How to Prepare a Rakhi Thali, and the Order of the Ritual
The seven things that go on the thali, why each is there, and the simple step-by-step most families follow on Raksha Bandhan morning.
The short answer
- On the thali: roli, akshat, diya, rakhi, a sweet, a little water.
- The order: diya, tilak, rakhi, aarti, sweet, gift.
- Your family's way always comes first.
Every family does Raksha Bandhan a little differently, but the thali at its centre is surprisingly similar from home to home. Here is what goes on it, and the order most families follow.
What goes on the thali
- Roli or kumkum: for the tilak on the brother's forehead.
- Akshat: a few unbroken grains of rice, pressed onto the tilak.
- A diya: a small lamp for the aarti.
- The rakhi: and a lumba if bhabhi is part of the ceremony.
- A sweet: often a laddoo, barfi or simply sugar.
- Water: in a small kalash or lota.
- Optional: flowers, a coconut, or a small idol for the puja corner.
The ritual, step by step
- The brother sits facing east if possible, often with a handkerchief or cap on his head.
- Light the diya.
- Apply the tilak with roli, then press a few grains of akshat on it.
- Tie the rakhi on his right wrist with three knots.
- Circle the thali in a short aarti.
- Offer him a sweet. He offers one back.
- He gives his gift and his promise.
The steps are simple. What matters is that you do them together, in person or on a video call.
When to do it
In 2027 the rakhi window runs from sunrise until about 12:58 PM IST on 17 August. Our date and muhurat guide explains why.
Frequently asked questions
Roli or kumkum, a few grains of rice (akshat), a small diya, the rakhi, a sweet and a little water. Many families add a coconut or flowers.
Light the diya, apply tilak and akshat, tie the rakhi, perform a short aarti, offer a sweet, and then the brother gives a gift.
Picked for this guide
From our family shops in Jaipur. Prices were checked when we picked them; the shop page always shows today's price.
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