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<p>Abhinandan Sharma, wildlife, wildlife photographer, nature, filmmaker, Indian wildlife, Indian wildlife photographer, conservation, wildlife conservation</p><p>AlsoRead0</p><p> </p><p>Abhinandan Sharma, wildlife, wildlife photographer, nature, filmmaker, Indian wildlife, Indian wildlife photographer, conservation, wildlife conservation</p><p> </p><p>AlsoRead1</p><p> </p><p>Abhinandan Sharma, wildlife, wildlife photographer, nature, filmmaker, Indian wildlife, Indian wildlife photographer, conservation, wildlife conservation</p><p> </p><p>AlsoRead2</p><p> </p><p>Abhinandan Sharma, wildlife, wildlife photographer, nature, filmmaker, Indian wildlife, Indian wildlife photographer, conservation, wildlife conservation</p><p> </p>

Abhinandan Sharma, wildlife, wildlife photographer, nature, filmmaker, Indian wildlife, Indian wildlife photographer, conservation, wildlife conservation

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Eco-friendly, artisanal, reusable, here's an edit of the contemporary rakhis to tie your Rakshabandhan celebrations with love and laughter. 

9 Rakhi Brands to Checkout For Rakshabandhan. Read ZeeZest.com for more. 

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The traditional Onam sadhya is grand vegetarian feast laid out on a banana leaf that celebrates the harvest season and local ingredients.   

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<p>The festival of Rakshabandhan ushers the season of gifting and festive celebrations. If choosing the right gift for your sibling on Rakshabandhan this year is a daunting task, then help's on your way. If your sibling is a fashion enthusiast, a self-care junkie, a home decor enthusiast, or loves to hoard accessories, this all-inclusive range of Rakshabandhan gifting hampers has options to suit every kind of personality. </p><h2>For sisters:</h2><h3>1. Rooting Back </h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Rooting-back--edited_1629292818827.jpg"></figure><p>This homegrown organic skincare and wellness brand has introduced Rakshabandhan Wellness Hampers for you to gift your sibling this year. You can also get the hamper custom made based on the personal skin and hair needs of your sister. Some of its products that you can curate the hamper with, include, Collagen Pump, GloMine Serum, Hair Lush Spray, Cleansing Balm, Skin B:right, and Misterize Face Mist.  </p><p><i>Price: INR 1200 onwards</i></p><h3>2. Juicy Chemistry </h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Juicy-chemistry-edited_1629292868494.jpg"></figure><p>Juicy Chemistry is giving three different types of selfcare hampers for Rakshabandhan this year, which you can gift your sister without compromising on the environment. These hampers include Ultimate Hair Growth Gift Set, Youthful Skin Duo Gift Set, and Relaxing Body Care Gift Set. They come packed in pure cotton gift bags with products such as, Chilli, Horsetail and Black Seed Hair Oil; Hazelnut, Coffee and Chocolate Face and Body Scrub, Lavender Water Toner, and more.  </p><p><i>Price: INR 975-1,575</i></p><h3>3. Azafran  </h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Azafran--edited_1629292899513.jpg"></figure><p>If your sister follows a conscious skincare routine, then Azafran's Rakshabandhan gift box is what you need to give them this year. A collection of cruelty-free vegan products, it comes with an organic lavender floral water, a clear skin facewash, charismatic blackberry, and a daily three-in-one moisturiser. Fruit extracts, olive, coconut and almond oil, real lavender, and scent of rich blackberries; are some of the many blends these products offer. </p><p><i>Price: INR 1,799</i></p><h3>4. Forest Essentials</h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Forest-Essentials--edited_1629362241429.jpg"></figure><p>Forest Essentials' Natural Makeup Collection is another gift worth considering for your sister. The brand has introduced a range of gift boxes for Rakshabandhan comprising a set of its organic makeup and selfcare products. Morning ritual gift box, hand and foot care gift box, soundarya miniature luxury gift box, are just some of the many options that you can pick from.</p><p><i>Price: INR 2,000 onwards</i></p><p>AlsoRead0</p><h3>5. The Earth Collective </h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_The-Earth-Collective--edited_1629292935844.jpg"></figure><p>If maintaining a healthy hair in the monsoon is giving your sister a tough time, then you can surprise her with a range of haircare gift boxes by The Earth Collective. There are three options to choose from: The Moisture Blend, The Moisture Specialist, and The Moisture Collective. A complete haircare routine, offering a blend of centella, honey, mandarin, almond, among other ingredients, these kits have been curated specially to help you get rid of dry, damaged hair. </p><p><i>Price: INR 1,150-3,550</i></p><h3>6. Indya </h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Indya-edited_1629292946791.jpg"></figure><p>This ethnic wear brand has introduced Rakhi special collections of <i>juttis</i> and <i>potlis </i>that you can gift your sister to match with her outfit for the day. Other than the festival of Rakshabandhan, this collection by Indya can also be donned in the upcoming wedding season as well. Woven with sequence and beads, your sister can match its potlis and juttis with a variety of silhouettes, both ethnic as well as Indo-western.  </p><p><i>Price: INR 950-1,800</i></p><h3>7. Zouk</h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Zouk--edited_1629354024102.jpg"></figure><p>Your sister will definitely love a bag by this vegan brand. Laptop sleeves, handbags, sling bags, wallets, all of Zouk's products are PETA certified; and make for a perfect accessory to carry with any dress – formal or casual. And, of course you get to contribute towards the environment.</p><p><i>Price: INR 1,999</i>  </p><h2>For brothers:</h2><h3>1. Zariin </h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Zariin-edited_1629292842408.jpg"></figure><p>This homegrown jewellery label has introduced a collection of rakhi bracelets that you can gift your brother this year. Available at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.sitch.shop/">SITCH Shop</a>, unlike the traditional thread rakhis, these bracelets work more as an accessory. They are easy to tie and can be paired with any casual or formal attire. This is one gift your brother can keep for years and amp up his style quotient without compromising on comfort. </p><p><i>Price: INR 799 onwards</i></p><h3>2. Ajmal Perfumes</h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Ajmal-edited_1629292856607.jpg"></figure><p>Ajmal perfumes have introduced two new fragrances for Rakshabandhan —Ajmal Aristocrat and Ajmal Blu –  that you can surprise your brother with this year. While the former is suited for a more sophisticated personality; the latter is meant for a free-spirited person. </p><p><i>Price: INR 2,300-4,000</i></p><h3>3. Bombay Shaving Company  </h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Bombay-Shaving-Company-edited%20%281%29_1629354050139.jpg"></figure><p>Bombay Shaving Company has introduced premium grooming gift boxes. If your brother likes to flaunt a beard then its beard grooming styling kit is the perfect gift him. If he likes to maintain a clean shave then you can go for its shaving kit. The brand has also introduced a skin de-tan and glow kit, comprising masks, serums, and scrubs, if your brother likes some skincare.  </p><p><i>Price: INR 1,629-2,995</i></p><h3>4. The Man Company </h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Man-Company--edited_1629292962201.jpg"></figure><p>If your brother is obsessed with grooming, The Man Company, is giving out a bunch of personalised boxes that you can gift your brother on Rakshabandhan. The gift boxes come with a set of cruelty-free, organic essential oils, and other products for men. Ayushmann Khurana Beard Care Box, Caffeine Gang, Party Starter Kit, Classic Daily Kit, Nature's Gift, and even the Special Create Your Own Box, are some of the many options that you can choose from. Among other products such as masks, scrubs and creams, their range of perfumes in every kit are the reason you must consider it. </p><p><i>Price: INR 1,047-2,548</i></p><p>AlsoRead1</p><h3>5. Moet Hennessy India</h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Hennessy-edited_1629353637957.jpg"></figure><p>What's better than a toast to celebrate the bond of siblings? A day filled with happy memories and fun banter to make the day memorable. This Rakshabandhan, gift your brother a rare Moet Hennessy V.S Gold Limited Edition bottle of Cognac that will take a pride of place in his bar collection. Even better, pop it together with your family to celebrate the unbreakable sibling bond. The lively, fruity character of the spirit is perfect to have it on the rocks or in cocktails. </p><p><i>Price: INR 2,500-11,260</i> </p><h3>6. Tribit</h3><figure class="media"><oembed url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CRZghwdH47Z/"></oembed></figure><p>If your brother is a music buff, the Tribit MaxSound Plus Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker, is apt to groove with him with its exceptional sound quality. A premium Bluetooth 4.2 technology that connects up to any Bluetooth-enabled device to a range of 100 feet, has 20 hours of uninterrupted playing, waterproof speakers, and an exterior layer to protect from scratches; are some of the features that will make it the perfect gift this Rakshabandhan.  </p><p><i>Price: INR  4,464</i></p><h3>7. Objectry</h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Coffee-Set-edited_1629362277081.jpg"></figure><p>Adventure lover, architect-in-the-making, plant parent, lost in thoughts, or organised; if your brother has any of these personality traits, then he deserves a set of home accessories by Objectry. A facet planter and lamp, coffee mug, measuring tape, diary, three shades of metals turned into planters, and a collection of pen stand, stapler, scissor, and more; there are immense options to pick from. We love the Coffee Loving Architects Set for its contemporary and functional aesthetic. </p><p><i>Price: INR 1,950-4,990</i></p><h3>8. Qraa Men</h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Marvel-Thor-ACV-edited_1629362287607.jpg"></figure><p>If your brother is a Marvel fan and is into self-care, then nothing could be a better gift than this Marvel collection of grooming products by Qraa Men. Captain America De-Tanning and Skin Lightening Kit, Iron Man Frame Freezer -Anti Ageing Kit with Vitamin C, Hulk Green Coffee Body Care Kit, and Thor Apple Cider Vinegar Grooming Kit, are the four gift options that you can pick for him based on his favourite Marvel character.</p><p><i>Price: INR 999-1,349</i></p>

Selfcare, fashion, fragrance, and more, these Rakshabandhan gifts are sure to cheer up your sibling. 

15 Brands offering Rakshabandhan gift hampers for brothers and sisters, read zeezest.com 

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Rakshabandhan

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<p>There is something very calming and relaxing about listening to bird songs away from the cacophony of traffic noises, and watching the winged creatures in all their glory taking flight. If you find yourself searching for rest and relaxation ideas that bring you closer to nature and capture the myriad species up and close, birdwatching is your answer. </p><p>So, gear up with your camera this winter and head out to any of these 15 national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in India that are thriving with avian activities.</p><h2>1. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttarakhand </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_Binsar-Wildlife-Sanctuary_1632758171166.jpg"></figure><p>Established in 1988, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttarakhand is spread across over 45 kilometers and is home to more than 200 species of birds. Declared as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International, you can spot bird species such as Laughing Thrush, Nuthatches, Monal, etc. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is also home to wildlife species such as Himalayan bears, musk deer, flying squirrels, etc. There are over 60 kilometers of hiking trails including Ghoralkot walk, Dhaulcchina walk, etc., from where you can marvel at some breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi and Yamunotri among others.</p><h2>2. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kerala </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_2_1632758179690.jpg"></figure><p>More than 91 endemic and 50 migratory birds call Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, situated on the banks of Kottayam's Vembanad Lake in Kerala, their home. From the Himalayas to Siberia, some rare species of birds visit the sanctuary. These include Indian Darter, White Ibis, waterfowl, Siberian Cranes, etc. Boating in the Vembanad lake is the best way to appreciate these winged creatures.  </p><h2>3. Nalbana Bird Sanctuary, Odisha </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_3_1632758188763.jpg"></figure><p>Nalbana Bird Sanctuary, also known as Chilika Lake Bird Sanctuary, is situated in Puri, Odisha. It falls on Nalbana island, which is a part of the country's largest brackish water lagoon, the Chilika lake. The sanctuary welcomes aquatic migratory birds every year, especially during the winter months, such as white-bellied sea eagles, purple moorhen, and herons. The lake is also a stomping ground for Irrawaddy dolphins and home to mammals such as Blackbuck and Golden Jackals.</p><h2>4. Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_4_1632758195674.jpg"></figure><p>Keoladeo National Park, popularly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, was established in 1982 and inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. More than 370 species of birds and animals are found here. In winters, rare bird species such as Imperial Eagle and Greater Spotted Eagle visit the bird park. Some other wildlife species that you can spot here include nilgai, basking python, and more.</p><h2>5. Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary, Maharashtra </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_5_1632758203555.jpg"></figure><p>Located on the Pune-Solapur highway in the Bhigwan village of Maharashtra, this bird sanctuary is home to more than 290 species of birds, which include flamingoes. Yellow wattled lapwing, Montagu's harrier and Tawny larkare some of the rare bird species found here. Close to Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary lies the Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary that houses species such as blacked winged kite, grey hornbill, hyena, Canis lupus, and more.</p><p>AlsoRead0</p><h2>6. Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, Gujarat </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_6_1632758210827.jpg"></figure><p>Another winter wonderland, Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary in Ahmedabad, near Sanand village is perfect to spot as many as 250 species of migratory and indigenous birds. Declared a sanctuary in 1969 and Ramsar site (a wetland site designated to be of international importance under the Ramsar Convention) in 2012, here you can spot spoonbills, pelicans, cormorants, etc. When here, don't forget to check out local handicrafts, go boating in the Nal Sarovar lake, and try the authentic Kathiyawadi thali.</p><h2>7. Eagle's Nest Wildlife Sanctuary, Arunachal Pradesh </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_7_1632758218521.jpg"></figure><p>Spread across 218 square kilometres, Eagle’s Nest Wildlife Sanctuary is in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. It is home to around 400 species of birds, including tragopan, parrotbill, hornbill, thrushes, and more. You can also spot various species of mammals such as the Red Panda, Bengal Tiger, etc. Not to mention butterfly species like Bhutan glory, dusky labyrinth, white-edged bush brown, among others.</p><h2>8. Kitam Bird Sanctuary, Sikkim </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_8_1632758226059.jpg"></figure><p>This bird sanctuary located in Kitam village, near Namchi, Sikkim, lies at an elevation of 1,200 to 3,000 feet above sea level. Red Jungle Fowl, Scarlet Minivet, Himalayan Flame, are some of the species of birds that one can spot here. The River Rangeet flows by the sanctuary and is a major tourist attraction. The ancient village of Kitam even houses mud and bamboo huts, built traditionally around 200 years ago. You can also buy some locally produced vegetables at the weekly market here.  </p><h2>9. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Karnataka </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_9_1632758234493.jpg"></figure><p>This bird sanctuary, located near Srirangapatna, Karnataka is home to around 170 bird species, which include River Tern, Indian Roller, Great Stone Plover and more. It also offers guided boat rides for one of the best bird-watching experiences. Just 18 kilometres away is the city of Mysuru, another destination you can explore on your trip here.</p><h2>10. Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_10_1632758245474.jpg"></figure><p>Established by the Kerala Government in the year 1983, Thattekkad sanctuary, located in scenic Njyapilli Hill, is home to more than 280 rare species of land and water birds. The place was first discovered by the late ornithologist and naturalist Dr Salim Ali in 1930. Aish Tail, Bue Kingfisher, White Breasted Woodpecker are some of the species you can spot here. Other tourist activities include kayaking and exploring the nearby attractions of Wellington Island, Kodanad and Bolgatty, among others.</p><p>AlsoRead1</p><h2>11. Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_11_1632758253187.jpg"></figure><p>Established in the year 1858, this bird sanctuary lies in the Vedanthangal Karikili Kancheepuram district, approximately 85 kilometres from Chennai. White Ibis, Garganey Teals, Spot Bill Duck are some of the bird species you can spot here. It is the smallest and, also, the oldest bird sanctuary in India. The local villagers have been guarding the area for centuries now. It was in 1798 that the authorities gave protection to the birds. Today this sanctuary welcomes more than 30,000 birds every season.  </p><h2>12. Namdapha National Park, Arunachal Pradesh </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_12_1632758261865.jpg"></figure><p>This protected area in Arunachal Pradesh, also an Eastern Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot, is considered one of the richest in flora and fauna. Located in the Changlang district bordering Myanmar, the park houses over 400 species of birds and animals, such as snowy throated babbler, a rare one found only in Mishmi and Patkai hills, and in some areas of Myanmar. Purple and green Cochoa, rufus necked hornbill, white tailed fish eagle are some of the other rare bird species you can find here. </p><h2>13. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Goa </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_13_1632758267982.jpg"></figure><p>Named after ornithologist, late Dr Salim Moizuddin Ali, this is one of the smallest protected areas of Goa. Located on Chorao island on Mandovi river, the bird park is accessible by ferry, starting from the Raibandar ferry terminal. The island is just 15 minutes away from the capital city of Panaji. Little bittern, red knot, pied avocet are some of the bird species you can spot here.  </p><h2>14. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_14_1632758278732.jpg"></figure><p>One of India’s most popular national parks and tiger reserves in Uttarakhand was established in 1936. The park is divided into various tourist zones such as, Bijrani, Jhirna, Dhela, Dhikalaand Durga Devi to manage tourist inflow. Durga Devi Zone is a bird watchers' paradise; even if you don’t see the striped feline, you will spot bird species such as Kaleej pheasant, Drongo, Teal amongst the 600-odd species that inhabit the area.</p><h2>15. Neora Valley National Park, West Bengal </h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.zeezest.com/images/PROD_15_1632758288834.jpg"></figure><p>Located in West Bengal's Kalimpong hills, Neora Valley National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also part of the eastern Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot. Bordering Sikkim and Bhutan, it also links to Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary, and Toorsa Strict Reserve, respectively. The national park is home to as many as 256 species of birds, which include Great Pied Hornbill, Rusty Bellied Shortwing and Golden Headed Black Finch.</p>

These national parks and wildlife sanctuaries offer the best bird-spotting experiences in the country.