A Sacred Thread on Her Wrist- Raksha Bandhan Celebrations at Saksham

Life is a calendar and every day is a festival, but then come the special days which are designed to celebrate some significant stories which are passed over generations. Just like every other year, Rakshabandhan came with the story celebrating the bond of siblings and to remark that day, an event was organized on 25^th August, 2018 by SAKSHAM- a CRY supported initiative, to celebrate the beautiful festival of Rakhi at Shahbad Dairy, Badli. It included guests from various fields such as Ms. Sarika Chaudhary (DCW), Ms. Ira Singhal (SDM Alipur, IAS) and Ms. Jyoti Rathi (DCPCR) as Chief Guests. The true colors of the event were reflected because of the presence of the children and a variety of volunteers were the ones who made it smooth. 

The event started with an address by Mr. Santlal, the Director of Saksham, in which he raised the issue of women security and how we need to ensure a secured environment to our sisters. He also included the fact that many girls are fulfilling the responsibilities of their families and how they're capable enough to take care of their brothers. It highlighted the need of bringing updates in the customs with advancing society. This beautiful message was then followed by an important highlight of the day, which was the song and dance performance presented by the children, and a welcoming, self-written, 'Swagat Geet'. The voices and the words which carried the real gesture of the kids was a true treat to the ears. The event then went ahead with the dance which showcased the harsh reality of our society against women, how they're harassed physically, mentally and emotionally and highlighted how we need to eliminate this evil from the society. 

More than five hundred people witnessed the revered token of love given by brothers as they tied Rakhis to their sisters suggesting the power women have by which she can safeguard herself as well as take care of others. After that, Sankalp Patra, a piece of oath, was signed by more than two hundred attendees, pledging to treat women and kids the right way and to stand for their rights. Then all four of the guests addressed the audience and shared their experiences and even declared to stand and help in every possible way. After that, people heard the struggle story of female cricketers from Shahbad Dairy, which included problems ranging from being questioned by parents on getting late to facing inebriated men in parks while practicing. They figured out a solution to this problem in the form of a dedicated cricket field, which has been identified and shall be allocated for their practice. Then, the two girls who stood against all the odds for the women of their society were recognized and appreciated for their efforts. 

Just like any other festivals and many other events, this event left some fond memories which people will cherish for times to come. It left some positive impact on how a sacred thread on her wrist can restore her faith in humanity.

- Kritika Yadav

CRY Volunteer