Dhami wished people on Makar Sankranti

Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday extended hearty greetings and best wishes to the people of the state on Makar Sankranti and Uttarayani festival. In his greeting message issued on this occasion, the Chief Minister said that this festival of worship of Sun God, charity and religious devotion infuses enthusiasm and excitement in the lives of the people. This festival is a symbol of the rich heritage and cultural unity of our country.

The Chief Minister said that Makar Sankranti and the charity done on this occasion have special significance in Indian culture. This holy festival is also related to the beginning of auspicious works. The Chief Minister wished that this festival of worship of Lord Sun will infuse new energy and enthusiasm in the lives of all of us.

Devotees make offerings to the Hindu deity Surya on Makar Sankranti, a major festival on the Indian calendar. This day marks the first day of the Sun’s transit into Capricorn, marking the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days.

This festival is known by different names in different parts of the country like Pongal, Bihu and Maghi. Devotees performed rituals at different ghats in many parts of the country. In Gujarat, the festival is celebrated as Uttarayan as it marks the first day of the Sun’s transition into Capricorn. The state is famous for its International Kite Flying Festival.

After finishing the morning prayers, people gather on their rooftops with colorful kites. During kite flying festivals people are often heard shouting “Kai Po Che” to the losing team.

Apart from this, people also eat dishes like chikki, which is made of sesame and peanuts, and undhiyu, which is made of winter vegetables. Also known to strengthen the bonds of friendship, this festival is all about khichdi, flying kites, making sesame sweets and coconut laddus. Makar Sankranti gives a message that the winter season is now clearly leaving.