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What Is Lumba Rakhi? Significance And Everything Else You Need To Know

Lumba rakhi creates a strong bond between two women of a family. Here is all you need to know about this tradition.

India, a country with deep-rooted traditions and a rich culture, celebrates festivals with immense zeal by bringing together every member of the family. Raksha Bandhan celebrates the relationship between a brother and sister that is sealed with a sacred thread or a rakhi. At the same time, a lumba rakhi is tied to the bhabhi as a symbol of love and acceptance into the family. A lumba rakhi for the bhabhi has more to do with just religious significance in households today. In a patriarchal society, the lumba rakhi creates a strong bond between two women—the daughter and the daughter-in-law, who promise to cherish one another in times to come.

What is Lumba Rakhi: meaning and significance

Originating in Rajasthan, a lumba translates to bangle—making the lumba rakhi a sacred thread that is tied to the bhabhi's bangle. Lumba rakhi dangles like a pendant signifying her as a part of the family. Also known as the ardhangini (other half) of the brother, a lumba rakhi’s meaning is to secure a sister-in-law's marital success.

When a sister ties rakhi to her brother, there is an unsaid exchange of protection, well-being, and caring between the two. Similarly, a lumba rakhi for the sister-in-law reflects the essence of an equal bond. The bride or sister-in-law, now an integral part of the family, shares both the rights and responsibilities of care and protection as the brother.

Types of lumba rakhi

When it comes to women, fashion and tradition overlap beautifully. Besides being a symbol of wellness and marital longevity, Lumba rakhis are statement pieces that can later be integrated into outfits as keepsakes. Here are five different types of fancy lumba rakhi for your sister-in-law:

1. Designer Lumba Rakhi

When it comes to celebrating festivals, we Indians love all things fancy and bling. So how can Raksha Bandhan be any different? A designer lumba rakhi for the bhabhi or sister-in-law of the house is often embellished with stunning stones plated in gold and delicate pearl hangings woven in silk thread. A gorgeous lumba rakhi custom designed to adorn your bhabhi’s wrist, these designer pieces can be styled as bracelets even after the festival is over.

2. Bejewelled Lumba Rakhi

Living up to their name, the bejewelled Lumba rakhi is for the super-stylish sister-in-law. Adorned with imitation kundan work and pearls, this stunning lumba looks great as a fashion accessory with traditional outfits. You can buy a matching set that has a Kundan rakhi for your brother, and an elegant lumba for your sister-in-law. 

3. Zardozi work lumba rakhi

Embellished on a piece of beautiful velvet fabric, this cone-style lumba rakhi has small Swarovski-style stones and hand embroidered zari work with delicate pearl and tuile hangings. Suspended on a silk thread, if you are wondering how to wear this lumba rakhi, all you need to do is tie the thread on your bangle. A vibrant colour combination of blue, peach, and gold—this stunning lumba will add grace to your bhabhi’s wrist.

4. Pearl lumba rakhi

Adding to the list of fancy lumba rakhi, this stunning piece is a trending statement accessory in 2022. Wrapped around a bangle is a delicate line of pearls and gold beads. Halfway along the lumba are elegant artificial flowers in shades of white and peach that delicately dazzle on the wrist of the wearer. Hanging below is a cone, finely wrapped in a blanket of pearl with contrasting silk tassels showcasing an example of exquisite craftsmanship.

5. Charm lumba rakhi

A trending Lumba rakhi design is in the form of charms and semi-precious stones. Made using miniature agate stone with a braided silk thread, this unique lumba is a keeper. Agate, a stone believed to balance the body and mind, cleanse our aura, and eliminate negativity is a lucky gemstone to wear. Tie this ethereal lumba on your sister-in-law's wrist on Raksha Bandhan this year with a promise to strengthen and protect your bond with her.

Make this Raksha Bandhan extra special for your bhabhi with these personalised lumba rakhis and strengthen the bond of love. 

Photo: Instagram/samoolam