Safety first as Hindu ceremony takes place
THE Hindu Council of Wales celebrated Raksha Bandhan on August 2, the first religious event of its kind since Wales went into lockdown in March.
This annual Hindu ceremony usually involves sisters of all ages tying a talisman, or amulet called the Rakhi, around the wrists of their brothers, symbolically protecting them. They then receive a gift in return.
However, this year, due to social distancing measures, the Rakhi was tied by the person themselves and the number of attendees was limited to allow for two-metre distancing at all times. The event was organised in partnership with the Indian Honorary Consul Raj Aggarwal, who was dressed in his Royal Navy captain’s uniform. Like previous years, it supported the armed forces, emergency services and community leaders for their valuable contribution to the community.
Mr Aggarwal said: “It is such a special moment to be able to enjoy each other’s company today.
“It’s been so long that we’ve not been allowed to have any events or celebrations, and it’s something that’s been greatly missed. It’s great to see so many familiar faces here today.
“It is dedicated to friendship, mutual support, and protection for each other.
“The event has been a superb opportunity to reaffirm the strong bonds of brotherhood and emphasises the core values of courage, discipline, care and affection.
“That said we must still be vigilant to maintain social distancing and obviously we have made changes to the traditional running of this event and we have reduced numbers considerably on previous years, so that we can maintain social distancing and abide by Covid guidelines.
“I’d like to say a massive thank you to the community leaders and volunteers for looking after the elderly , vulnerable, shielding and needy during this difficult period.” Dignitaries attending included Brigadier Jock Fraser, Air Commodore Adrian Williams and Lt Col Jonah MacGill, representing the Royal Navy, RAF and army, respectively.
Karsan Vaghani, vice chair of Hindu Council of Wales, based in Radyr, added: “We are most grateful to the armed forces, emergency services and community leaders for sparing their valuable time to be with us today to celebrate Raksha Bandhan during these challenging times.
“In particular, our special thanks go to Captain Raj Aggarwal, who is always there for us, our ambassador and mentor.”