India News | Odisha Assembly LoP Naveen Patnaik, Army Chief Celebrate Raksha Bandhan with Students, Brahma Kumari Sisters
Get latest articles and stories on India at LatestLY. Raksha Bandhan was celebrated across political and military circles, with Brahma Kumari sisters, students and BJD leaders celebrating the festival with Odisha Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik at Naveen Niwas, while schoolchildren tied Rakhis to Chief of Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth as part of the Army's 'Bharat Raksha Parv'.
Bhubaneswar (Odisha) [India], August 28 (ANI): Raksha Bandhan was celebrated with traditional fervour across Odisha and among the armed forces, highlighting themes of brotherhood, affection and the bond between citizens and those who protect the nation.
In Bhubaneswar, Brahma Kumari sisters, students and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leaders celebrated Raksha Bandhan with Odisha Leader of Opposition and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik at his residence, Naveen Niwas.
Also Read | Bank Holidays in September 2026: Full State-Wise RBI Holiday List.
The celebrations marked the festival's traditional message of affection and the bond between brothers and sisters. Members participating in the programme tied Rakhi to Patnaik and extended their greetings on the occasion.
Meanwhile, the Indian Army marked Raksha Bandhan under its 'Bharat Raksha Parv' initiative, with schoolchildren tying Rakhis to Chief of Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth.
Also Read | Stock Market Holidays in September 2026: Full List of NSE and BSE Closures.
The Army shared visuals of the celebration on social media, describing the interaction as a reflection of the bond between the country's citizens and its armed forces.
In a post marking the occasion, the Army said, "On the auspicious occasion of #RakshaBandhan, school children tied Rakhis to #GeneralDhirajSeth, #COAS. In their tiny hands and innocent smiles lay a profound message of love and gratitude."
The Army said the event highlighted the "eternal bond of trust and affection between the citizens of the nation and its Army."
The celebrations come as Raksha Bandhan is observed across the country as a festival symbolising the bond of protection, trust and affection between siblings.
The Indian Army has traditionally used occasions such as Raksha Bandhan to connect with civilians and highlight the relationship between soldiers and the communities they serve.
The festival also carries a wider message of solidarity and gratitude towards those entrusted with protecting the country, with citizens expressing their appreciation for the armed forces. (ANI)
(The above story is verified and authored by ANI staff, ANI is South Asia's leading multimedia news agency with over 100 bureaus in India, South Asia and across the globe. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)