MEMBERS of a Hindu group celebrated the annual festival of Raksha Bandhan in Bradford.

Raksha Bandhan is a festival that promotes duty of care and the obligation to serve those in need.

The festival is steeped in history and is a celebration of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakum - ‘the whole world is one family.’

Members of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) UK tied a Rakhi - a cotton thread that symbolises the universal oneness to serve and protect each other - to the Lord Mayor.  

Rajnikant Parmar, honorary president of HSS (UK) Yorkshire, North East, and Scotland region, explained the significance of tying the Rakhi to the Lord Mayor. 

"As the Lord Mayor of Bradford represents all citizens of the city, by tying Rakhi to him we are extending our good wishes and bond to all," he said.

Lord Mayor Gerry Barker thanked HSS (UK) for visiting the City Hall and for celebrating the festival with him.