The festival of Raksha Bandhan, which was marked in August, is traditionally associated with the renewal of sibling bonds, where sisters tie a sacred thread (Rakhi) on the wrists of their brothers. This symbolises protection, and comes from the idea of protective feminine power. Across the diaspora, Raksha Bandhan has also become a time to show gratitude to occupations that serve the public. Throughout August and early September, volunteers from the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) in the UK, and other countries in the Hindu diaspora, marked Raksha Bandhan by tying Rakhis on the wrists of police officers, firefighters, nurses, care workers, mayors and other public servants. As a continuously evolving religion, the emergence of new traditions such as this is commonplace in Hinduism.
Founded in 1966, HSS (UK) brings Hindus together from different sectarian and regional groups to develop Hindus into more useful British citizens grounded in Hindu values. The scope of HSS activities includes, character building, health & fitness, education and extensive charity work both in the UK and overseas.
Image credits: HSS (UK)