Various political leaders from different parties enthusiastically celebrated Holi on Friday, extending heartfelt wishes of unity, prosperity, and happiness to people across the nation. The festival of colors, which holds cultural and religious significance, saw leaders setting aside political differences and joining in the joyous festivities with their supporters.
From Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, several prominent politicians took part in Holi celebrations, engaging with their supporters, distributing sweets, and spreading messages of goodwill and harmony.
Yogi Adityanath Celebrates Holi at Gorakhnath Temple
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath participated in Holi celebrations at the revered Gorakhnath Temple in Gorakhpur, where he joined devotees in marking the occasion with fervor and devotion. As part of the celebrations, the Chief Minister actively took part in singing traditional ‘phag’ songs, a customary practice associated with Holi, adding to the festive spirit.
Additionally, Yogi Adityanath performed puja and aarti at the sacred site of Holika Dahan within the temple premises, symbolizing the commencement of the vibrant festival. His presence at the temple and participation in the rituals further enriched the cultural significance of the occasion as thousands of devotees gathered to celebrate.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Spreads Festive Cheer
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also took part in Holi celebrations, stepping outside his official residence to interact with people and extend his heartfelt wishes. Addressing the nation, he shared his message of unity and inclusiveness, stating, “Greetings to the countrymen on the holy occasion of #Holi… Greetings to everyone who is celebrating and observing, be it Holi or Ramzan.”
His words highlighted the spirit of togetherness that defines Indian festivals, where people from different faiths and backgrounds come together to celebrate in harmony. His participation in the festivities reflected the unifying power of cultural celebrations in the country.
Rahul Gandhi’s Holi Message on Social Media
Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, took to social media to convey his Holi greetings. Sharing a post on his official ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) handle, he expressed his wishes for joy and prosperity for all.
His post read, “Heartiest greetings to all of you on the holy festival of Holi. May this festival of colours bring new enthusiasm, new excitement, and lots of happiness in your life.”
Rahul Gandhi’s message resonated with the general sentiment of Holi, which is about embracing positivity, fostering social bonds, and spreading happiness.
President Droupadi Murmu Emphasizes Holi’s Message of Unity
President Droupadi Murmu also extended her warm wishes to the citizens of India on the occasion of Holi. In her post on ‘X,’ she highlighted the festival’s deeper meaning, stating:
“Heartiest greetings to all countrymen on the auspicious occasion of Holi, the festival of colors. This festival of joy gives the message of unity, love, and harmony. This festival is also a symbol of India’s precious cultural heritage. On this auspicious occasion, let us all together pledge to fill the lives of all the children of Mother India with the cocolorsf continuous progress, prosperity, and happiness.”
Her message underlined the importance of Holi as a festival that strengthens social harmony and national unity.
Prime Minister Modi’s Holi Wishes
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to ‘X’ to convey his Holi greetings to the nation. His message read:
“I wish you all a very Happy Holi. This festival filled with joy and happiness will infuse new enthusiasm and energy in everyone’s life and will also deepen the colors of unity among the countrymen.”
The Prime Minister’s words reinforced the essence of Holi as a festival that fosters national unity, energy, and positivity among people.
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Ministers Extend Greetings
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak joined in the festive spirit by extending his greetings to the people of the state. Speaking about the celebrations, he emphasized the peaceful and harmonious atmosphere prevailing in the state.
“I extend my best wishes to all on the occasion of Holi, which is being celebrated with great enthusiasm. It is also the month of Ramzan. We are all celebrating the festivals together, and everything is peaceful here in Uttar Pradesh,” he remarked, reflecting on the state’s vibrant cultural fabric.
Similarly, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya also conveyed his Holi greetings. Taking a light-hearted dig at the opposition, he remarked:
“I extend my best wishes to all on the occasion of Holi. There is no tension today, but only in the minds of the opposition. I extend my greetings to them as well. Holi and Friday prayers will be celebrated peacefully. There is no problem anywhere but in the mind of Akhilesh Yadav. I invite him as well to have some gujiya today.”
His comments added a humorous touch to the celebrations while reinforcing the overall spirit of camaraderie and festivity.
The Festive Spirit Across the Nation
Across the country, Holi was celebrated with immense enthusiasm as people gathered in the streets and homes, applying ‘gulaal’ (colored powder) on each other, dancing to the beats of traditional and modern music, and indulging in festive delicacies like gujiya, malpua, and thandai. The festival brought together families, friends, and communities, transcending barriers of caste, religion, and social status.
Holi, also known as the festival of colors, marks the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. It is a time when people forget past grievances, mend broken relationships, and celebrate the joy of life.
The Traditional Beginning of Holi Festivities
The festival of Holi commenced on Thursday with ‘Choti Holi,’ also known as Holika Dahan. The ritual involves lighting bonfires to symbolize the victory of good over evil, as per the legend of Prahlad and Holika. This event set the stage for the main Holi celebrations, which unfolded with joy and exuberance across the nation on Friday.
With leaders, citizens, and communities coming together in a vibrant display of unity and cultural heritage, Holi once again proved to be a festival that strengthens social bonds and spreads joy among people from all walks of life.