ABU DHABI: Members of the Indian community turned up in large numbers at the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi to mark Raksha Bandhan, an Indian festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.
Over 2,500 devotees and workers from labour camps across the seven emirates, many of whom live away from their families and loved ones, attended a special event organised on Sunday to celebrate the festival.
The workers, who were welcomed by volunteers, received a special rakhi, the ceremonial thread symbolising love and protection—around their right wrists.
Traditional devotional songs were sung to the accompaniment of the tabla, harmonium and sitar.
Pujya Brahmavihari Swami, the head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir, addressed the assembly explaining the cultural significance of Raksha Bandhan.
“On this auspicious day, we pray that God guide and guard every worker, every visitor, and every leader of this beautiful nation and all those who call the UAE their home,” he said.
The devotees were also treated to a sumptuous meal.
“I am a loss for words, it feels like home, as though I am present with my family,” said Ranjit Singh, a labourer from Punjab.
Pradip, a blue-collar worker from Sharjah, said, “I feel so happy to be part of this celebration. We are grateful to the Mandir for inviting us to celebrate Raksha Bandhan together.”
Vinod Kumar Pal, a blue-collar worker who traveled from Ras Al Khaimah, said, “I felt truly blessed. It reminded me of my sister back home.”
Rishabh Manoj from Dubai who served as a volunteer said, “This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
On Monday, the BAPS Hindu Mandir team also visited labour camps to reach out to workers who could not attend the previous day’s celebrations.
