Girls and women were seen selecting intricately designed rakhis, ranging from traditional threads and handcrafted beads to cartoon-themed bands for younger brothers

As preparations gain momentum, the air is filled with anticipation, nostalgia and joy, and a reminder of the enduring tradition that celebrates the beautiful bond between brothers and sisters across generations and regions

Women look for rakhis at a roadside stall in Amritsar ahead of Raksha Bandhan

A woman carefully arranges rakhis on display at a shop in Bengaluru, as the city gears up for the celebration that cherish the bond between siblings

Employees at a post office display 'rakhi' parcels sent by sisters to their brothers ahead of the festival, in Bikaner