Raksha Bandhan preparations begin, women flock markets

Ahead of Hindu festival Raksha Bandhan, which will be celebrated on August 13, people in Jaipur thronged local markets to buy sacred thread known as 'Rakhis'. A wide variety of colourful 'Rakhis' embedded with precious stones are available in the markets. Raksha Bandhan occupies a special place in the Hindu religious calendar. The festival, symbolic of love between a brother and a sister, is celebrated with fervour and gaiety among people from all across communities.