Goa CM Manohar Parrikar celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi at his residence

ANI photo

Panaji: Chief Minister of Goa Manohar Parrikar on Friday celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi with all customs and traditions with his family and fellow party members at his old house in Parra village of Goa.

The Chief Minister, wishing the people on Ganesh Chaturthi, said, "I wish that people enjoy the next year as a prosperous year, peaceful year and a year of peace and love which is the symbol of Ganesh Chaturthi. Ganesh Chaturthi, like Christmas, is a festival of all communities be it Hindu, Catholic or Muslim."

"Goan society will not be divided, despite efforts by some people to divide the society on communal lines," he added.

Michael Lobo. Deputy Speaker of Goa Assembly, who was also present at the CM's residence, said, "All the people from Goa go to their neighbours houses. The bond, the togetherness is so much that the Catholics, the Muslims go to the Hindu houses. This is the togetherness of Goa, people stay with all peace and harmony. This message should go across India to live with all peace."

Mauvin Godinho, minister of panchayat, was also a part of the celebrations.

"I am very happy to be part of the celebrations. I believe the roads may be different but the god is one. So this is what this beautiful tradition is all about," said Godinho.