Delhi is a City of Festivals 365 Days a Year, moving ahead with the Mantra of ‘Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi’: CM Rekha Gupta

New Delhi, 17 January 2026- A grand cultural programme was organised at Ras Vihar, Patparganj, Delhi, on the occasion of Uttarayani Kauthig 2026, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. The event was graced by the Chief Minister of Delhi, Rekha Gupta, along with the  Union Minister of State for Corporate Affairs and Road Transport, Shri Harsh Malhotra.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister expressed her appreciation for the remarkable enthusiasm, energy, and warmth of the Uttarakhand community residing in Delhi. Several public representatives, including MLAs Shri Ravi Kant and Shri Ravi Negi, municipal councillors and other dignitaries, were also present on the occasion.

The Chief Minister said that Uttarakhand is the motherland while Delhi is the workplace, and this bond symbolises collective strength and unity. She noted that such cultural events play an important role in connecting hill communities living in Delhi with their roots. The Chief Minister acknowledged the continuous and valuable contribution of the Uttarakhand community to Delhi’s progress in the fields of social service, trade, art, and culture.

Describing Uttarayani as a festival symbolising new beginnings, positive resolve, and renewed energy, the Chief Minister said that the celebrations inspire people to move forward with optimism. She appreciated the vibrant ambience of the programme, stating that the traditional attire, folk music, dances, and the large public participation brought the living cultural spirit of Uttarakhand vividly to life in the national capital.

The Chief Minister said that Delhi reflects the diversity of India, where cultures, traditions, and festivals from across the country are celebrated together. From Bihu and Dandiya to Ganesh Utsav and Uttarayani, Delhi truly stands as a city of festivals throughout the year. She reiterated that the Delhi Government is committed to taking the capital forward on the principle of ‘Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi’.

Extending her greetings to the people associated with Devbhoomi Uttarakhand on the occasion of Uttarayani,  Rekha Gupta assured that the Delhi Government stands firmly with them and will continue working collectively to build a stronger, more vibrant, and empowered Delhi.

Background: Uttarayani Kauthig

Uttarayani is celebrated in the sacred Hindu month of Magh as per the Hindu calendar. In Uttarakhand, the festival is also known as Khichdi Sankranti and Ghughutia in different regions. Fairs hold a special place in the cultural tradition of Uttarakhand, serving as platforms to showcase religious faith, local customs, art and cultural diversity. The Uttarayani Kauthig fair is traditionally organised in the Kumaon region on the day of Makar Sankranti and carries significant cultural, religious and historical importance.