Makar Sankranti celebrates harmony with nature: UP CM Yogi Adityanath

GORAKHPUR: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who is also the head of Gorakshpeeth, on Sunday congratulated the people of the state on the occasion of Makar Sankranti/Khichdi festival and wished them happiness.
"Makar Sankranti is a festival which celebrates harmony with nature while worshipping the father of the world, Sun, and nature. The festival of Makar Sankranti is celebrated in different names and forms throughout the country," Yogi said.
"Makar Sankranti is also celebrated as Khichdi festival in North India. On this auspicious occasion, lakhs of 'kalpvasis' stay in Prayagraj for a month, meditating and performing rituals. People have started taking the holy bath in Prayagraj and other places of pilgrimage in the state with great enthusiasm on Makar Sankranti. Lakhs of devotees have come to Gorakhpur to offer holy pot of faith to Lord Shiva incarnate Gorakhnath," he added.
He said Uttarayan of Suryadev on this festival was considered auspicious for starting new works.
"Lakhs of devotees are celebrating the festival in Prayagraj and Gorakhpur and other pilgrimage centres like Garhmukteshwar in Hapur, Kachla Ghat in Badaun, Shuk Teerth in Muzaffarnagar, Kashi etc.," the CM remarked, pointing out that people are taking bath in rivers and lakes and making donations, which had a special importance in Sanatan culture.
Yogi said the administration had made all arrangements for the safety and convenience of devotees on Makar Sankranti. The presence of lakhs of devotees in Gorakhpur will offer holy porridge of faith throughout the day. "Traditional events are also starting on Makar Sankranti and a month-long Khichdi fair has started in the Gorakhnath temple. Special care has been taken for the safety and convenience of devotees," he said.
"Jagatpita Surya is the controller of the entire world. May his grace remain on the entire state, and on every devotee," Yogi said.