Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Sunday, 15 November 2026, joined devotees at Dhuri to mark Chhath Puja, offering prayers to Chhathi Maiya and Surya Dev for peace, prosperity, and good health for all residents of the state. The Chief Minister used the occasion to underscore Punjab's tradition of communal harmony and to publicly recognise the contributions of migrant workers from Bihar and Purvanchal.

CM Mann's Message at the Gathering

Addressing the assembled devotees, Mann said thousands of people across Punjab are observing Chhath Puja with 'immense devotion, enthusiasm and religious fervour.' He framed the festival as far more than a religious occasion, calling it 'a sacred occasion that symbolises faith, penance, discipline, family devotion and gratitude towards nature.'

He added: 'The Sun is worshipped as the source of life, energy, light and good health, reminding us of the invaluable contribution of nature to our existence.'

Tribute to Migrant Workers from Bihar and Purvanchal

A notable highlight of the Chief Minister's address was his tribute to Bihar and Purvanchal migrants settled in Punjab. Mann said these communities are making 'an invaluable contribution to the progress and prosperity of Punjab,' driving growth across agriculture, industry, and trade.

'Our relationship with our brothers and sisters from Bihar and Purvanchal is not merely limited to employment. It is a strong bond rooted in cultural exchange, mutual trust, love and brotherhood,' he said. Mann emphasised that every person living in Punjab is part of an 'extended family,' and that the state government respects the sentiments of every community, religion, and section of society.

Communal Harmony and the Spirit of Sarbat Da Bhala

Invoking the Punjabi ethos of Sarbat Da Bhala — the well-being of all — Mann said Punjab's real strength lies in 'its spirit of togetherness, communal harmony and unity.' He stressed that celebrating the festivals of all religions and cultures together is 'an integral part of our rich heritage.'

This comes amid a broader political context in which the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Punjab government has sought to consolidate support among migrant communities, who form a significant portion of the state's labour force. Chhath Puja, rooted in the traditions of eastern India, has in recent years grown into a widely observed festival across North Indian states with large migrant populations.

Significance of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja is a four-day festival dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, observed primarily by communities from Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh. It involves rigorous fasting, ritual bathing, and offerings made at sunrise and sunset on riverbanks and water bodies. The festival is known for its strict discipline and community participation, with millions observing it across India and in the diaspora.

As festivities continue across Punjab, Mann's participation signals his government's intent to remain closely connected with all communities that call the state home.