Chandigarh January 29: Haryana Governor Mr. Satyadeo Narain Arya and Chief Minister Mr Manohar Lal have greeted the people of the State on the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami and Chhotu Ram Jayanti.

In a message issued on the eve of Basant Panchami and Chhotu Ram Jayanti here today, Mr Satyadeo Narain Arya said that festival of Basant Panchami symbolizes new energy, new ambition and new vigour. May this festival bring immense happiness and prosperity in everyone’s live, he added.

Mr Arya said that Deenbandhu Sir Chhotu Ram has done a lot for the welfare of farmers. He was instrumental in empowering farmers in pre-Independence era and getting pro-farmers law enacted. He had fought for farmers' rights during the British rule.

Extending his greetings to the people, Chief Minister Mr Manohar Lal said that on Basant Panchami, Saraswati Puja is celebrated with traditional fervor as people worship idols of the Goddess. “I wish that Goddess of Knowledge Maa Saraswati will bestow all with wisdom and knowledge so that we contribute to the progress of the State and the Country to our own capacity”, he added.

Mr Manohar Lal described Deenbandhu Sir Chhotu Ram as a visionary leader who selflessly worked for the welfare of farmers. His contribution towards the welfare of farmer, poor and labourer could never be forgotten, he added. He further said that Sir Chhotu Ram was instrumental in getting the law passed against the zamindari pratha (landlordism) which was prevailing during the British Rule.