Rakshabandhan Message: Yogi Adityanath Stresses Women’s Safety and Respect

New Delhi, August 24, 2026 Ahead of Rakshabandhan, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has highlighted the festival as a symbol of responsibility, protection and respect rather than simply a ritual of tying a sacred thread on a brother’s wrist. Extending his greetings to the people of the state, he said the occasion represents a commitment to safeguarding the honour, security and self-respect of sisters and daughters. In a message issued before the festival, which will be celebrated on August 28 this year on Shravan Purnima, he described Rakshabandhan as a reflection of the lasting traditions and cultural values of Sanatan heritage. “The stories associated with this festival also embody this same spirit of love and protection,” he said. Referring to traditional legends connected with Rakshabandhan, Adityanath recalled the story of Draupadi, who tore a piece from her saree to bandage Lord Krishna’s bleeding finger, while Krishna later protected her during a time of crisis. He also mentioned the legend of Goddess Lakshmi tying a sacred thread around King Bali and accepting him as her brother. “These incidents demonstrate that affection not only builds relationships, it also fosters a sense of responsibility and protection,” he said. The Chief Minister further noted that as younger generations move ahead with technological progress, traditional principles should continue to shape behaviour and encourage wisdom, harmony and social unity. “These values strengthen our families, keep society united, and empower the nation by strengthening the values of equality, fraternity and social harmony enshrined in the Preamble of the Constitution,” he said. Adityanath said the principle of protection is also reflected in the work of a “sensitive government”. Highlighting the initiatives undertaken by the BJP government in Uttar Pradesh over the past nine-and-a-half years, he said that women’s safety, dignity and self-reliance have remained among its priorities. “Mission Shakti and the Chief Minister’s Kanya Sumangala Yojana have accelerated the safety, education and progress of daughters. The Chief Minister’s Mass Marriage and Destitute Women’s Pension Schemes have provided social security. The Women Entrepreneur Credit Card is an important step towards economic independence,” he said. He also announced that the free bus travel facility for women, first introduced on Rakshabandhan in 2017, will remain available this year from August 27 to August 29 to support convenient and safe travel. In his concluding appeal, the Chief Minister urged people to bring the spirit of Rakshabandhan into their everyday lives by showing respect and ensuring the protection of every sister and daughter. He also called on people to express affection and gratitude towards members of the security forces, police personnel and disaster relief workers by tying Rakhis to them. Adityanath further encouraged people to choose locally produced Rakhis and gifts, linking the festival with support for local workers and businesses. “This effort will encourage local labour, skills and enterprise, and further strengthen the resolve for a self-reliant and developed Uttar Pradesh,” he said.