Tue Jan 14 09:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Modi Celebrates Sankranti with Union Minister Kishan Reddy in Delhi

**NEW DELHI:** Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined Union Coal and Mines Minister Prahlad Joshi Kishan Reddy and several dignitaries for a grand Sankranti celebration at Reddy’s Delhi residence on Monday. The event, steeped in Telugu tradition, featured a traditional Tulsi puja, a bonfire (Boghi Mantalu), and cultural performances.

PM Modi arrived at Reddy’s residence at 6 PM and was greeted with traditional music and dance. He participated in the rituals, offering prayers to the Tulsi plant and lighting the bonfire. He also interacted with performers, graciously accepting their salutations.

The celebrations included a lighting ceremony with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, actor Chiranjeevi, renowned gastroenterologist Dr. Naageshwar Reddy, badminton champion P.V. Sindhu, and Minister Kishan Reddy. Traditional dances and songs showcased the significance of the harvest festival and its connection to farmers.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi expressed his joy at attending the festivities, stating, “Attended the Sankranti and Pongal celebrations at the residence of my Cabinet colleague Kishan Reddy. Witnessed a wonderful cultural program. This festival is a celebration of gratitude, prosperity, and rejuvenation, integral to our culture and farming traditions. Wishing everyone happiness, good health, and bountiful harvests in the times to come.”

Several other dignitaries, including Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya, Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Jyotiraditya Scindia, Bandi Sanjay Kumar, and others attended the event. The celebration was well-attended by Telugu community members residing in Delhi. The event highlighted the diverse ways Sankranti/Pongal is celebrated across India, symbolizing the nation’s rich cultural tapestry. Minister Kishan Reddy described Sankranti as a joyous festival particularly special to Telugu states, offering an opportunity for those who have migrated to return to their villages and reconnect with their roots.

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