Raksha Bandhan, a festival that signifies the eternal bond between siblings, brings families together through warmth, rituals, and heartfelt celebrations. Central to the festivities is the Rakhi thali—a beautifully arranged plate that holds the rakhi, roli-chawal (vermilion and rice), sweets, small lamps, and offerings. The thali isn’t just functional; it’s a symbol of love, lighting, and protection.

A well-prepared Rakhi thali speaks through its decoration, thematic harmony, and practicality. This year, why not combine tradition with contemporary aesthetics? Market99 offers charming and budget-friendly decor pieces that help craft a Rakhi thali that’s not only appealing but also easy to curate and elegant.

In this blog, we explore the rich history of Rakhi, its unique regional celebrations, and guide you through selecting the perfect thali essentials—rakhis, decorative trays, colourful diyas, scented sachets, and fragrant oil burners—from Market99. Learn how to choose trays, scents, and arrangements that match your home's tone, your brother’s taste, and the festive spirit.

By the end, you'll have a curated plan to design a stunning Rakhi thali—beautiful, meaningful, and truly reflective of your bond. Let's begin this journey of celebration!

History of Rakhi & How to Celebrate

Raksha Bandhan, or simply Rakhi, is a cherished Indian festival that celebrates the enduring bond of love, trust, and protection between siblings. Its cultural roots run deep, tracing back thousands of years through sacred scriptures, mythology, and royal traditions. What began as a simple thread of protection has evolved into a powerful symbol of unity and affection across families, friendships, and even historical rivalries.

One of the most well-known legends surrounding Raksha Bandhan is that of King Bali and Goddess Lakshmi. According to ancient texts, Lord Vishnu promised to protect the devout King Bali and left Vaikuntha to stay in his kingdom. To bring her husband back, Goddess Lakshmi disguised herself as a Brahmin woman and visited Bali. She tied a sacred thread (rakhi) on his wrist, asking for his protection. Touched by her gesture, Bali granted her a wish, and she requested that Vishnu return with her. The story beautifully encapsulates Rakhi’s essence—not just sibling love, but the spirit of protection, trust, and selfless bonds.

Another celebrated tale is from the Mahabharata, where Draupadi tore a strip from her saree to wrap around Lord Krishna’s bleeding finger. In return, Krishna vowed to protect her from all harm—a promise he upheld during her public humiliation. This sacred act became one of the earliest symbolic moments of Raksha Bandhan.

Over time, the meaning of Rakhi extended beyond siblings. In medieval India, Rajput queens would send rakhi threads to Mughal emperors, asking for protection or alliances. These symbolic ties of respect and loyalty illustrate the festival’s deeper social and political significance throughout Indian history.

How to Celebrate Raksha Bandhan

1. Preparations Begin Early:

Sisters lovingly prepare a rakhi thali, beautifully arranged with roli (vermilion), chawal (rice), sweets, a diya (lamp), and the rakhi itself. Some even add flower petals, decorative elements, and incense for a traditional touch.

2. The Rakhi Ceremony:

On Raksha Bandhan day, sisters tie the rakhi on their brothers’ wrists, apply a tilak on their foreheads, and offer prayers for their well-being and prosperity. In return, brothers pledge to protect their sisters and offer gifts, ranging from money to thoughtful tokens or even experience-based surprises.

3. Gift Exchange & Bonding:

Gift-giving is an emotional highlight. Brothers often present clothes, accessories, self-care kits, or personalised items to their sisters. Many families enjoy storytelling sessions, reliving old memories, and taking group photos to capture the spirit of the day.

4. Festive Food & Feasting:

Rakhi is incomplete without indulging in delicious sweets like laddoos, barfis, and chocolates, followed by a hearty family lunch or dinner. Every region adds its flavour—be it traditional North Indian dishes or modern fusion feasts.

5. Celebrating with a Modern Twist:

Today, Rakhi extends beyond siblings—it’s also celebrated between cousins, close friends, and even across genders. Virtual rakhis, couriered gifts, and video calls have made it possible to stay connected despite long distances. Some even send eco-friendly rakhis or donate in their sibling’s name, embracing sustainability and meaningful giving.

No matter how it’s celebrated, the spirit of Raksha Bandhan remains timeless—a heartfelt tribute to love, loyalty, and lifelong connection.

Types of Rakhi Festival in Different States

While Sunday, August 18, 2025, marks Raksha Bandhan across the country, how this cherished festival is celebrated varies beautifully from state to state. Rooted in the shared emotion of sibling love, each region adds its customs, flavours, and symbolism to the occasion, blending traditional values with regional identity. Here's a look at how different Indian states bring their unique touch to Raksha Bandhan:

1. Punjab – Rakri

In Punjab, the festival is lovingly referred to as Rakri. It is celebrated with strong emotional and familial bonds. Married sisters often return to their maternal homes or invite their brothers over for a heartfelt gathering. The day begins with tying colourful rakhis, followed by warm hugs, and ends with lavish home-cooked meals featuring sweets like pinni, gujiya, and kheer. The celebration in Punjabi households is vibrant and full of laughter, reflecting the state’s warm spirit.

2. Maharashtra – Rakhi Purnima / Narali Purnima

In coastal Maharashtra, Raksha Bandhan aligns with Narali Purnima, especially among the fishing communities. While sisters perform the usual rakhi rituals, the fishermen offer coconuts (naral) to the sea, praying for calm waters and a fruitful fishing season. This dual celebration—of sibling love and nature’s bounty—makes Maharashtra’s Rakhi one of deep gratitude and tradition.

3. West Bengal & Odisha – Jhulan Purnima

In Bengal and Odisha, Jhulan Purnima is celebrated around Raksha Bandhan. This festival honours Lord Krishna and Radha with decorated swings (jhulas), devotional songs, and playful rituals. Sisters often incorporate miniature swing motifs into their thali decor or conduct small aartis for Krishna before tying rakhis to their brothers. It’s a celebration that blends familial love with divine joy.

4. Gujarat – Pavitropana

In Gujarat, Pavitropana coincides with Raksha Bandhan, focusing on purification and blessings. Sisters create beautiful rangoli patterns and sing traditional raagas as part of the rakhi ritual. A unique custom here involves brothers gifting their sisters with Lakshmi-ka-sindoor kits, symbolizing wishes for her prosperity and well-being.

5. Himachal Pradesh & Uttar Pradesh – Ved Katha Tradition

In parts of Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, Raksha Bandhan is marked by spiritual depth. Priests often recite Raksha Bandhan-related scriptures or Vedic kathas before the rakhi ceremony. The rakhis are then blessed with temple holy water before being tied, adding a layer of divine protection to the already sacred thread.

6. South India – Urban Celebrations

While Raksha Bandhan isn’t traditionally celebrated in most South Indian states, it has found a place in urban families, especially in cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai. Here, the rituals are simple and heartfelt, often celebrated in schools, offices, or neighbourhood communities using colourful rakhis, sweets, and symbolic gifts.

7. Tribal Communities – Jahariyima & Aadi

Among certain tribal groups, festivals similar to Raksha Bandhan—like Jahariyima or Aadi—are observed weeks in advance. In these celebrations, women tie protective amulets resembling rakhis to male relatives, followed by traditional songs, group dances, and communal feasts that strengthen the fabric of their community bonds.

Despite the wide cultural variations, the essence of Raksha Bandhan remains the same across India—a celebration of love, protection, and unbreakable familial ties.

How to Set the Perfect Rakhi Thali by Market99

Thoughtful Details to Elevate Your Rakhi Ritual

Raksha Bandhan is a cherished festival of love, tradition, and emotional connection between siblings. One of the most significant elements of this celebration is the Rakhi thali—a symbolic tray that carries everything needed for the sacred ritual. Setting up the perfect Rakhi thali is not just about tradition; it’s also about aesthetics, functionality, and thoughtful arrangement. With Market99’s wide range of festive accessories and decor, creating a beautiful and organised Rakhi thali becomes an enjoyable experience.

1. Decorative Tray Base

The base sets the tone. Choose a decorative tray with festive prints, textures, or metallic finishes. Rectangular trays with traditional patterns, like floral or leaf prints, offer a spacious layout for placement. Wooden or MDF trays with handles are practical and easy to carry. For a more celebratory look, a large round golden tray adds instant elegance and festive charm to your Rakhi setup.

2. Incense & Fragrance Elements

Fragrance enhances the spiritual vibe of the celebration. Add a ceramic oil burner, fragrance sachet, or mini incense holder beside the tray. Calming scents like lavender, jasmine, or sandalwood create a welcoming and divine atmosphere, setting the mood for the ritual and blessings.

3. Diyas & LED Lights

Traditional clay or metal diyas symbolise purity and positivity. Place small diyas around the tray’s edge, or use battery-powered LED tealights for a safer alternative. The soft glow from these lights creates an inviting and sacred aura around your thali.

4. Small Bowls & Compartments

Use miniature bowls or katoris to neatly arrange roli, chawal, kumkum, akshat, sweets, and dry fruits. Opt for matching or metallic-finish bowls for a coordinated look. Symmetrical placement of the bowls adds balance and elegance to your thali’s layout.

5. Decorative Accents

Elevate the tray’s look with tiny festive touches like faux marigold flowers, petals, or even beaded strings around the edges. These accents add vibrancy and tradition without crowding the space.

6. Rakhi Display

Highlight the rakhi by placing it neatly in one section of the tray. For bracelet-style rakhis, arrange them in a rolled position or inside a small holder. For traditional threads, stretch them across one side of the tray or on a velvet-lined card for an elegant presentation.

7. Safety & Cleanliness

Ensure your tray doesn’t slip or move by placing a non-slip mat, coaster, or cloth underneath. Market99’s bead-embellished mats also work beautifully as both a decorative and functional base.

8. Coordination & Harmony

Match your tray’s colours and design with the rest of your items. For example, a golden tray pairs well with metallic-toned bowls, while floral trays look graceful with pastel or ceramic containers. This visual coordination adds cohesion to your presentation.

9. Ease of Use

Choose trays with sturdy handles so the thali can be safely carried during the ritual and afterwards, whether you’re serving sweets, prasad, or simply passing it to your sibling.

With the right mix of aesthetics, tradition, and functionality, your Rakhi thali becomes more than a ritual—it becomes a meaningful centrepiece of your celebration. Explore the festive collection at Market99 to craft a thali that radiates warmth, care, and heartfelt emotion.

Types of Tray Use to Set the Perfect Rakhi Thali by Market99

From Tradition to Trend – The Right Tray Elevates Every Rakhi Ritual

A Rakhi Thali is more than just a festive platter—it’s the centerpiece of your Raksha Bandhan celebration. It carries the love, respect, and symbolic elements that make the bond between siblings so sacred. Choosing the right tray sets the tone for the entire setup, and Market99 offers a diverse collection that caters to every taste, ritual, and budget. Whether you want something traditional, vibrant, minimalistic, or luxurious, there’s a tray type perfect for your Rakhi Thali needs.

A. MDF Serving Trays with Handle

One of the most popular choices, MDF trays are known for their durability and aesthetic charm. A traditional multi-style MDF tray, priced around ₹1,099, is rectangular and sturdy—perfect for a classic thali setup with multiple bowls for roli, chawal, sweets, and diya. These trays often come with bold prints or rustic finishes that add a festive flair. Another favorite is the brown rectangular MDF tray, which features a premium wood-textured finish and comfortable side handles. This option is especially ideal if you plan to present the Rakhi as a gift, bundled with sweets or accessories, offering both function and presentation.

B. Plastic Serving Trays

Bright, lightweight, and easy to clean, plastic trays bring a playful and colourful element to your Rakhi thali. The VON CASA multicoloured floral tray, with its vivid patterns, adds a cheerful vibe to your setup and is perfect for kids’ thalis or family celebrations. If you want a bold and modern aesthetic, the VON CASA sunflower print tray in black and white delivers visual drama with high sheen and an artsy look. These trays are perfect for those who want an easy-care option that doesn't compromise on style.

C. Melamine Trays

For a minimal yet elegant look, melamine trays are a great option. A set of two small black melamine trays is ideal for personal thalis—especially when preparing separate ones for siblings or children. Their sleek surface, compact size, and durability make them perfect for simple, individual rituals. Melamine is also resistant to stains and easy to wipe clean, making it both functional and long-lasting.

D. Wooden Trays

Natural wood trays bring a touch of tradition and earthiness to your Rakhi setup. The Sheesham wood small tray, priced around ₹639, has a classic look that complements traditional décor beautifully. Its rich grain and smooth finish make it a charming choice for an elegant, old-world Rakhi thali. These trays are sturdy, lightweight, and have a warm tone that goes well with brass or copper pooja items.

E. Metallic Golden Tray

Looking to create a luxurious, festive look? Go for a golden metallic tray. The VON CASA round iron tray in golden finish is substantial, glamorous, and perfect for evening rituals. It pairs beautifully with velvet cloth, floral decorations, and shimmering candles or diyas. This tray type instantly elevates the setup for a premium presentation.

How to Choose the Right Tray

Functionality: MDF and plastic trays suit large family thalis; melamine and wooden trays are best for smaller, personal rituals.

• Visual Harmony: Pair floral trays with soft pastel fabrics; wood trays with earthy tones like beige or maroon; golden trays with red, white, or deep green elements.
• Durability: Plastic and melamine are dishwasher-safe or washable; MDF and wooden trays require gentle hand-cleaning.
• Portability: Trays with handles (MDF or wood) are easy to move before and after the ceremony.
• Budget: Prices range from ₹639 to ₹1,799—choose based on how elaborate or minimal your Rakhi celebration is.

With Market99’s versatile collection, setting the perfect Rakhi thali has never been easier or more stylish.

Conclusion

Setting the perfect Rakhi thali blends tradition with a touch of creativity. With thoughtfully chosen trays, aromatic accents, diyas, and decorative petals, you can craft a thali that reflects sibling love, tradition, and your style. Market99 offers wallet-friendly tray options—from floral plastic to rustic wooden—that lend beauty and functionality to your celebration.

From the ₹639 sheesham wood piece to the radiant golden tray priced around ₹1,799, each option provides a unique look and feel. Pair trays with small bowls, fragrance sachets or incense burners, and simple arch accents like flowers or ribbons. The result is a thali that feels abundant yet neat, ready to serve as a tangible symbol of your bond.

This Raksha Bandhan, take time to design a thali that’s thoughtful and visually striking. Beyond the ritual, the effort you put into the presentation adds sentiment to the moment. Your sibling will see more than a tray—they'll see your care woven into every detail.

Here's wishing you a beautiful Raksha Bandhan 2025—filled with heartfelt rakhis, new memories, and traditions renewed with love.

FAQ

1. What items are essential for a Rakhi Thali?

A perfect Rakhi Thali includes a rakhi, roli-chawal (kumkum & rice), diya, sweets, and a small gift or token. Market99 offers stylish thali trays and accessories to complete the setup.

2. Can I buy a ready-made Rakhi Thali from Market99?

Yes! Market99 has beautifully curated thali sets and decorative items like trays, diyas, fragrance pouches, and more to help you create a complete Rakhi setup effortlessly.

3. What types of trays are best for a Rakhi Thali?

Decorative trays made of metal, MDF, or ceramic with festive finishes like gold, silver, or printed designs work best. Market99 has a wide variety suited for every aesthetic.

4. How can I decorate my Rakhi Thali?

Add rose petals, scented candles, artificial flowers, and mini gifts. Market99’s festive accessories like mini diyas and fragrant sachets elevate the thali's charm.

5. What makes Market99 Rakhi Thali products unique?

Market99 offers a blend of traditional and trendy styles, with budget-friendly pricing and reusable products that can be used even after Raksha Bandhan.

6. Can I customize my Rakhi Thali with Market99 products?

Absolutely! Pick your own tray, diya, container, and fragrance from Market99’s collection to create a personalized and memorable Rakhi Thali.