New Delhi, Jan 14: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday extended greetings to citizens across the country on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti and other harvest festivals, underlining the festivals’ deep roots in Indian culture and their celebration through diverse regional traditions.

In a series of messages, the Prime Minister prayed for happiness, prosperity and good health for all, while invoking the blessings of Lord Surya, the Sun God.

“Heartfelt wishes to all fellow citizens on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti. May this divine moment, filled with the sweetness of sesame seeds and jaggery, rooted in Indian culture and traditions, bring joy, prosperity, and success to everyone’s life. May Lord Surya bless us all,” PM Modi said in a post on X.

Highlighting the spiritual significance of the festival, which marks the Sun’s transition into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara) and the beginning of the auspicious Uttarayana period, the Prime Minister noted its importance in Hindu belief. “May the Sun God proceed to the heavens; the Lord Sun is in Capricorn. In the Uttarayana, there is great merit; it destroys all sins. Wishing everyone a happy Uttarayan,” he said.

Emphasising India’s cultural diversity, Modi pointed out that Sankranti is celebrated in different forms across the country, reflecting local customs and traditions. “This sacred occasion of Sankranti is celebrated in various parts of the country according to local customs and traditions. I pray to Lord Surya for everyone’s happiness, prosperity, and excellent health,” he added.

Extending greetings beyond the pan-Indian observance of Makar Sankranti, the Prime Minister also wished people celebrating regional harvest festivals. “Happy Magh Bihu to everyone!” he said, referring to Assam’s major agrarian festival that coincides with Sankranti and marks the end of the harvesting season.

Makar Sankranti holds special significance as one of the few Hindu festivals observed according to the solar calendar. It is celebrated as Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Uttarayan in Gujarat, Magh Bihu in Assam, and by various other names across the country. The festival symbolises the end of winter, the onset of longer days, and gratitude to nature for agricultural bounty.

On Magh Bihu, PM Modi said the festival reflects Assamese culture and embodies “joy, warmth and brotherhood.”

He noted that Magh Bihu marks the end of the harvest season and encourages gratitude and contentment, while also acknowledging the invaluable contribution of farmers. He extended wishes of peace, good health, and success to all.

On Pongal, the Prime Minister greeted people with a “Vanakkam” and highlighted the festival’s celebration of the bond between humans and nature.

“Pongal celebrates agriculture, rural life and the dignity of labour, bringing families together and strengthening social bonds,” he said.

Traditionally associated with rituals such as taking holy dips, flying kites, community feasts and sharing sweets made of sesame seeds (til) and jaggery, the festival underscores themes of harmony, renewal and togetherness.

Leaders across the political spectrum and cultural figures also extended greetings on the occasion, with festivities being marked across states in keeping with local traditions, reaffirming the shared cultural ethos that binds the nation despite its diversity.

Magh Bihu, a major harvest festival of Assam, marks the completion of the harvest season in the month of Magh and is celebrated with community feasts.

Along with Lohri, Pongal, Sankranti, and Uttarayan, it showcases the diverse ways harvest festivals are observed across India. Lohri, in particular, is celebrated in northern India with bonfires, traditional foods, and folk songs, adding warmth and joy to the season.

The Prime Minister is scheduled to attend Pongal celebrations at the residence of union Minister L. Murugan in the national capital today.