This Raksha Bandhan, the humble rakhi is getting a stylish makeover. While the festival remains rooted in the sibling bond, designs are evolving with changing tastes; from jewellery-inspired and personalised bands to eco-friendly, handcrafted options.The rakhi is no longer just a ceremonial thread but a keepsake and style statement. Whether it’s a silver one, a minimalist bracelet or a handmade band, this year’s designs blend tradition with contemporary style.SILVER TAKES CENTRE STAGE:Premium rakhis crafted in 925 sterling silver are emerging as keepsakes rather than one-day accessories. Paired with American Diamond (AD) embellishments, intricate motifs and polished finishes, these rakhis can double up as a piece of jewellery long after the festival. “This year I bought a silver rakhi for my brother. It has a tiny Ganesha pendant-like thing with red threads attached. I loved the fact that this beautiful rakhi will be something that can stay with him even after the festival,” says Dimple Mojis, an entrepreneur from Goregaon. The appeal lies in their combination of sentiment, durability and a premium aesthetic.RAKHIS THAT LOOK LIKE BRACELETS:One of the biggest shifts is towards rakhis designed to be worn beyond Raksha Bandhan. “I am glad that I got to pick a bracelet rakhi. There’s a variety available this year right from sleek chain-link bands, adjustable metal cuffs and watch-style straps that give the traditional thread a contemporary, jewellery-like appeal. My brother is a GenZ and he likes understated menswear accessories. These designs offer a way to retain the rakhi as an everyday piece rather than putting it away after the festival,” says Preety Shah, working professional from Bangur Nagar.BACK TO HANDMADE:At the other end of the spectrum, handcrafted and eco-friendly rakhis are finding their place. Crochet and handwoven designs, rudraksha beads, wooden elements and biodegradable seeds bring a rustic, earthy character to the festival. “I have four cousin brothers for whom I picked up handmade rakhis. I like looking beyond mass-produced accessories, and these offer that handmade, artisanal feel,” says Antara Gupta, an entrepreneur-artist, from Vikhroli.MAKE IT PERSONAL:Personalisation is another defining trend this year. Initials, names, photographs and customised messages are being incorporated into rakhi bands, turning them into more intimate mementoes. An engraved initial or a photograph can make a relatively simple design feel unique, particularly for siblings who want the rakhi to carry a personal story. “I found many options of ordering personalised rakhis for my brother this year, online. There are multiple designs,” says Tarla Gala, a homemaker from Ghatkopar.THE PROTECTIVE CHARM:Spiritual and symbolic motifs continue to be popular, with the Evil Eye emerging as a particularly strong design element. Blue-and-white Evil Eye beads are being incorporated into contemporary rakhis, while traditional symbols such as Om and Ganesha continue to appeal to those looking for a more rooted design. Radha-Krishna motifs, too, bring a devotional touch while representing love and harmony.
