Tradition, fun mark Rakshabandhan

VARANASI: Religious functions and traditional puja marked Rakshabandhan celebrations in different parts of the city on Saturday.
While brisk purchasing of rakhis, sweets, chocolates and other gift items were witnessed in the day, the festivity was celebrated with traditional religious fervour across the city. The celebrations gathered momentum in the afternoon that coincided with the culmination of the Shrawan month.
In most homes, sisters tied sacred thread (rakhi) on the wrist of their brothers after performing puja. Younger sisters also sought blessings of their brothers who gave them special gifts. Exchange of sweets and chocolates were also witnessed in many households.
As the Shubh Muhurta (auspicious timing) of puja started after 11 am, all prominent crossings across the city wore a deserted look in the afternoon. Religious functions were also held across prominent temples including the famous Kashi Viswanath Temple and Sankat Mochan Temple. Earlier, a number of devotees took a holy dip in the Ganga in spite of its rising trend as the day marked the conclusion of Shrawan month.
In other parts of the city, young tribal girls belonging to Banwasi Kanya Hostel, Pisachmochan, tied colourful rakhis on the wrists of Jawans of 39 GTC in Cantonment area. People also thronged Durgakund to enjoy swings.