The word ‘Raksha Bandhan’ implies “a bond of protection”. During this festival, the sisters tie a thread of rakhi on their brother’s wrist. In return, brothers promise to protect their sisters for life. But there are some unsung heroes, the Indian soldiers (men of steel) deployed at the border. They selflessly devoted their lives to protect the entire nation. You may not share a blood relation with these soldiers. But they are like unrelated brothers who safeguard the nation. In freezing cold temperatures and scorching heat – they defy all adversities to make sure the rest of the nation can sleep in peace. And additionally, far from their homes, these soldiers put their lives at risk for the sake of their country. They make a huge difference to our lives without actually caring about their own.
This year, Raksha Bandhan and Independence Day are going to be celebrated on the same day, the 15th of August, which calls for double celebrations. Thus, it is a great opportunity to combine and rejoice two different celebrations in a unique way. The beautiful festival of Raksha Bandhan always manages to bring siblings together. It allows them to bond over memories, sweets and gifts. This year, it will be extra special for sisters whose brothers are posted in the armed forces. But let’s not forget the fact that the huge responsibility of protecting the nation stops our soldiers from celebrating this festival with their siblings and family members.
Take it as an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of Indian soldiers. You can celebrate Raksha Bandhan with them to thank them for protecting the lives of millions. You can send rakhi for soldiers stationed at the border who are guarding our nation and warm their hearts with love and wishes. This heartwarming gesture will have an emotional impact on the Indian soldiers. It will make them feel valued and create a sense of belonging among them.
How to Send Rakhi to Army soldiers in India?
- Anyone interested in sending rakhis for soldiers can simply pack them in an envelope, mention RAKHI FOR SOLDIERS as a heading and address it to- Indian Army Soldiers, C/O 56 APO or C/O 99 APO. The Indian Post will hand over the rakhis to Army Post. Army Post will further route them to the soldiers on the borders.
- There is a Pune based organization, SAINIK MITRA PARIVAR. They collect rakhis from people and send them to armed forces posted in more than 150 areas of the country. You can directly contact Mr. Anand Saraf of the Sainik Mitra Parivar via the website- http://www.helplineforyou.org/ganesh/english/saraf.htm for further queries.
Rakhi Celebration across India with Indian Army Soldiers
- Every year, women celebrate Raksha Bandhan with Border Security Force (BSF) personnel at the Attari-Wagah Border in Amritsar. They tie rakhi on the wrist of BSF personnel and offer them sweets as a gesture of gratitude for protecting the country from enemies. The women wish soldiers’ health, happiness and good luck in their missions. It boosts the morale of the BSF personnel and encourages them further.
- A group of girls from the local population of Poonch district tie rakhis to Army, CRPF and BSF soldiers deployed in border areas as a mark of respect and solidarity. During the event, the women interact with the soldiers and share their experiences about working under tough and challenging conditions. Many school girls and women also visit the army camps to tie rakhi on the wrist of soldiers as a goodwill gesture.
This Raksha Bandhan, let’s show some love to our soldiers by sending them gorgeous rakhis as a symbol of respect and gratitude.
