Going to school together, sharing a blanket, fighting for an extra share of sweets or even hugging each other for warmth during cold winter days…these are some very memorable moments that we would have shared with our brother or sister in our childhood. And, as we grow older, although there is a certain restraint in our relationship,  our special bond and affection remains steadfast. Raksha Bandhan is one such special day when this bond is further strengthened as the sister ties a rakhi (a sacred thread of protection) on her brother’s wrist and the brother in turn promises to protect and care for her, and showers her with gifts. Raksha Bandhan, celebrated from many centuries, falls on the full moon day of the month of Shraavana, and this year this special day is on 5th August. To help the sisters to buy attractive rakhis and to help the brothers to shop for good rakhi gifts, MetroMela puts together a guide for Raksha Bandhan celebrations in Mysore.
 
Rakhi points
There are a variety of rakhis available in the market. These come in different shapes and designs like flower rakhis, beaded rakhis, cartoon rakhis, pendant rakhis, metal rakhis, etc. Some of the places where you can source wonderful rakhis for your doting brother are Archies Gallery, Ali Brothers, Hallmark, Mystore, Hundred Hugs and Yahoo. You can also buy beautiful greetings with ‘sentimental’ words from any of these stores, which are sure to make your brother happy. Apart from rakhis and greeting cards, these stores have a variety of gifting options too like photo albums, artifacts, candles, inscribed crockery, etc.
 
Gift clothes
It is an open secret that women love new clothes and so gifting your sister with her favorite clothes for Raksha Bandhan could prove your love and affection for her in more than one way. But before you step out, get to know your sister’s likes and dislikes regarding clothes. If you want to buy women's western casuals and branded wear some of the best stores to drop by are Levi Strauss, The Loot and United Colors of Benetton and, if it is women’s ethnic wear, you could drop in at Mysore Silks, Strawberry and Ramsons.  
 
Gift accessories
Women also love accessories like jewels, footwear, watches, etc. If you plan to gift gold jewelry (or even diamond jewelry) to your sister for Raksha Bandhan, we suggest you drop in at either Sharada Jewellers, Bhima Jewellery, Srinivasa Diamond Hall or Kamadhenu Jewellery. For your sister, you can also shop for stylish vanity bags at The Journey or Mysore Tarpaulins, buy women's footwear at Bata or Adidas and get cute watches at World of Titan.
 
Take your sister out for a surprise dinner
Your sister would love to get pampered, and there is no better way to pamper her than by taking her out for a surprise dinner on Raksha Bandhan. Some of the nice places would be Pizza Corner, Top Stuff, Parklane Restaurant, Jewel Rock and Ritz. All these restaurants serve tasty multi-cuisine food.

MetroMela’s tips to make your sister feel special

• Find out what interests your sister the most or what she would like to get as a gift from you, this Raksha Bandhan.
• Plan a surprise for your sister like a long drive, a movie  or a meal at her favorite restaurant. Avoid fighting with your sister on the eve of Raksha Bandhan.
• Do something different – drop your sister to college or to work or do any chore that you would not do for her on a normal day.

 
Do let us know how you spent this special day. Happy Raksha Bandhan to all!