The Chief Minister of the state, Vishnu Deo Sai, performed Govardhan Puja with traditional rituals at the camp office in Bagia on the auspicious day of the festival; His wife Kaushalya Sai was also with him during the Puja.
The Chief Minister offered prayers to cows, applied tilak and prayed for the happiness, prosperity and progress of the people of Chhattisgarh.
Emphasising the connotations of religion and cultural importance of Govardhan Puja, the CM said the festival is celebrated to commemorate the Govardhan Leela of Lord Krishna. He said it was a significant day for practicing Sanatanism and to reflect that reverence and thanks on nature and cattle.
The importance of protecting nature, the environment and all living beings was symbolised through the Govardhan Leela of Lord Krishna as represented by the Chief Minister in his message. The festival also highlights values of one and united cooperation He added.
CM Sai also pointed out the importance of the traditional Gaura Gauri festival of Chhattisgarh, which is considered a living symbol of the state’s rich cultural heritage and people’s traditions, belief and social harmony.
Such festivals are deeply related to the traditional culture, rural life, and land of the mountain, he said. They do not just hold the state in a state of cultural identity, but also reinforce the values of love, harmony and unity within society.
In his address, the Chief Minister welcomed the people during the occasion and prayed that the festival would give happiness, prosperity and progress to all the families in the state.