Abu Dhabi: Raksha Bandhan, a traditional Hindu festival celebrating the bond between sisters and brothers was celebrated in a unique way by the BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi. The women wing of the BAPS created more than 10,000 rakhis, a holy thread that a sister ties on her brother's wrist as a symbol of love and protection. The 150-strong women wing was at work for more than a month, collating data of devotees who have visited the temple. Each woman volunteer then reached out to 40 devotees and ensured personal delivery of rakhis.
Swami Brahmaviharidas, the head of the BAPS mandir, led a special prayer where rakhis were offered to more than 4,000 expat workers who attended the session. The workers came in different batches and belonged to companies across the UAE. The workers, many of them living alone, were overjoyed to receive the handmade rakhis.
A worker said, “This is a great occasion. I was earlier thinking that yet another year has passed without being home for Raksha Bandhan and other festivals. This is a great initiative by the temple.”
Another worker, noted: “I feel like I am back home with my family. We are grateful to the Swamis and Mandir for inviting us to celebrate Raksha Bandhan together with so many brothers and sisters.
