Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday wrote to citizens across the country extending his warm wishes for the festivals of Makar Sankranti, Magh Bihu and Pongal, which mark the harvest season in different parts of India.
In a letter, the Prime Minister said that this festival is a symbol of hope and positivity. He said that Sankranti is celebrated in different forms across the country, but all the celebrations share the same spirit and enthusiasm.
Highlighting its importance for farmers, he said that this festival is an opportunity to express gratitude towards those who nurture the country with their hard work.
While wishing Magh Bihu, Prime Minister Modi described the festival as a reflection of Assamese culture and a celebration of joy, affection and brotherhood. He said Magh Bihu marks the conclusion of the harvest season and encourages a feeling of gratitude and contentment. The Prime Minister also appreciated the contribution of farmers and wished peace, good health and success for all.
On the occasion of Pongal, the Prime Minister greeted people by calling him ‘Vanakkam’ and said that the festival reflects the close relationship between man and nature. He said Pongal is a celebration of agriculture, rural life and dignity of labour, which brings families together and strengthens social bonds.
Describing Pongal as a symbol of the richness of Tamil traditions, he said India is proud to be the home of Tamil language, one of the oldest languages in the world.
Magh Bihu, a major harvest festival of Assam, marks the end of the harvest season in Magh and is celebrated with a community feast.
Along with Lohri, Pongal, Sankranti and Uttarayan, it represents the diverse ways of celebrating harvest festivals across India.
The festival of Lohri, especially in Northern India, is celebrated with bonfires, traditional food and folk songs, adding warmth and joy to the festive season.
The Prime Minister will attend the Pongal celebrations organized at the residence of Union Minister L Murugan in the capital today.