Chennai, 05 January (H.S.) : Union Home Minister Amit Shah participated in a grand Pongal festival celebration organized by the BJP Mahila Morcha at Mannarpuram on Monday.

During the event, a sweet delicacy was prepared in one thousand eight decorated pots that were attractively arranged with sugarcane placed around them. Shah, who was accorded a warm reception upon his arrival at the venue, joined party members in the traditional process of preparing the dish. These events, often referred to as Namma Ooru Modi Pongal, are organized by the party to celebrate the harvest festival and connect with the local masses.

Several prominent leaders accompanied the Home Minister during the celebrations, including Mahila Morcha chief Vanathi Srinivasan and BJP state president Nainar Nagenthran. Union Minister L Murugan and former state president K Annamalai were also present at the gathering. Earlier in the day, marking the concluding part of his two-day visit to the state, Shah visited the ancient Sri Jambukeshwar Akilandeshwari temple in Thiruvanaikaval and the Sri Ranganatha Swamy temple in Srirangam to offer prayers.

On the previous day, January 4, the Home Minister addressed the valedictory session of a public connect campaign in nearby Pudukkottai. This campaign, led by state chief Nagenthran, was titled Tamilagam Thalai Nimira Tamilanin Payanam.

Authorities stated that the visit underscored the importance of cultural integration and direct interaction with the people of the region. The visit concluded with a focus on local traditions and spiritual heritage before the minister's departure.

The entire event saw a large turnout of supporters and local residents who gathered to witness the festive proceedings.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary