Raksha Bandhan 2025: Why did Goddess Lakshmi become the sister of King Bali, know the interesting story behind it
Raksha Bandhan 2025: In Hinduism, the Rakshabandhan celebration is associated with the tale of King Bali becoming the brother of Goddess Lakshmi. This tale demonstrates King Bali’s generosity, Goddess Lakshmi’s pativrata dharma, and Lord Vishnu‘s love. Celebrated annually on the full moon day of the month of Sawan, the festival of Rakshabandhan is a representation of the love and trust between brothers and sisters. This celebration demonstrates the ties of love, respect, and protection in addition to those between brothers and sisters. Sisters wish their brother a long and prosperous life on this day by tying Raksha Sutra, or Rakhi, on his wrist. In exchange, the brother pledges to keep his sister safe throughout all trying times. This celebration strengthens the bonds between family members and brings them all together.

It is said that Rakshabandhan extends beyond kinship ties. Any holy bond between a man and a woman is honored at this festival. In order to maintain their affection for one another, many ladies also tie Rakhi to their adoptive brother or another family member.
What was the tale?
The tale states that Bali, the demon king, was very powerful and giving. With his power and penance, he had conquered all three planets, putting the throne of heaven in jeopardy. In response to the gods’ petitions, Lord Vishnu went to King Bali in the guise of the dwarf Brahmin Vamana to solicit money.
When Lord Vishnu appeared as Vamana, King Bali pledged to give him three steps of land. Lord Vamana then assumed his Virat form and performed the first two stages of measuring heaven and earth. King Bali moved his head forward to keep his word when there was no more room for the third step. King Bali was transported to Rasatal (Patala Lok) when the Lord put the third step on his head.
This boon was requested by King Bali
Lord Vishnu was pleased with King Bali’s dedication and commitment and invited him to request a boon. As the guardian of his palace, King Bali requested the blessing that Lord Vishnu himself remain in Patala Lok. After accepting his devotee’s commitment, Lord Vishnu traveled to Patala Lok.
What made Mata Lakshmi the sister of Raja Bali?
Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Vishnu’s wife, grew very anxious and lonely when he did not return to Vaikunth for a long period. She came up with a plan to get her spouse back. She went to Raja Bali in Patala Lok dressed as a poor Brahmin lady. Raja Bali asked her why she had come and gave her a respectful welcome. According to Goddess Lakshmi, she needed a secure location to reside since her husband had moved far away. She was housed in Raja Bali’s palace.
The day of the Shravan month’s full moon finally arrived. Raja Bali was made her brother by Goddess Lakshmi, who tied a protection thread (Rakhi) around Raja Bali’s wrist. Raja Bali inquired about his new sister’s gift preferences. Then the actual Goddess Lakshmi appeared and said the words, “O brother! Return my spouse, Vishnu, who is waiting at my door.
Known for his kindness and dedication, King Bali let Lord Vishnu to return to Vaikunth because he appreciated his sister’s love and devotion to her spouse. Because of this occurrence, it is said that sisters tie Rakhi to their brothers on Sawan Purnima, and brothers swear to safeguard their sisters.