Prayagraj: Rakshabandhan was celebrated with traditional fervour across Prayagraj on Friday, with sisters tying rakhis on their brothers’ wrists and families coming together despite heavy rain that lashed the city during the day. From homes to markets, the festival brought a festive atmosphere across the city.The auspicious muhurat for tying the raksha sutra on the basis of the Udaya Tithi (date of rising sun) was till 9.47am. As a result, celebrations began early, with several families starting the rituals around 7am. Since the raksha sutra was not tied during Rahukaal, which lasted from 10.46am to 12.22pm, families used the period to prepare special dishes and festive meals.Many sisters travelled to distant areas to celebrate the festival with their brothers despite heavy rains. Heavy rain began around 1pm, but it failed to dampen the festive spirit. Celebrations continued till late evening, with streets and homes across the city remaining lively.The festival also made a strong presence on social media. Families shared photographs and videos of rakhi ceremonies, tilak rituals, group pictures and blessings of elders on WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram. Those unable to return home connected with their siblings through video calls and shared moments online.Meanwhile, sweet shops and markets remained crowded throughout the day.Rakshabandhan saw a major rush of women passengers on roadways and city buses, with around 55,000 sisters travelling with one companion for free on Thursday, said regional manager, UPSRTC, Ravindra Singh. Of the around 10,600 passengers who travelled in 50 city e-buses, 8,315 were women. The rush was particularly seen on routes to Naini, Phaphamau, Jhunsi, Civil Lines and Dhoomanganj.The rush continued on Friday as well, though rain added to passengers’ difficulties. For the first time, around 90 women also took a free trial ride on a double-decker bus.
