"Raksha Bandhan" celebrated with religious fervour in Bihar

Patna, Aug 16 (UNI) ''Raksha Bandhan,'' signifying the undying ties of love and affection between sisters and brothers, was celebrated with religious fervour and enthusiasm in Bihar today.

Women tied colourful 'rakhis' to their brothers, binding them in an inseparable bond of affection and love, who inturn made a traditional pledge to protect them from evil. At some places, women demonstrated secular culture by tying rakhis to members of other communities.

Long queues were seen at 'rakhi' stalls and sweet shops which made a brisk business at various places in the region on the occasion. A large number of people visited tastefully decorated temples and offered prayers.

Reports of ''Raksha Bandhan '' celebrations were also received from other parts of the state.

In a departure from previous years, most of women and girls were waiting for the period beginning from 02:30 PM to 04:00 PM which was stated by the astrologers as auspicious for them to tie the rakhis to their brothers.

Two sisters of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar also joined the celebration when they tied the rakhis to him on the occasion at his official residence.

In his message on the occasion, Mr Kumar said the festival would nurture the love and brotherhood among various communities of the soicety.''The age-old culture of the nation gets strenghtened by such festival,'' he added.

UNI KKS ADG AB 2014