Dhuri (Sangrur), 15 November 2026:- Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday joined devotees in celebrating Chhath Puja, extending warm greetings and praying for happiness, prosperity, good health and well-being for all. Emphasising the festival’s message of faith, gratitude and togetherness, the Chief Minister said that Punjab’s rich heritage of communal harmony and mutual respect is strengthened when people celebrate each other’s festivals with collective enthusiasm.

Sharing a few glimpses of the Chhath Puja celebrations, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Today, I took part in the Chhath festival in Dhuri and received the blessings of Chhathi Maiya.”

Addressing the gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that thousands of people across the state were celebrating Chhath Puja with immense devotion, enthusiasm and religious fervour. “I pray to Chhathi Maiya and Surya Dev for peace, good health, happiness and prosperity for everyone, and hope that the bonds of love, mutual respect and brotherhood will continue to grow stronger.”

Describing the significance of the festival, the Chief Minister said, “Chhath Puja is not merely a religious festival but a sacred occasion that symbolises faith, penance, discipline, family devotion and gratitude towards nature. The Sun is worshipped as the source of life, energy, light and good health, reminding us of nature’s invaluable contribution to our existence.”

He further said, “The tradition of offering Arghya to both the setting and the rising Sun is one of the most distinctive aspects of Chhath Puja. It teaches us to respect every phase of life and every individual. The festival also inspires us to embrace cleanliness, restraint, discipline and a deeper connection with nature.”

Highlighting the contribution of people who have migrated to Punjab from Bihar and Purvanchal, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Our migrant brothers and sisters are making an invaluable contribution to the progress and prosperity of Punjab. Their hard work, dedication and commitment are playing a significant role in the growth of agriculture, industry, trade and several other sectors. Their contribution to the state’s development is immense.”

The Chief Minister added, “Our relationship with our brothers and sisters from Bihar and Purvanchal is not merely limited to employment. It is a strong bond rooted in cultural exchange, mutual trust, love and brotherhood. Everyone living in Punjab is a part of our extended family, and it is our collective responsibility to respect every section of society that contributes to the state’s progress.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the real strength of Punjab lies in its spirit of togetherness, communal harmony, unity and Sarbat Da Bhala. He said, “Our Government respects the sentiments of every community, religion and section of society. Our objective is to create an environment where every citizen enjoys equal opportunities, security and dignity. Celebrating the festivals of all religions and cultures together is an integral part of our rich heritage.”

The Chief Minister further said that the government had identified 104 locations across the state for Chhath Puja and made comprehensive arrangements to facilitate devotees. He said that the festival strengthens bonds between communities and promotes the values of faith, devotion, unity and collective participation.

Underscoring the contribution of migrant workers to Punjab’s development, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that their role extends across several sectors, including construction, trade, fruit vending and other economic activities. He said that Punjab’s progress is a collective endeavour and every individual working towards the state’s prosperity deserves respect and recognition.

Urging migrant labourers to prioritise the education of their children, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “I appeal to all migrant families to ensure that their children receive proper education and move forward in life. The Punjab Government is establishing good schools so that children from every background can access quality education, aspire to become officers and contribute meaningfully to society.”

Congratulating everyone on Chhath Puja, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann urged devotees to celebrate the festival with joy, happiness and devotion, while continuing to uphold the values of brotherhood, harmony and mutual respect.