Kolkata, Nov 13 (UNI) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today
participated in Chhath Puja celebrations at various ghats along river Hooghly
in the city.
First she went to Takta Ghat in Hastings, and then to Dahighat in Khidderpore.
Speaking at both the places, the chief minister gave a message of harmony
and unity.
Ms Banerjee said, " In other states they do not give so many holidays during
the Durga Puja. But we give holidays during Chhath Puja. Even tomorrow is a
sectional holiday."
"We also give holiday for Buddha Jayanti. The Centre has done away with the
holiday for Christmas, but in our State, it is a holiday. We respect all religions
equally. That is our responsibility. We believe in the tradition of respecting
others," she said.
The chief minister said, " During Chhath Puja, our administrative system, along
with the police force, is there to help the devotees, specially our mothers and
sisters. The youths of different clubs provide assistance to the administration
during this time. These people will be offering support right until the Puja ends.
I offer my thanks to them."
"In the evening you will be worshipping Goddess Ganga and tomorrow morning
you will be worshipping God Surya. Perform the rituals safely and then go back
home safely. Be safe," she said.
"I pray to the Goddess to keep everyone healthy and provide justice to all.
Lakhs of our brothers and sisters across Bengal will be performing Puja at the
river banks. We have made arrangements for lights, mikes, police protection
and disposal of wastes. If you ever need any help, our Government, our youth,
our administration are ready to help you," Ms Banerjee said.
The chief minister said, "I have been coming for Chhath Puja celebrations
here since 1985. If I don’t, I feel bad. Earlier these ghats were in bad shape.
I repaired them with my MPLAD funds."
Ms Banerjee said a family has several members. Similarly, a society comprises
people fromvarious communities. Look at the stage here. It is mini-India.
"We eat semui during Eid, halua during Guru Nanak’s birthday; we participate
in Christmas as well as Chhath Puja. We participate in all festivals equally," she
said.
"In Bengal, no one will ill-treat you because you are from Bihar. That is not our
culture. We love everyone equally," she added.
Earlier, Ms Banerjee tweeted, " Heartiest greetings to all my brothers and sisters
on the auspicious occasion of Chhath Puja."
UNI BM