Sibling love: Raksha Bandhan celebrated with gifts and promises

As many as 15 Hindu families gathered at the Ahata Mohan Lal for the ceremony. They were joined by several Muslim, Sikh and Buddhist families as well.

After performing pooja, the girls tied sacred threads onto their brothers’ wrists to symbolise their trust and affection for them. MPA Mian Mohsin Latif was the chief guest at the event.

“It is a great honour for me to be part of this colourful festival,” Latif told The Express Tribune, “The symbolism of it all is wonderful…the sisters pray for their brothers’ happiness and the brothers vow to help and protect them.”

He said that he had gained a sister at the festival, “Uma Indher tied a rakhi on my wrist and I have promised to look after her for the rest of my life.”

Indher said, “We celebrate Rakhi Bandhan each year. My brother promises to protect me for the rest of my life.”

Hindu Sudhar Sabha President Amarnath Randhawa told The Express Tribune that the Raksha Bandhan celebrated relationships between brothers, cousins, sisters and friends. It was observed by Hindus everywhere. “The festival falls on the full moon (Shravan Poornima) of the Shravan month of the Hindu lunisolar calendar,” he said

“The festival acknowledges the need for a sense of security, for not only our sisters but also for the society,” said Randhawa.

Dr Naresh Kumar said that the Raksha Bandhan portrays hopes for a harmonious family life.

Professor Ashok Kumar of the Punjab University said, “The festival reflects a need for strong family relations, unity and brotherhood among all communities.”

Seeta Ramesh, who recently moved to Lahore after her marriage, said that she was very happy to have received many gifts and chocolates from her brothers, Dilraj Gill and Raaj Gill, who were in Nowshehra.

“I love this festival because being the youngest in the family, I receive lots of gifts, chocolates and money from my brothers,” said Mohini Amar, 13.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 21^st, 2013.