Raksha Bandhan – A Call for Sibling Unity Against Drugs: HGVS

Raksha Bandhan, a cherished festival symbolizing the eternal bond between brothers and sisters, is being celebrated with deep emotional resonance across India. The festival is a time when sisters tie rakhi on their brothers’ wrists, wishing them a long life, happiness, and prosperity. The essence of Raksha Bandhan is beautifully captured in the lines:

“My brother, my moon, my precious gem,
Nothing in this world could ever replace you.”

For sisters, nothing is more valuable than their brother’s well-being. Many sisters leave behind their childhood homes, relinquishing their share of property and inheritance, to embrace a new family in an unfamiliar place. Despite these sacrifices, they devote themselves completely to their new lives, keeping their brothers close to their hearts.

As sisters tie the sacred thread, they silently pray for their brothers’ protection, hoping that in return, their brothers will stand by them in times of need. However, in today’s society, many sisters are grappling with a distressing reality—brothers, fathers, husbands, and sons are being lost, not to external threats, but to the internal scourge of drug addiction.

While our brave soldiers lose their lives fighting wars and terrorism, a much larger number of young men are succumbing to drug addiction, heading towards a certain death. This growing crisis poses a serious challenge to families across the country.

In light of this, the Himachal Gyan Vigyan Samiti has issued a heartfelt appeal to all sisters this Raksha Bandhan:

• Ask your brother to take a pledge that he will stay away from drugs.
• If he is already involved in substance abuse, encourage him to quit.
• Urge him to avoid associating with those who use drugs.
• Motivate him to help others struggling with addiction to overcome it.

The Samiti also urges young women who may have fallen into addiction to consider how their habits could impact the brothers who love them dearly. The same brother who eagerly waits for a rakhi from his sister today could face a future without her if her destructive habits continue.

This Raksha Bandhan, let every brother and sister make a vow to protect each other from the menace of addiction. Let this festival be a reminder of the responsibilities that come with the rakhi—a symbol of protection and care.

May this year’s Raksha Bandhan strengthen the bond between siblings and inspire them to fight against the social evils threatening their lives. Let every brother give his sister the priceless gift of a life free from addiction, ensuring they can celebrate this sacred festival together for many years to come.

Warm wishes for Raksha Bandhan from the Himachal Gyan Vigyan Samiti.