President Droupadi Murmu extended her heartfelt greetings to citizens across the nation and abroad on the joyous occasion of Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and Magh Bihu.

In her message, the President highlighted the significance of these festivals as symbols of India’s rich cultural heritage and unity in diversity. She expressed her wishes for happiness, prosperity, and harmony in every individual’s life during these auspicious celebrations.

Taking to social media platform X, the President wrote, “On the auspicious occasion of Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Pongal and Magh Bihu, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all Indian people living in the country and abroad. These festivals are a symbol of our rich cultural heritage and unity in diversity. These festivals celebrated in different regions of India express respect for nature. These festivals related to agriculture are also opportunities to express gratitude to our farmers for their tireless hard work. I wish that this holy festival brings happiness and prosperity in the life of every person.”

These festivals, deeply rooted in India’s agricultural traditions, mark the harvest season and reflect the cultural diversity of the nation. Despite regional differences, Lohri in North India, Makar Sankranti in various parts of the country, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, and Magh Bihu in Assam share the common spirit of gratitude, celebration, and respect for nature and farmers.

Makar Sankranti, observed on January 14, is a significant festival marking the sun’s transit into the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn), signaling the end of the winter solstice and the arrival of longer days. Devotees across India offer prayers to the Sun God and take part in rituals at rivers and ghats, celebrating the transition with traditional sweets like sesame ladoos, kite flying, and communal feasts.

(Inputs from ANI)