The Rakhi playlist: Bollywood songs that perfectly capture the love-hate relationship between siblings

Raksha Bandhan is not about tying a rakhi, exchanging gifts, or taking family pictures only. The relationship consists of some ups and downs, one minute they fight over the remote followed by supporting each other against anyone.

Naturally, Bollywood has made songs about all forms of these ups and downs.

To feel the true spirit of Raksha Bandhan: ‘Bhaiya Mere Rakhi Ke Bandhan Ko Nibhana’ – Chhoti Behen

No Raksha Bandhan playlist can ever start without this evergreen number. The song by Lata Mangeshkar has been synonymous with this festival always and showcases the love a sister has and what the thread signifies.

For the sibling who is your partner in crime: ‘Phoolon Ka Taron Ka’ – Hare Rama Hare Krishna

This is the song for siblings who may have matured but still preserve the same childhood memories and inside jokes. “Phoolon Ka Taron Ka” embodies the idea of having a good time with siblings while conveying the simple wish that every brother has for his sister and vice-versa, to be happy.

For the emotional ones: ‘Bhaiya Mere Chhote Se’ – Chhoti Bahen

Some songs take you back to the childhood innocence that you have lost; one of them is this song, which talks about the love a sister has for her brother. This song is a perfect pick for those who consider Raksha Bandhan as an emotional occasion.

For when your sibling is annoying, but still yours: ‘Mere Bhaiya Mere Chanda’ – Kaajal

Bollywood has given us some amazing old-fashioned sibling songs. The song “Mere Bhaiya Mere Chanda” is a full-fledged homage to the brother who might get at your nerves but still remains one of the people close to your heart.

For the modern sibling bond: ‘Dil Dhadakne Do’ – Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara

Not every sibling relationship needs a song that literally mentions a brother or sister. Sometimes, the vibe says it all. For siblings who encourage each other to live freely, take risks and stop overthinking, Dil Dhadakne Do is the perfect modern addition to the playlist.

For the siblings separated by cities and busy lives: ‘Yeh Dosti Hum Nahi Todenge’ – Sholay

It does qualify as a friendship song, but I guess the reality is that every close-knit sibling will tell you that their brother/sister was their first best friend. For those who are not in touch every day but can call each other at 3 am, it fits perfectly!

Thus, perhaps, this is the reason why Bollywood music works so well for Raksha Bandhan. The relationship that siblings have is of many emotions. Love and jealousy, protection and teasing, memories and absence. And, as always, they do manage to get back to where they belong.

This Raksha Bandhan, a sibling can be sitting at home next to you or in another city or just be calling to ask what gift you got for them, turn up the music!