​In pictures: The festive spirit of Raksha Bandhan 2024 across India​

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Raksha Bandhan with school children in New Delhi. He posted on X, "Best wishes to all countrymen on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, a festival symbolising the immense love between brother and sister. May this holy festival bring new sweetness to the relationships of all of you and happiness, prosperity, and good fortune in life." Image source: PTI.

President Droupadi Murmu marked Raksha Bandhan by extending heartfelt greetings and emphasising the importance of women’s safety and respect. In her message posted on X, "I would like that on this festival day, all the countrymen to take a pledge to ensure the safety and respect of women in our society." Image source: ANI

In Soni Village along the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri, Jammu and Kashmir, women celebrated Raksha Bandhan by tying rakhis to Indian army personnel. The women expressed their gratitude to the soldiers, calling them 'brothers' and appreciating their role in safeguarding the borders. In response, the soldiers pledged to protect and defend the residents. Local woman Seerat Bano shared, 'We sisters have tied Rakhi to our brother for protecting us across the borders.' Image source: ANI.

Renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has crafted a stunning sand sculpture of Lord Shiva at Puri Beach. Pattnaik’s creation adds a unique touch to the festivities, showcasing the vibrant tradition of Raksha Bandhan through art. Image source: ANI

At the Attari-Wagah border in Punjab, BSF jawans celebrate Raksha Bandhan with great enthusiasm. The festival, which symbolises the bond between brothers and sisters, is observed with traditional rituals even at the border. This celebration highlights the festive spirit, and the traditional rituals at the border marking the occasion far from home. Image source: ANI

In Kullu, an elderly woman is seen shopping for rakhis on the eve of Raksha Bandhan. This heartfelt moment captures the anticipation and festive spirit as preparations for the special day unfold. Image source: ANI

In Guwahati, women are seen selecting colourful rakhis from a shop reflecting the excitement and preparations as families get ready for the celebrations. Image source: ANI

Delhi-based women refugees from Pakistan tied rakhi to Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal today as part of Raksha Bandhan celebrations. "Today, on the occasion of Rakshabandhan, I got the chance to get Rakhi tied by my sisters. I am very happy that, due to the strong will of PM Narendra Modi, all these sisters have been able to get Indian citizenship under CAA," the Minister posted on X. Image source: ANI.

In Amritsar, women are seen shopping for beautiful rakhis for their brothers at a roadside stall ahead of the Raksha Bandhan festival. The market scene highlights the festive spirit and the anticipation building up as families prepare to celebrate this cherished occasion. Image source: AFP

In Bikaner, a Brahma Kumari ties a Rakhi to a tree as part of a unique initiative to raise awareness about environmental conservation. By using Raksha Bandhan in her message, she creatively links cultural traditions with the important need to protect the environment. Image source: ANI

In Prayagraj, women are seen getting their hands decorated with beautiful henna designs on the eve of Raksha Bandhan. As families prepare to honour the special bond between brothers and sisters, the intricate henna designs symbolise the joy and anticipation of the upcoming festival. Image source: ANI

In Nagpur, women are seen shopping for 'rakhi' at a local market. The vibrant market scene captures the festive spirit and the anticipation of the celebration. Image source: PTI