BOLTON, UNITED KINGDOM, August 9, 2016 (The Bolton News): Bolton made its debut as the venue for a national celebration of the links between the Hindu community and the Armed Forces. Members of Britain’s Army, Navy and Air Force, Hindus from Bolton and people who travelled from as far as India, gathered at the Krishna Temple yesterday for a special event.
The Beverly Road temple hosted the start of Raksha Bandhan, a Hindu festival that celebrates bonds of protection. The national event organized by the Armed Forces Hindu Network was held in the town for the first time with the support of the Bolton Hindu Forum. There are about 950 Hindus serving in the Armed Forces, with 900 in the Army, 35 in the RAF and 15 in the Royal Navy and Royal Marines.
The Armed Forces Hindu Network held its first series of Raksha Bandhan events last year.
Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi, celebrates brotherhood and love, with Raksha meaning protection and Bandhan the verb to tie. For the Armed Forces, the festival is a chance to celebrate its links with the community, as well as improve engagement and emphasize the shared values of commitment, respect, integrity and loyalty.