Volunteers honor local civic servants during the Hindu Raksha Bandhan festival
Festivals and rituals hold special value in our lives and culture. Every festival has a historical significance. The festival of Raksha Bandhan is one such festival that is celebrated by Hindus across the globe with much enthusiasm.
Keeping with the spirit, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh volunteers across multiple states celebrated Raksha Bandhan as a "Universal Oneness Day" including here in the western suburbs of Chicago.
Raksha Bandhan is observed on Purnima, which is a full moon day, and is celebrated in the month of August. This year, it was on Aug. 12.
"Raksha" means safety and "Bandhan" means a bond. This word traditionally, defines the purity and sanctity of the bond that exists between a brother and sister with unconditional love, support and protection for each other. First responders and civic officials work selflessly to ensure the well-being, safety and security of all residents.
Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh volunteers of Aurora, Bolingbrook and Naperville celebrated Universal Oneness Day by tying rakhi (pronounced rah-KEY, a string bracelet) around the wrists of the men and women in uniform, offering their best wishes for their safety and prosperity, including Assistant Fire Chief Kevin Nickel and his team on Aug. 11; Bolingbrook Mayor Mary Alexander-Basta, Police Chief Mike Rompa, Fire Chief Jeff Lajoie and their teams on Aug. 16; and Naperville Mayor Steve Chirico, Police Chief Jason Arres, Fire Chief Mark Puknaitis and their teams on Aug. 22.
Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh is an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, organized under U.S. laws for the purpose of education and community service. Its mission is to bring together the American Hindu community, pass on the Hindu culture to future generations, and collectively contribute to and serve local communities in the U.S.
Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh promotes self-discipline, self-confidence, and a spirit of selfless service for humanity through its structured values education program for Hindu children and adults. Currently, it operates nearly 250 branches nationwide, including five branches in Chicago and its suburbs.