Honoring  Our Protectors

This year swayamsevaks (male volunteers) and sevikas (female volunteers) of Pratap Shakha and Shakti Samiti celebrated Raksha Bandhan ( brother-sister bond) with theme of mutual respect and protection. Rakhis were tied to those who have been at the forefront of protecting us during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The event took place at Friern Barnet Ambulance Station , where attendees had the opportunity to hear first-hand accounts of experiences during the pandemic. Young Swayamsevaks Armanji , Varaji , and Kamakshiji were seated in an ambulance and shared their knowledge of its features. Paramedic Amy Walton also spoke about the emotional and physical demands faced by frontline workers throughout the crisis.

Celebrating a Decade with Emergency Services

Hindu Swayamsevaks Sangh (HSS UK) has been celebrating Raksha Bandhan with the Emergency Services for over 10 years. The campaign , under the hashtag #ProtectOurProtectors was especially meaningful during the pandemic , when the Ambulance Service encountered numerous life threatening challenges.

Theresa Villiers MP attended and acknowledged the ongoing and dedicated volunteering efforts of HSS UK during the pandemic. She expressed appreciation for the organisation’s work in supporting local communities.

Community Outreach and Rakhi Tying

As part of the wider (Raksha Bandhan) outreach , various local community outreach (sampark) were carried out by Barnet Nagar volunteers. These included tying Rakhis to Mike Freer MP and Dr. Mike Greenberg , Medical Director at Barnet Hospital , to express gratitude and solidarity.

At Barnet Shakha , NHS heroes such as Nikunj ji Depala were honored with Rakhi. In a symbolic gesture , Rakhis were also tied to the Bhagwa Dhwaj (Saffron Flag) , representing unity, sacrifice and service.

Word of Appreciation

Dr. Harsha Jani heartfelt thanks to everyone who took part in the celebrations. This year’s Raksha Bandhan  was a powerful reminder of the ties that bind us – not just as families , but as communities supporting those who protect and care for us every day.