09/08/2025
Hemant Yadav Foundation Celebrates Raksha Bandhan with Our Bravehearts at Nathu La (14,250 ft), Lungthung (12,500 ft), and SSB Headquarters, Gangtok — Volunteers from 6 States Tie Rakhis to Soldiers as a Symbol of Gratitude, Unity, and National Pride.
Due to its sovereign nature, we are celebrating Raksha Bandhan at Nathu La Post," said Dr. Hemant Yadav, Social and Political Thinker.
India stands as a shining example of unity in diversity — a land where countless cultures, traditions, religions, and languages flourish side by side. From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, from Gujarat to Arunachal Pradesh, including the Seven Sister States of the Northeast, every region of India tells a unique story shaped by its people, history, and environment.
With over 1.4 billion people, 22 officially recognized languages, and all major world religions including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism, and others, India is a vibrant mosaic of traditions. Festivals such as Diwali, Eid, Christmas, Baisakhi, Pongal, and Holi are celebrated with equal enthusiasm across communities, reflecting mutual respect and cultural harmony.
Among all these festivals, Raksha Bandhan holds a unique place in the heart of India. It transcends religious and regional boundaries, symbolizing the sacred bond of love, protection, and unity. It is perhaps the only festival in the world where sisters from any religion or background can tie a Rakhi to their brothers without hesitation or discrimination — a beautiful representation of India’s inclusive ethos. In this spirit, the Hemant Yadav Foundation celebrated Raksha Bandhan with the Indian Army at Nathu La (14,250 ft) on the India-China border, and with the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) at Lungthung Camp (12,500 ft).
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Hemant Yadav, a renowned socio-political thinker and founder of the Foundation, stated: “We celebrate this festival of harmony and brotherhood at the international border in the spirit of our sovereign Constitution, which protects our culture, ensures our democratic rights, and gives us the power to live with dignity. Not just land, but even the skies and the 70,560,000 square kilometers of the Indian Ocean are part of our sovereignty. No country can dictate to us. Our Constitution is supreme — it tells us what we must do for our nation.”
On this meaningful occasion, 18 daughters from 5 states — Sikkim, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, and Assam — representing all major religions and ethnic groups of India, tied Rakhis to the brave soldiers posted at the international border. Participants shared heartfelt emotions: Shruti Verma (Chhattisgarh) said, “We are here to spread love and gratitude to our soldier brothers who stay away from their families so we can live peacefully.” Tuhina Chutia (Assam) remarked, “Because of our Indian Army brothers, our culture remains protected. Their sacrifices allow us to celebrate festivals freely.” Sukanya Sen (West Bengal) added, “We are enjoying Darjeeling tea and peaceful mornings thanks to their vigilance.” Daughter of Sikkim Mahima Thapa expressed, “Our smiles and happiness are safeguarded by the Indian Army, SSB and ITBP. We live peacefully in Sikkim because of them.” Krishna Kumar Bahun (Sikkim) emphasized, “Respect the Constitution — it gives us the right to celebrate our festivals.” The significance of Raksha Bandhan lies not only in its present-day celebration but in its historical and mythological roots. From Draupadi and Krishna in the Mahabharata to Goddess Lakshmi and King Bali, and from Rani Karnavati's Rakhi to Emperor Humayun, the festival has always symbolized protection, trust, and unity. This spirit of national integration and emotional bonding was at the heart of the Raksha Bandhan celebrations organized by the Hemant Yadav Foundation at the India-China border.
Additionally, 35 volunteers from the Foundation also celebrated Raksha Bandhan at the SSB Headquarters in Ranipool, Gangtok, further spreading the message of unity, love, and gratitude.
The Raksha Bandhan celebration began with a floral tribute at the statue of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, in Gangtok. Thereafter, Rakhis were tied to the Chief Secretary of the Sikkim Government, Mr. Ravindra Telang, and Mr. I. B. S. Yadav, Joint Chief Operating Officer, Skill Development Department Govt. of Sikkim at the Chief Secretary’s residence.
Chief Secretary Mr. Ravindra Telang extended his best wishes to the participants and remarked that Raksha Bandhan makes a special contribution to national harmony. He emphasized that such programs should be organized regularly to preserve and promote our culture.
