On August 19, 2024, President Droupadi Murmu marked Raksha Bandhan by hosting children from various schools across India at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Over 180 students from government schools in 16 states attended the event.
Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, expressed his gratitude to the President for her blessings and guidance, making this Raksha Bandhan particularly special for the students. He also engaged in an informal interaction with the children, discussing their goals and aspirations.
The event was further highlighted by a guided tour of the Amrit Udyaan, a historic garden within Rashtrapati Bhavan, showcasing India’s rich architectural and horticultural heritage. Students from different states shared their excitement and admiration, with Priyansha Pradhan from Sambalpur, Odisha, noting how the President’s words about sharing Raksha Bandhan’s spirit beyond siblings inspired her. A teacher from Arunachal Pradesh praised the President’s simplicity and warmth, which deeply touched her.
The celebration provided the students with a memorable experience and instilled a deeper appreciation for the country’s cultural traditions.