"Not just symbol of rich culture but also festival of gratitude": CM Dhami extends greetings on Harela festival

Dehradun (Uttarakhand) [India], July 16 (ANI): Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday extended heartfelt greetings on the occasion of the folk festival Harela, dedicated to nature and local traditions.
In a post on X, the CM wrote that the festival was not just a symbol of rich culture but also a festival of gratitude towards nature.
"Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all the people of the state on the occasion of the folk festival Harela, dedicated to nature and local traditions.
The folk festival Harela is not only a symbol of our rich culture but also a festival of gratitude towards nature. This sacred festival weaves together faith and the environment, reminding us that nature is the foundation of our lives, and its protection is our duty," the post read.
The CM also urged people to protect the environment.
"Let us, on this sacred occasion, resolve to protect the environment and inspire others to do the same," the post read.
The CM also planted a tree on the occasion at the Gorkha Military Inter College in Dehradun.
Since the festival marks the beginning of Sawan from this day, the festival is being celebrated by all in unique and special ways, while the season has already arrived in other parts of the country.
The festival is an indicator of greenery and the beginning of a new season. It is also believed that Lord Shiva resides in Uttarakhand, hence the importance of the festival increases manifold.
Earlier on July 15, the CM had stated that over five lakh saplings would be planted across the state on Harela, making it a celebration of both culture and commitment to nature conservation.
In a post on X, CM Dhami wrote, "The folk festival Harela, a symbol of our faith, gratitude, and commitment to preserving nature, will be celebrated with great joy tomorrow. On this occasion, a resolution has been made to plant over 5 lakh saplings, marking a new milestone in the connection between this folk tradition of Uttarakhand and a new initiative."
"Inspired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi inspiring call, "Celebrate the Harela festival, repay Mother Earth's debt - plant a tree in the name of the Mother," let us all come together to make this festival not just a celebration but a strong foundation for a green future for the coming generations," the post added on X. (ANI)