PM Modi celebrates Raksha Bandhan with schoolchildren at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, 28 August marked Raksha Bandhan by hosting schoolchildren at his official residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, New Delhi, sharing high-fives, warm greetings, and candid moments in what he described as a personal celebration of the festival.
The Interaction
In a video shared on his Instagram account, Modi was seen laughing and exchanging high-fives with the children, who could be heard giggling throughout the session. He also blessed the children and spent time engaging with them individually.
During the interaction, one child asked the Prime Minister about his childhood dream. Modi's response was characteristically warm: 'Aap logon se milne ka' — 'to meet all of you.'
Modi's Raksha Bandhan Message on X
Earlier in the day, Modi extended greetings to the nation on the occasion via X (formerly Twitter), writing: 'Heartfelt wishes on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan. May this sacred festival bring happiness, prosperity, and success into all your lives. May the bond of love, affection, and mutual trust remain forever unbreakable — that is my heartfelt wish.'
About Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan is observed on Purnima — the full moon day — of the Hindu lunar month of Shravana, which typically falls in August on the Gregorian calendar. The festival celebrates the bond of love and protection between brothers and sisters: sisters tie colourful rakhis around their brothers' wrists and pray for their health and prosperity, while brothers pledge to stand by their sisters and offer gifts.
As part of traditional observance, sisters apply a tilak on their brothers' foreheads before tying the rakhi, and families exchange sweets. The festival is primarily celebrated across India and Nepal.
A Recurring Tradition
This is not the first time Modi has marked major cultural festivals by hosting children at his residence. The gesture is consistent with his broader public outreach, using personal interactions with young citizens to underline the cultural significance of Indian festivals. Notably, the video format — a reel on Instagram — reflects the Prime Minister's active use of social media to connect with younger audiences.
As the nation observed Raksha Bandhan on Friday, Modi's celebration at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg offered a rare glimpse into the informal side of the Prime Minister's public persona.