Raksha Bandhan 2025: Is Rakhi on 8th or 9th August?
Every year, as Raksha Bandhan approaches, many people face the same question — when exactly should we tie the rakhi? In 2025, the confusion is even greater, as some say August 8 while others say August 9. Let’s clear the air.
📅 The Dates in 2025
-
India: Saturday, 9th August 2025 – This is when Shravana Purnima (full moon day of the Shravan month) is observed according to the Hindu lunar calendar.
-
USA/Canada & some other countries: Friday, 8th August 2025 – Due to time zone differences, the Purnima tithi starts earlier in these regions.
🌙 Why the Difference in Dates?
Hindu festivals follow the lunar calendar, not the regular Gregorian one. The exact date depends on:
-
The Purnima tithi (full moon) start and end times.
-
Local time zones – In some countries, the full moon occurs a day earlier than in India.
🕒 Shubh Muhurat (India – 9 Aug 2025)
-
Purnima Tithi Starts: 9:29 AM (Aug 9)
-
Purnima Tithi Ends: 11:47 AM (Aug 10)
-
Best Rakhi Tying Time: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM on Aug 9 (avoid Bhadra period if applicable)
🎉 How to Celebrate
-
Sisters tie the rakhi on their brothers’ wrists, pray for their well-being, and offer sweets.
-
Brothers give gifts and promise lifelong protection.
-
Families gather for a meal, share stories, and strengthen bonds.
If you are in India, celebrate on 9th August 2025. If you are abroad, especially in North America, check your local lunar calendar — you might be celebrating on 8th August. Either way, Raksha Bandhan is about love, respect, and the promise of protection, and the date is secondary to the emotion behind it.