In a heartwarming gesture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented his shawl to a young girl who showcased her singing talents during the Pongal celebrations at the residence of Union Minister of State L Murugan in the national capital on Sunday.
Following the young singer’s performance, she respectfully touched PM Modi’s feet, prompting the Prime Minister to extend his shawl to her as a special gesture. Earlier in the day, while conveying Pongal greetings, PM Modi emphasized that the festival symbolizes the sentiment of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.’
Participating in the Pongal celebrations at the residence of Union Minister of State (MoS) L Murugan in Delhi, PM Modi acknowledged the diverse festivals being celebrated across the country, including Lohri, Makar Sankranti, and Magh Bihu.
Expressing his wishes for the festivals, PM Modi conveyed a sense of familial celebration, stating, “Wish you all a very happy Pongal! On this pious occasion, I wish happiness, prosperity, and contentment to flow in your lives. Today, I feel like I am celebrating Pongal with my kith and kin.”
Telangana Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan also graced the occasion. The Prime Minister emphasized the theme of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat,’ stating that the festival of Pongal reflects this unity and will contribute to the envisioned ‘Viksit Bharat’ of 2047.
Highlighting the agricultural connection to festivals, PM Modi quoted Saint Tiruvallur, emphasizing the importance of a good harvest, education, and honest trade in nation-building. He pointed out that Pongal, a harvest festival celebrated by Tamils, involves offering the first harvest to God, emphasizing the vital role of farmers in traditions.
Discussing agriculture further, PM Modi noted that over three crore farmers in the country are engaged in Shree Anna (millet grains) production. He encouraged the promotion of Shree Anna, emphasizing the direct benefits to these three crore farmers.
The Prime Minister concluded the celebration by enjoying a cultural program at Murugan’s residence, underscoring the significance of Pongal as a harvest festival expressing gratitude to the Sun, nature, and farm animals for a bountiful harvest. Pongal celebrated over four days, marks the auspicious beginning of the Tamil month called Thai.
