President, PM, Odisha Governor and CM extend greetings on Nuakhai

Bhubaneswar, Aug 28 (UNI) President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today greeted the people of Odisha on the occasion of Nuakhai, the agrarian festival celebrated widely across western Odisha.
Nuakhai marks the offering of the season’s first harvest to the Goddess and the seeking of blessings from elders within families.
Beyond being a festival of crops, it symbolizes family reunion, social harmony, respect for farmers, and the deep cultural connection between agriculture and society.

President Murmu, in a post on X, said: “On the occasion of the agriculture-based Nuakhai festival, I extend heartfelt greetings to all, especially to the people of Odisha.”
This festival is a sacred opportunity to show respect for agriculture and gratitude towards farmers. It is a symbol of goodwill and intimacy. “May Nuakhai bring happiness, peace, and prosperity to everyone’s lives,” President said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his wishes on X, posting: “Nuakhai Juhar! Best wishes on this special occasion. We express gratitude to our hardworking farmers and appreciate their efforts for society. May everyone be blessed with joy and good health.”
Odisha Governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati extended his greetings, saying: “My heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the people of the state on the occasion of the mass festival of Nuakhai in western Odisha. May everyone’s life be filled with happiness and prosperity by the blessings of Maa Samlei,” he said.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, in a video message, said, “Nuakhai, a vital part of our culture, it symbolizes prosperity and unity. May this festival bring new hope, happiness, peace, and prosperity to everyone’s lives.”
Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo also greeted the people, particularly those in western Odisha. He said, “Nuakhai is not just a harvest festival, it is the very soul of our culture. We bow before Maa Samaleswari and express gratitude for the first grains of the season”.
This sacred occasion binds families and communities together, reminding us of our agrarian heritage, timeless traditions, and the spirit of togetherness. “May Maa Samaleswari bless every home with prosperity, peace, and happiness.”
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, while extending greetings, highlighted the festival’s cultural and agrarian importance.
He said, “The unique essence of Nuakhai lies in its celebration of farmers, food security for all, friendship, and respect for teachers.
“As paddy harvesting begins, joy spreads across the region. Nuakhai reflects the progress of farmers and agriculture. It is not only a festival of new beginnings, but also of respect, unity, and harmony.”
Pradhan, who represents Sambalpur in western Odisha, is scheduled to celebrate Nuakhai at Sindurpan in Maneswar Block, Sambalpur.
He will later visit Maa Samaleswari temple, partake in prasad, and attend various Nuakhai Bhetghat-2025 events organized by Odisha Cultural Society in Sambalpur, Chitrotpala Youth Association in Nanda pada, and Samaleswari Youth Association in the Maa Samaleswari Temple courtyard.
The Odisha government has declared a two-day state holiday today and tomorrow on the occasion of the Nuakhai festival.