PEEL Regional Police welcomed several families from the Hindu Swyamsevak Sangh community (HSS Canada) to celebrate the Raksha Bandhan festival at the Emil V. Kolb Centre in Mississauga.

Raksha Bandhan is a Hindu Festival which originated in India dating back to the Vedic era and is celebrated by Hindu’s and Sikhs all around the world every August. Raksha Bandhan began as a brother-sister tradition in which sisters tied a rakhi (sacred thread) on their brothers’ wrists to symbolize love and prayers for their well-being, and the brothers’ lifelong vows to protect their sisters. The tradition has evolved to include rakhis tied between family and close friends as well as military and first responders as symbols of mutual respect and protection.

“It is our humble attempt to thank Peel Regional Police for their valuable services not only to highlight the efforts made by our police officers but also fosters mutual respect, understanding, trust and the importance for a cohesive progressive society,” says Ravi Hooda, a devoted volunteer and organizer of the event within Peel Region.

The festival’s vision of Vasudaiv Kutumbakam translates to “the world is one family”. It symbolises a spirit of universal fraternity, harmony amongst all sections of society, irrespective of race, religion or color and states that we are all responsible for each other’s wellbeing.

“Thank you for your prayers to keep our officers safe in the line of duty,” say the police.