The importance of tying a Kalawa on your wrist and for how long should one wear it

Kalawa, raksha sutra, mauli, rakhi, etc are the different names given to the sacred thread that Hindus tie around their wrist. Be it during the start of a big ritual or puja or during Rakhi, this kalawa is tied around the wrist and becomes a symbol of protection and well-being.
The primary reason for tying a kalawa is to get protection from negative energies and evil forces. It is believed that the sacred thread acts as a shield, protecting the wearer from harm. Plus, the kalawa is like a reminder of your faith and your religion. Tying a kalawa around your wrist is like a reminder that you are a follower of the Sanatan Dharma.

The kalawa or rakhi on your wrist is not just a red, orange, or yellow coloured thread. It is one that holds deep meaning. When tied during family rituals, the kalawa becomes a symbol of unity and togetherness. During the rituals, when you put your hand forward for the priest to tie the sacred thread around your wrist, you show your respect for him and your faith.
In fact, Kalawa is also tied around trees and doors when asking for a wish to be fulfilled or when keeping negativity away from your space.

The first story about a ‘sacred thread’ being tied around the wrist is about Draupadi and Lord Krishna. It is believed that one time when Lord Krishna accidentally slit his wrist, Draupadi immediately tore off a part of her cloth to stop the bleeding. Touched by the gesture, Lord Krishna assured Draupadi that he will forever protect her and that she will never be short of clothes.
While the saree worked as a sacred thread, Lord Krishna’s assurance made sure that Draupadi’s saree did not run out during Dushasana’s shameful act.

The kalawa is also known in the form of rakhi, and is tied around the wrist on Raksha Bandhan. During the festival of Rakhi, girls (sisters) tie a Rakhi around the wrist of their brother, and their brother promises to protect them from evil. The act of tying the rakhi by the sister is said to be a symbol of love and prayer for the brother.

The kalawa is also referred to as a raksha sutra. During ceremonies, priests tie the raksha sutra on the wrists of men and women, and it is seen as a blessing. This practice is common in rituals like yagna, puja, sankalp, and much more. As evident by the name, this Raksha sutra promises to protect (raksha) the wearer of the kalawa from any form of negativity, obstacles, or hurdles.

Tying the kalawa around the wrist, specifically near the pulse point, is believed to have a physiological and spiritual impact on the human. The wrist is considered a sensitive area, and the constant contact with the thread can have a soothing effect on the nervous system. This practice is said to balance the body's energies, help promote a sense of calm, and improve focus during meditation and prayer.

Traditionally, it is recommended to wear the kalawa for 21 days. It is said after 21 days the colour of the Kalawa begins to fade, and with it also fades the protective energies it had. During this time, the 21 days, the wearer of the kalawa remains connected to the positive energies that were invoked during the yagna or the puja. But, after that, the energies start to fade away and it is better to either re-tie a new one or completely remove it. After 21 days, when the kalawa is removed, it becomes a symbol of the completion of the ritual that was performed.

After the 21-day period, it is important to keep the kalawa somewhere safe, in a respectful manner. As the kalawa has the energy of the person who was wearing it, it can also be misused by someone.
So, make sure to bury the thread near a holy tree or in sand. This practice is a symbol of returning the sacred elements to nature, which will maintain a balance of energies. So, it is best to either bury the kalawa near a tree or near the Tulsi plant that many have at home.