Malaysian ministers mark Ugadi, the Telugu new year, by emphasising the festival’s themes of renewal and the importance of strengthening national harmony.

KUALA LUMPUR: Several Cabinet ministers extended Ugadi greetings, highlighting the festival’s significance as a time of renewal and a call for national unity.

Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said Ugadi marks the start of a new year and a period of hope.

“Let us all cherish the values of our inherited traditions while continuing to strengthen unity and harmony in our country’s diverse society,” he said in a statement.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Hannah Yeoh also conveyed her wishes for a joyful Ugadi and happy new year to the Telugu community.

Ugadi signifies the beginning of the new year in the Hindu lunisolar calendar.

The word originates from the Sanskrit ‘Yuga’ (age) and ‘Adi’ (beginning) and is widely celebrated in South Indian states.

In Malaysia, an estimated 500,000 members of the Telugu community observe Ugadi as a time for hope and blessings.

 The Sun Malaysia