many companies are helping you to send customised gifts and rakhis for your brothers and return gifts for your dear sisters. No pandemic should spoil the spirit of this special festival. Check out the following options to send rakhi gifts, combos to your loved ones.

Á      https://www.rakhi.in/

Á      winni.in

Á      https://www.archiesonline.com/raksha-bandhan-gifts

Á      https://www.virtualrakhi.com/

Á      https://www.igp.com/

 

Some of these sites are offering express delivery and worldwide delivery for rakhi gifts. Then there are also sites like https://propshop24.com for quirky items and good old amazon, nykaa. A lot of small artists and craft persons are available on various social media platforms offering customized handmade products.

You can check these options for gifting ideas if you have not got anything yet for your brother or sister. Don't forget to check the delivery timelines, dates and conditions while you purchase anything. We must not forget, as consumers its our duty to be vigilant before we can blame the sellers. (many fraud sellers are up these days on social media specially) I got the items I needed from IGP and propshop24 (though I found some items are overpriced, better deals on amazon). As its not advisable to venture out and explore items in person, its time to experiment. Also do not forget to be vocal for local and prefer the small budding entrepreneurs.

And if you are the lazy ones, who rush at the last moment, try DUNZO and WE FAST. They are courier guys delivering couriers, parcels from one point to another in addition to getting goods from shops in a given range of your area. (DUNZO is super helpful, they get groceries within an hour from your nearby shops). This helps you to stay safe at your home, order items and DUNZO guy bringing that to your home. (We must thank such frontline warriors who are helping us to get everything at our doorsteps). Do try them if they are available in your area! (I tried both the services personally and they delivered my gifts in same condition as I packed, without any damage!)

So, in short, don't let COVID 19 spoil any of your special occasion. Let us find solutions and ways to and bring happiness to our doorstep. I am ready with my rakhi gifts, are you? If not, do hit the links above before its too late.

Have a memorable Raksha Bandhan!!