Vice President Hamid Ansari today extended his greetings to fellow citizens on the occasion of Makara Sankranti and Pongal.
New Delhi, Jan 12 : Vice President Hamid Ansari today extended his greetings to fellow citizens on the occasion of Makara Sankranti and Pongal.
In his message, Ansari said these festivals mark the beginning of the auspicious period of 'Uttarayana' and harvest season.
"These festivals are celebrated in diverse ways with traditional gaiety and enthusiasm in various parts of the country. They reflect our glorious cultural traditions and promote the values of sharing, generosity and goodwill among people," he said.
He said that this auspicious occasion would bring amity, prosperity and happiness in the lives of all.
Makar Sankranti and Pongal are harvest festivals.
Makara Sankranti marks the commencement of the sun's journey to the Northern Hemisphere (Makara raasi), signifying the onset of "Uttarayana Punyakalam", and is a day of celebration all over the country. The day begins with people taking dips in the holy waters and worshipping the Sun.
Pongal is a celebration of the prosperity associated with the harvest by thanking the rain, sun and the farm animals that have helped in the harvest. It is celebrated by Tamils.
ANI