Raksha Bandhan

Rakhi (Raksha) symbolizes a spirit of brotherhood and harmony

amongst all sections of society, irrespective of race, religion, and

color.

On this auspicious occasion we inspire ourselves with the true

spirit of service and sacrifice for the welfare of the society and find

therein the highest spiritual fulfillment of human life.

Mantra for Global Peace …

Rakhi symbolizes a commitment to protect each other.

Rakhi reminds us to commit ourselves to our community and to the righteousness.

Rakhi develops cohesion in society

Rakhi creates a spirit of selfless social service.

Rakhi imparts the highest spiritual fulfillment of human life.

Origin of Raksha Bandhan

Ancient festival - originated from Bhavishya Purana

Initiation of new disciple by a Guru

Brother-Sister festival

Congregational ceremonies in modern time

Changing of Yagopavit – Sravan Poornima

Social Aspects

The tradition of Raksha Bandhan is not limited to bother and

sisters alone. Rakhi is also tied on the wrists of policemen, security

personnel, armed forces personnel, other public officials and statesmen.

In return, the public officials vow to protect the society and uphold

justice and unparalleled zeal and vigor.The sister-brother relationship

portrayed by the rakhi is far deeper than simply the brother protecting his

sister. It contains the basic message of universal brotherhood where

everyone looks to each other as a brother and sister of a common

global family.

In the Hindu tradition, the Raksha has assumed all

aspects of protection of righteousness from the forces of

evil. It is not merely that the spirit of Raksha manifests itself on

occasions of mortal peril to the life and honor of the beloved ones or to

the society. It is like the flow of bloodstream through every limb and

organ of the body, carrying strength and nourishment to every cell. As a

result, even a small wound anywhere in the body is promptly attended to

by the entire body. Every other limb spontaneously sacrifices a part of its

blood to heal that wound and keeps that organ healthy and strong.

This mantra is often recited when tying a rakhi

Yena baddho balee raajaa daanavendro mahaabalah

Tena twaam anubadhnaami rakshe maa chala maa chala

(I am tying a raksha to you, similar to the one tied to Bali the poswerful

king of demons. Oh Raksha, be firm, do not waver.)

This is how the society can live and prosper amidst all

kinds of challenges, either from within or without. A

society imbued with this spirit will see to it that every one of it

members is happy. The Hindu concept of well-being of the Universe

has always been:

Sarvepi sukhinassantu, sarve santu niraamayaah

Sarve bhadraani pashyantu, maa kashchitt dukhabhaag bhavet

(Let everyone be happy, let everyone be free from all ills, let everyone

behold only the auspicious; let no one be afflicted.)

The powers of intellect, body, material wealth, and influence

should be utilized for the uplift and service of others.

Vidyaa vivaadaaya dhanam madaaya shaktih pareshaam parapeedanaaya

Khalasya sadhorvipareetam etat jnaanaaya daanaaya cha rakshanaaya

(For the wicked , learning is for dry arguments, wealth is for satisfying vanity,

and strength is for harassing others; but in the case of holy men, these are for

imparting knowledge, offering charity and protecting others.)

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh(HSS)

Vishwa Dharma prakashenaVishwa shanti pravartake

(To establish peace and harmony in the world by propagating eternal Time tested Hindu values.)

Today, HSS celebrates Raksha Bahdhan as a festival, celebrating the bond, which we all share as sisters and brothers of the same global family.

May the power of this bond protect us all.

Guiding principles to the visionHINDU VALUES

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam!

The whole world is one family!!

Ekam sat vipraah bahudhaa vadantiTruth is one. The wise describe it in different ways.

Sarvepi Sukhinah Santu, sarve santu niraamayaahLet every one be happy. Let every one be free from suffering.

Hinduism a way of life …..

BalaGokulamhttp://www.balagokulam.org

.

To facilitate children to appreciate, learn and practice the Hindu way of life

To develop social awareness – Community Service– Environment Protection

Activities– Stories, Games, Art & Craft– Yoga, Meditation etc.

Developing Values …

Youth Conferences, Hindu Heritage Camp & Family Camps

Awareness programs

Awareness about Hindu Dharma

Through Lectures

Seminar on Hinduism for School Teachers

Exhibition on Contribution of Hindus to humanity

Share the treasure

Hindu contributions to world..– Yoga – Ayurveda (Medicine)– Science and Technology– Music– Food– Pluralism

Social Service(seva) Projects

Social projects in USA

- Help to Native Americans at Lakota, south Dakota

- Food for homeless

- Help local facilities like hospitals and homeless shelters.

Inter-Traditions/Faiths meetings

Promote better understanding…

Seminars and meetings with : leaders of ancient traditions like Native American, Mayan, Pagans, Jews, African Americans, Christian, Zorastrians, ….

NCCJ