09-08-2025 : Speech of the Governor on the occasion of Rakhi festival organized at Raj Bhavan
Jai Hind!
On this auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan, I would like to extend a warm welcome to all the children, instructors, and associates from Bharat Scouts and Guides and SOS Children’s Villages of India. I wish you all a very happy Raksha Bandhan!
Today is not just about tying a rakhi or exchanging sweets; it is a celebration of India’s culture, traditions, and social values. This festival symbolizes the unbreakable bond of love, affection, trust, and protection. It also reminds us that our society is a fabric where everyone is committed to the protection and welfare of one another.
India is a country where every day is a festival and every festival carries a message. Our festivals not only strengthen social harmony but also celebrate every aspect of life. Diwali, Holi, Eid, Christmas, Gurupurab, Onam, Pongal, Lohri, Baisakhi—all these festivals have their own cultural and spiritual significance, but they all share one common goal: “To unite society, share emotions, and elevate humanity.”
Raksha Bandhan is a festival that has strengthened the bond of love between brothers and sisters for centuries. We find references to it from the Mahabharata era to the history of medieval India.
When Draupadi tied a piece of her sari around Lord Krishna’s wrist to stop the bleeding, he vowed to protect her for life.
In history, the story of Rani Karnavati sending a rakhi to the Mughal Emperor Humayun also highlights the importance of this festival.
Raksha Bandhan is not just a family festival; it has also become a symbol of women’s safety, respect, and social responsibility.
The land of Uttarakhand is not only of brave men but also of brave women, talented girls, and hardworking women. The girls of this state have made their mark at national and international levels in education, sports, science, music, mountaineering, and defense services. Their success is an inspiration for the coming generations.
The women of the state are not only becoming economically self-reliant through self-help groups, agriculture, handicrafts, local industries, and traditional herbal businesses but are also providing social leadership at the village level. Today, the women of Uttarakhand are empowering the state by moving from “women to strength” and “strength to prosperity.” Their contribution is extremely important in building a developed Uttarakhand.
Today, August 9, is also known as a significant day in Indian history—”Kranti Divas” (Revolution Day). On August 9, 1942, Mahatma Gandhi gave the call of “Do or Die” and launched the Quit India Movement against the British.
This day reminds us that we achieved independence through struggle, sacrifice, and self-belief. I want to tell all you children that patriotism is not just with a gun, but also with knowledge, service, honesty, and character. Today, we need another revolution—a revolution of education, environment, ethics, and self-reliance.
I am very pleased to know that children from SOS Children’s Villages are participating in this event today. This organization is a ray of hope for children who are deprived of parental care or have lived under the shadow of insecurity.
The SOS organization has proven that “families are made not only by blood but also by love, service, and values.” I wholeheartedly appreciate the dedication, work ethic, and spirit of service of this organization.
Bharat Scouts and Guides is an organization that teaches our youth to walk the path of discipline, service, and leadership. Scouting not only provides physical fitness but also strengthens character building, patriotism, and the spirit of cooperation.
To all the Scouts and Guides, I say that your motto of “Be Prepared” is the greatest need of the hour.
Dear children, you are residents of Uttarakhand, living in the lap of nature. It is our moral responsibility to protect and conserve this beautiful land.
The recent disaster in the Dharali and Harshil regions of Uttarkashi district is extremely saddening. The state administration is working rapidly on relief and rehabilitation. We must understand the challenge of preventing natural disasters and combating climate change. I pay tribute to all the departed souls who lost their lives in this tragic incident and express my condolences to their families.
Dear children,
You are not just the future of India—you are its present as well. You have immense potential, energy, and the power of innovation. To achieve success in life, I want to give you a few suggestions:
Dream big, but also make a plan to turn it into reality.
Never lose your moral values. Honesty, discipline, and a sense of duty are your true assets.
Never be afraid of practice—practice makes perfect.
Always respect your parents, teachers, and society.
Along with your studies, be sure to participate in sports, yoga, community service, and creative activities.
These will certainly form the basis of your success.
Through this festival, I extend my heartfelt wishes to every boy and girl present here for their bright, prosperous, and self-reliant future.
May your life be filled with knowledge, compassion, resolve, and service. With this wish, I conclude my address.
Jai Hind!