Mumbai, August 29: Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan extended his Raksha Bandhan wishes to fans while also expressing concern and offering prayers for those affected by the devastating floods in Nepal.

Bachchan, who shared a picture of his wrist adorned with colourful rakhis on his latest blog, reflected on the enduring bond between brothers and sisters before turning his attention to the catastrophic situation in Nepal.

Speaking about Raksha Bandhan, the actor wrote, “May this bond of love, affection and care live eternally - the dedication of the relation between a sister and a brother, never to be broken or forgotten... its sacred thread tied to the wrist is the symbol of perpetuity in the relationship... its auspicious presence fortifies its reason.”

He then expressed his anguish over the scale of destruction caused by the floods in Nepal, saying that the visuals emerging from the affected areas were “unbearable to watch.”

“On a more serious note, the devastation of the floods in Nepal is unbearable to watch... the fury of nature can never be battled with... its respect needs the presence of the divine... we pray... for that in itself is beyond all... Affection and care,” Bachchan wrote.

According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), the death toll from the Bhote Koshi flood-related disaster in Nepal has risen to 626, while 2,426 people remain missing.

The latest search, rescue and relief update issued by the NDRRMA at 10 am on August 29 said Chitwan had reported the highest number of deaths, with 233 bodies, including human remains, recovered so far.

Nawalparasi East recorded 158 deaths, followed by Nuwakot with 51, Gorkha with 48, Nawalparasi West with 47, Dhading with 45, Tanahun with 31 and Rasua with 13.

The disaster has also affected personnel from several government and security agencies. The NDRRMA said those still missing include 27 Nepal Police personnel, 45 Nepal Army personnel, 13 Armed Police Force personnel, 15 Customs Office personnel and four Immigration Office personnel.

As rescue and relief operations continue, Bachchan's message added a note of solidarity and compassion for those battling the aftermath of the devastating floods.