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New Delhi:Even after the festival of Rakshabandhan is over, Rakhi tied on brother's wrist remains visible for many days. After this, people often have a question in their mind that when is it considered auspicious to take off Rakhi and what should be done with Rakhi after taking it off. In religious beliefs, Rakhi is not just a thread but is considered a symbol of protection formula. Therefore, some traditions are prevalent regarding taking it off and keeping it.

According to Drik Panchang, Shravan Purnima in 2026 will start at 9.09 am on August 27 and will end at 9.48 am on August 28. On the basis of Udaya Tithi, the festival of Rakshabandhan will be celebrated on Friday, 28 August 2026. On this day, sisters tie Rakhi on their brother's wrist and pray for his good health, happiness and long life. Brothers also take a pledge to protect their sister and support her in every situation.

When should Rakhi be removed after Rakshabandhan?

There is no single day fixed everywhere in the scriptures for removing Rakhi. According to religious beliefs, keeping Rakhi on the wrist for at least 24 hours is considered auspicious. However, different traditions regarding this are seen in different families and regions. Many people keep Rakhi tied for 3 to 7 days. In some families, there is a tradition of removing Rakhi from brother's wrist on the day of Janmashtami. Therefore, one can follow the religious traditions followed in one's family.

Is it auspicious to wear Rakhi on Janmashtami?

The festival of Shri Krishna Janmashtami comes sometime after Rakshabandhan. In some religious traditions, there is a belief of taking off Rakhi after worship on this day. It is to the reverence towards Lord Krishna and the feeling of removing the Raksha Sutra with respect. However, removing Rakhi on Janmashtami itself is not a necessary religious rule for every person. Families who have such a tradition can open Rakhi after the puja.

What to do with old Rakhi?

It is not considered appropriate to remove Rakhi and throw it anywhere. There is a tradition of opening it with respect. Before taking off the Rakhi, take a bath and remember God and then remove the Raksha Sutra from the wrist with a calm mind. One should avoid throwing the removed Rakhi in the dustbin. It can be wrapped in a clean cloth and kept at the worship place or any clean place. If Rakhi is made of natural material, then as per religious belief it can be immersed respectfully in clean running water.

Religious significance of Rakhi

Rakhi is a symbol of brother-sister's love, trust and resolve to protect each other. The sister prays for the happy and healthy life of the brother, while the brother promises to support the sister in every difficulty. This is the reason why it is considered a tradition to have respect and reverence while removing Rakhi.