President, Vice President greet people on Raksha Bandhan

New Delhi: President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President Hamid Ansari on Sunday greeted the people on Raksha Bandhan, saying the festival celebrates the sacred bond of commitment between brothers and sisters.

"On the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan, I offer my warm greetings and good wishes to all fellow citizens," the President said in his message here.

"May Raksha Bandhan -- symbolising the virtues of love, affection and mutual trust -- bring happiness and prosperity to all people of our country. I hope the day is an occasion for all of us to renew the spirit of fraternity among the citizens of India," Kovind said.

Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi will be celebrated in parts of the Indian subcontinent on August 7, when Hindu women of all ages tie sacred threads on the wrists of their brothers who vow to protect them.

Ansari said: "Raksha Bandhan reaffirms the strong bond of love and affection between brothers and sisters and upholds the high place traditionally accorded to women in our society."

"On this occasion, let us rededicate ourselves to upholding the dignity and respect of women in our country."

IANS