🧵 Hindu (also many Sikh and Jain families)

Raksha Bandhan books for kids: what it is and how to celebrate

When is Raksha Bandhan? Tuesday 17 August 2027.

What is Raksha Bandhan?

Raksha Bandhan (Rakhi) celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. A sister ties a decorated thread, a rakhi, around her brother's wrist and prays for him; he promises to look after her and gives her a gift. Many families celebrate cousins and close friends too.

Who celebrates Raksha Bandhan, and books for each

Hindu (also many Sikh and Jain families)

Families dress up, sisters tie rakhis, siblings share sweets and gifts, and people who live far apart post rakhis to each other.

📖 Free guide
Amma, Tell Me About Raksha Bandhan!
Bhakti Mathur
the stories behind Rakhi, from the same series as Amma, Tell Me About Diwali!
Questions to ask → View on Amazon ↗

Questions to ask while you read

Use these with any of the Raksha Bandhan books on this page. Pick two or three, and there are no wrong answers.

What is the family in the story getting ready for?
Which part of Raksha Bandhan would you most like to try, and why?
How do the people in the story show they care about each other?
Is anything in the story like something your family does?
What would you like to ask a friend who celebrates Raksha Bandhan?

Ways to celebrate Raksha Bandhan with children

Make rakhis from wool, beads and buttons.
Talk about how siblings (or cousins and friends) look after each other.
Make a card for a sibling who lives far away.
Share sweets with family.

Raksha Bandhan picture books at a glance

All the Raksha Bandhan books on this page: Amma, Tell Me About Raksha Bandhan! (Bhakti Mathur).

Questions parents ask about Raksha Bandhan

Can only brothers and sisters celebrate Rakhi?

It's traditionally for siblings, but many families tie rakhis for cousins, close friends and anyone they think of as family.

Related festivals: Janmashtami · Diwali · Holi

All festivals, by month and by faith →

Traditions vary between families, places and communities; ask your child's friends and their families how they celebrate. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.