President Ram Chandra Paudel has said Maghi festival will further enhance fraternity, harmony and unity among the Nepalis from diverse cultures, religions and languages.
Giving a message of best wishes on the occasion of the Maghi festival today, President Paudel wished peace, prosperity, good health and happiness to all Nepalis living in the country and abroad. "The unique festival as Maghi fosters unity in diversity, which is identity of Nepalis," he believed.
"Different ethnic communities observe this festival in different names. Tharu people celebrate it with fanfare, while Magar community observes it in no less fervor. In Tarai region, the mark is as 'Nahan'," President Paudel reminded, adding that special food items as chaku, selroti, laddu, dhikri and khichadi are prepared and relished on this occasion.
The festival also reflects people's harmony with nature. From today, the Sun light moves towards tropic of cancer, bringing change in season.
Meanwhile, Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba has said that the festivals like Maghe Sankranti play a vital role in preserving national aspirations by maintaining unity in diversity.
In a message given today on the occasion of the Makar Sankranti, President Deuba has stated that this festival has encouraged all to work for the protection of our religion, cultures, rites and traditions.
President Deuba has also wished for happiness, peace and prosperity to all sisters and brothers of the Tharu and other community on the occasion of Maghi festival.