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Keep tomorrow. Another day in between. Already in the store, the sale of Deda is going on. Rakhi festival will be celebrated on August 28 across the country. And it is in that context that 'Vedik Rakhi' has come up in the list of the sisters' favourites. Not glitter or artificial glitter wrapped in plastic. Special doors made of pure natural materials. And at the center of that amazing initiative is Surat in Gujarat.

Eco-friendly rakhi making is going on day and night in Goshalas of Surat. Instead of artificial plastic, natural organic material has been replaced this time. All these rakhis are made by mixing the dung well with multani soil, herbal powder etc. and pouring it into a special mould. It is being made by casting different types of molds including rose, heart shape, lotus. Mixing natural colors. Even basil seeds are being used. There is no ordinary thread for tying Rakhi, there is red-yellow thread. The sanctity of dung is well known in Hindu scriptures. The sisters consider the touch of cow dung to be auspicious on festival days, which has been used in almost all sacred rituals of Hindus since ancient times. Of course, this is not the first time, dung rakhi has gained popularity before.

Not just environmental awareness or religious beliefs, there is a special social message behind this initiative. This special initiative has been taken as a part of the 'Go Mata Kakah Abhiyan'. Special stickers written 'Go Mata-Rashtra Mata' are placed on the rakhis. The purpose of entrepreneurs is clear. While tying the thread on the wrist of the brother is not only a wish for his longevity but also a pledge to protect and preserve the cow. Goshala directors feel that this is the most effective means of conveying the movement demanding the status of 'Rashtra Mata' to the desi cow to the masses.

For those who initially hesitated to hear about cow dung, market demand says otherwise. The demand for this Vedic Rakhi is now high in the local market as well as in various states beyond the goshalas of Surat. To cope with the demand, the artisans are busy with work, forgetting to eat and drink. Lightweight and durable, these rakhis will also help keep the environment waste-free. So such a thought that goes beyond the traditional design has been welcomed by the common buyers. This commitment to environment along with tradition has given Rakhi festival another dimension.

This innovative initiative from Surat proves that celebrating festivals can bring not only joy but also a message of responsibility. Such a touch of nature in the bond of brother-sister love will undoubtedly make this year's Rakhi festival unique.