Brothers get a Rakhi on their wrists on 'Raksha Bandhan'

New Delhi, Aug 16 : Sisters across the country today tied Rakhi on the wrists of their brothers as a token of love wishing them prosperity and happiness, while the latter on their pledge to protect their sisters' honour.

The official residence of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh swarmed with children who tied Rakhi on his wrist. Women and young girls visited the residence of Leader of Opposition, L K Advani to celebrate the occasion.

Small children presented them with flowers and were given sweets and chocolates in return.

The younger generation looks at it more as a time to get together and have fun.

"I really enjoy this occasion because this marks the love between a brother and sister. It's basically a bond that ties us," Mansha Kapoor said after tying rakhi to her brother.

Tradition has it the brother gives his sister either money or a gift and the markets register brisk sales during this period.

The festivals origin dates back several centuries to the time when an upper caste Hindu queen Rani Roopmati, in times of war, sent a thread to Mughal ruler Humayun, requesting protection from the enemy.

King Humayun accepted the thread and honoured her request. Since then, the tradition continues in most of the families.

ANI