On the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, an endearing tradition will unfold in the heart of New Delhi as Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Pakistani sister, Qamar Mohsin Sheikh, travels to tie a 'rakhi' on his wrist. This heartwarming gesture, rooted in a bond that transcends borders, has been ongoing for over three decades, symbolizing the essence of Raksha Bandhan - the celebration of the sibling bond.
Qamar Mohsin Sheikh, originally from Pakistan, moved to Ahmedabad after her marriage and has been tying a rakhi to PM Modi for more than 30 years. The pandemic forced her to adapt, as she couldn't visit in person, but she continued to send homemade 'rakhis' by post, accompanied by her heartfelt wishes. Last year, she even sent her best wishes for the 2024 general election, a testament to the sincere connection she shares with the Prime Minister.
This year, Mrs. Shaikh eagerly anticipates the opportunity to meet PM Modi face-to-face, aiming to personally celebrate the festival with him. In addition to the rakhi, she plans to gift him a book on agriculture, recognizing his fondness for reading. Her affectionate gesture underlines the power of shared traditions in fostering mutual respect and understanding.
Recalling her earlier interactions with PM Modi, Qamar Mohsin Sheikh mentioned that she used to express her wish for him to become the Prime Minister while tying the rakhi. His affirmations, coupled with his assurance that her wishes would be fulfilled by God, reflect the profound connection they share beyond the traditional sibling relationship.
Raksha Bandhan, a celebration that marks the bond of love between siblings, takes on a deeper significance in this context. The festival, set to be observed on August 30 this year, involves sisters tying rakhis on their brothers' wrists as a gesture of love and protection. In return, brothers vow to support and safeguard their sisters. This timeless tradition between Qamar Mohsin Sheikh and PM Modi showcases how a simple ritual can foster goodwill and cross-border camaraderie.
In a world often characterized by geopolitical tensions, this story serves as a heartening reminder that humanity's shared values and emotions can bridge gaps and create meaningful connections. The enduring tradition between PM Modi and his Pakistani sister reaffirms the adage that love knows no boundaries, and that even the most complex of issues can be eased by the warmth of personal relationships.