On 26th August, members of the Adarsh Family Branch, part of the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS UK) in Liverpool, held a special celebration of Raksha Bandhan with officers from Merseyside Police. This heartwarming event brought together 65 young volunteers and children (known in our tradition as Swayamsevaks and Sevikas) alongside five police officers, in a joyful and meaningful exchange of culture and appreciation.

Raksha Bandhan, which means “the bond of protection,” is a cherished Hindu festival celebrating the enduring ties of care and respect between individuals. Traditionally, sisters tie a decorative thread, called a Rakhi, on the wrists of their brothers, who in return promise to protect and stand by them. In a broader sense, Raksha Bandhan is a festival of mutual responsibility, trust, and gratitude — values that lie at the heart of both Hindu tradition and civic service.

In that spirit, our celebration extended the Rakhi ceremony beyond the family setting to honour those who serve and protect our wider community — the police.

The event was led by our youngsters — the teenage boys and girls of the Shakha — who organised a vibrant and engaging programme. The afternoon included:

• Team-building games (Khel) to build unity and connection

• A Rakhi-making workshop, where children crafted colourful threads by hand

• A fun and educational Raksha Bandhan quiz to share knowledge of the festival

• Reflections and short talks on the cultural and spiritual significance of Raksha Bandhan

The highlight of the celebration was the symbolic act of tying Rakhis on the wrists of the Merseyside Police officers. With smiles, kind words, and warm gestures, we expressed our sincere thanks for their dedication to public safety and community service. The officers were touched by the sentiment and shared how honoured they felt to be part of the tradition.

At its core, this celebration was an expression of Hinduness (Hindutva) — not as a political concept, but as a lived way of being that values respect, service, gratitude, and harmony with all members of society. By reaching out and honouring our local police, we shared the message that festivals can be bridges — connecting cultures, deepening relationships, and nurturing mutual understanding.

It was a day full of laughter, learning, and love — one that our youth will remember not just for the fun activities, but for the deeper sense of community, civic pride, and cultural identity it inspired.

Radha Devi Susarla, Vinayak HSS (UK) Branch – Wakefield