What a Rakhi is

Daddy, what’s a Rakhi?

Does it come with Santa Claus?

A Rakhi is the sweetest gift

It twinkles in the stars.

It wakes the world with lightning

And puts an end to wars.

Does it grow in summer?

Is it very big or small?

A Rakhi is a bond of love

It nourishes the trees.

It is the timeless border

Where the mountains meet the seas.

Is it in the kitchen?

Does it taste like lemonade?

A Rakhi quenches every thirst

And rids the heart of lust.

Respect is its foundation,

Its furniture is Trust.

… Mommy, what’s a Rakhi?

(I don’t think Daddy knows.)

A Rakhi is a little string

That’s given once a year

From sisters to their brothers,

To show their love and care.

What’s so special, Mama,

About something like a string?

It’s not the string that’s special

But the pure feelings that come,

When brother-sister power

Makes their hearts beat like one drum.

It would make nice music

If we all could tie this string!

Someday the world will know this,

Then everyone will see

What a Rakhi is and why it

Is the bond that sets us free.

(a joyous poem by : Edward Saugstad)