Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS), USA 501(c) (3) Non-profit is celebrating Universal Oneness Day during the month of August all over the US.
This event is a part of the festival of Raksha Bandhan. The word “Raksha” in Sanskrit means “to protect” and “bandhan” means obligation. Centuries ago during challenging times in Indian history when India faced numerous invasions, sisters used to tie a simple thread on their brother’s wrist, reminding him of his responsibility to protect her. Over the years this celebration evolved from individual “brother-sister” relationship to “individual-societal” relationship and the responsibilities of individual towards society across all of its sections.
Working in that direction, volunteers of the HSS chapter of Arkansas got an opportunity to meet with Mayor of Fayetteville Mr. Lioneld Jordan on August 13, 2009 at 2.00 PM. The Meeting lasted for 30 minutes. The program started with HSS members introducing themselves to the Mayor. Later a presentation was made covering HSS goals, principles, background, its work and the purpose of Universal Oneness Day/Raksha Bandhan. It was emphasized that on the basis of the great principles of Hindu Dharma, HSS is building a volunteer force that can help the society and humanity at large.
Later a Rakhi was tied on the Mayor’s wrist by Aryan Prabhudesai and to Lindsley Smith, the City of Fayetteville Communications Director by Madhavi Kelkar. A box of sweets and a book on “Hindu culture and Dharmic tradition” was presented as a memento to the Mayor. Acknowledging HSS work and efforts, Mayor then presented each of the HSS members with a pin (representing a symbolic key to the City) as a token of appreciation.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks to the Mayor for his participation in celebrating the event.
