President Ram Nath Kovind on Wednesday greeted his fellow citizens on Lohri (falling on January 13), Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Bhogali Bihu, Uttarayan and Paush Parva (all falling on January 14).

Stating that a majority of the festivals celebrated in our country depict our integral relationship with nature and agriculture, he, in his message said: “On the occasion of Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Bhogali Bihu, Uttarayan and Paush Parva, I extend my greetings and best wishes to all the fellow citizens living in India and abroad.”

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“A majority of the festivals celebrated in our country depict our integral relationship with nature and agriculture. The festivals of Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Bhogali Bihu, Uttarayan and Paush Parva, mark the harvesting season of crops as the winter season ends and ushers in the spring. People enjoy the fruits of good harvest and celebrate these festivals which also underline the need to preserve our environment. It is not only an example of Indian diversity but also that of unity in diversity of our country,” he said, as per a communique from the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

President Kovind also said that he prays to God that these festivals develop the spirit of fraternity among the people while prosperity and happiness prevail in our country.