Celebrating Raksha Bandhan with a Green Initiative in Sanawadia

Sanawadia: Traditionally, Raksha Bandhan symbolizes the bond between siblings, but in Sanawadia, this festival has taken on a unique twist by promoting environmental conservation. Padma Shri Dr. (Mrs.) Janak Palta McGilligan celebrated her 41st Raksha Bandhan by planting 50 saplings. This remarkable tradition, which has been ongoing for 40 years, was carried forward with great enthusiasm this year.

On August 28, 2026, during an event organized by the Jimmy and Janak McGilligan Foundation for Sustainable Development, Janak Didi, along with her brother Rajendra Ochani and fellow environmental enthusiasts, participated in a collective planting of saplings behind her home 'Giridarshan' on Duthni Tekri. Together, they planted 50 saplings and pledged to care for them.

A Tradition Since 1986

Unique Tradition Since 1986

Janak Didi shared that the tradition of planting trees on Raksha Bandhan began in 1986. Her involvement with training tribal girls started after a chance meeting on a train, which led to a close bond with Rajendra Ochani and his wife Jyoti.

When asked what gift she would like for her first Rakhi, she expressed her preference for a plant over traditional gifts like sarees or suits. Since then, the practice of planting and nurturing a sapling on Raksha Bandhan has continued.

A Message of Environmental Protection

Promoting Nature Conservation

Janak Didi's initiative aims not only to plant trees but also to connect the festival of Raksha Bandhan with the message of environmental protection. She believes that just as siblings vow to protect each other, humans should also take responsibility for safeguarding nature and the environment.

The saplings planted during this year's Raksha Bandhan serve as a reminder to enhance greenery, care for trees, and create a better environment for future generations.

Inauguration with Prayer and Conch Shell

Program Commencement with Conch Shell and Prayer

The event commenced with the sound of a conch shell blown by renowned cardiologist Dr. Bharat Rawat. Following this, Janak Didi, Dr. Prakash Kaushal, Dr. Priya Sharma, and children participated in a prayer session. The program emphasized raising awareness about environmental conservation.

Dr. Bharat Rawat and gynecologist Dr. Neerja Pauranik called for action to save the environment, after which all siblings and environmental enthusiasts planted 50 saplings together.

Participants from Various Regions

Brothers and Sisters from Various Cities

This unique Raksha Bandhan event attracted participants not only from Sanawadia but also from Lucknow, Delhi, Gwalior, Indore, and nearby villages. Social workers, educators, medical professionals, environmentalists, and villagers from various fields joined the celebration.

Among those present were foundation trustee Anuradha Dubey, Prof. Ashish Dubey, village deputy sarpanch Prakash Rawalia, chartered accountant Lakshman Khandelwal, social worker Vidyavati Rawat, director of Acropolis Dr. Anurag Tiwari, and many others.

Emphasis on Plant Care

Focus on Plant Care

The program emphasized that the initiative should not end with planting but should also include regular care for the saplings. The Indore Forest Department and Organic Setu supported the planting and subsequent care efforts. Organizers stressed that the initiative would only be meaningful if the planted saplings are nurtured until they grow into trees.

A Tradition of Environmental Protection

Tradition of Environmental Conservation

Janak Didi's tradition of planting trees on Raksha Bandhan has evolved into a significant initiative for environmental protection over the past four decades. While the festival symbolizes the bond between siblings, it also highlights the responsibility towards nature.

By planting 50 saplings this year, Janak Didi and her companions reiterated that festivals can be made more meaningful by linking them to social and environmental responsibilities.

At the end of the program, Janak Didi expressed heartfelt gratitude to all brothers, sisters, environmental enthusiasts, collaborating organizations, and attendees. She emphasized the importance of continuing this commitment to environmental protection in the future.