The festival of Raksha Bandhan which celebrates the sacred bond of commitment of protection between sisters and brothers was celebrated on Monday across Madhya Pradesh with traditional fervour and gaiety.
In view of Bhadra Kaal from this morning till 11.04 am and 'Sootak' for lunar eclipse starting from afternoon, the time to tie 'rakhi' has been provided as beginning from 11.05 am to 1.42 pm. On the occasion, idols were adorned at various temples. Besides priests, several women tied 'rakhi' on the idols of various deities.
A 'raksha sutra' was also tied to lord Mahakal on the last Monday of the holy month of Shravan in Ujjain. The last 'sawari' of lord Mahakal for the month of Shravan was also taken out.
Raksha Bandhan was today celebrated with traditional fervour and gaiety across Madhya Pradesh.
Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan greeted people on this occasion.
Terming Raksha Bandhan as an iconic festival, Chouhan said, "This festival is connected with the dignity of sisters besides long and prosperous life of brothers".
He also appealed to the people to celebrate Raksha Bandhan with a resolution to respect and protect sisters and daughters.
Meanwhile, a number of citizens visited the army cantonment on Sunday and tied rakhis to the soldiers at Yodhasthal in Bhopal. The event was an initiative of Dishanjali Education and Welfare Society.
A host of members of the society celebrated Raksha Bandhan with the army troops and exchanged their thoughts. The military venue wore a festive look as citizens interacted with the men in uniform and reiterated their faith in the army. The army personnel presented sweets to the guests and expressed their gratitude over a cup of tea.
A noble gesture by the society on behalf of the citizens was highly appreciated by the army men who are staying away from their families.