On the auspicious Odia New Year and Pana Sankranti, BJP National Vice-President and party's Kendrapara Lok Sabha candidate Baijayant Panda on Sunday offered prayers at various temples.
Panda also attended a grand 'Hindu Ekata Divas Rally' organised by various outfits in Kendrapara district. The BJP VP also interacted with people and distributed 'Pana', a traditional cool drink to the participants.
"Today on the occasion of Pana Sankranti, I extend my wishes on New Year. I had the opportunity to offer prayers and participate in the rally on the special day," said Panda. People from different parts of the district turned up in large numbers to attend the grand rally.
"Today is Odia New Year and Hanuman Jayanti, and it is a special day as everybody gets united on this day and take part in this grand rally," said an organiser.
According to people, it is not for a particular section, rather others also participated in the rally which signifies brotherhood and unity.
"We are happy that we are celebrating New Year and Hanuman Jayanti. It is a special programme to unite everybody on this occasion," said a local.
"We are happy that Kendrapara Lok Sabha candidate Baijayant Panda also attended the event which aims at uniting people, protecting the society and creating a new Kendrapara," said another resident.