Congress Leadership Gathers at Hooda's Annual Lohri Feast in New Delhi
In a significant political gathering, the Congress party's top leadership, including Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, joined former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and his MP son Deepender Hooda for a lunch at their New Delhi residence on Friday. The event, which coincided with the Lohri festival, saw attendance from AICC general secretaries and numerous other senior Congress figures, highlighting the party's internal cohesion and outreach efforts.
A Cross-Party Affair with Over 85 MPs in Attendance
Hooda's Friday feast is an annual tradition, and this year's edition was particularly notable for its broad participation. Over 85 Members of Parliament, representing various political parties beyond the Congress, attended the event. In addition to the MPs, the gathering included almost all sitting and former MLAs, MPs, senior Congress leaders, and district Congress leaders from Haryana, making it a comprehensive political assembly.
According to sources, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra spent over an hour engaging with the Hooda family, underscoring the importance of the occasion. The presence of MPs from rival political parties drew significant attention, as they enjoyed pure, traditional Haryanvi-style cuisine, fostering a rare moment of bipartisan camaraderie in the often-contentious political landscape.
Serious Discussions and Media Presence Mark the Event
Beyond the festive atmosphere, the lunch provided a platform for substantive dialogue. Some senior leaders were observed having serious discussions on contemporary issues, reflecting the event's role as a forum for political exchange. Many old colleagues seized the opportunity to reconnect and share views, enhancing networking and collaboration across party lines.
The event also attracted prominent personalities from the media world, adding to its visibility and significance. This media presence underscores the feast's role not just as a social gathering but as a key moment in India's political calendar, where alliances and strategies can be informally discussed and shaped.
Hooda's Longstanding Tradition of Hosting Lohri and Makar Sankranti Lunches
Pertinently, Bhupinder Singh Hooda, who serves as the Leader of Opposition in the Haryana Assembly, has been hosting these lunches at his Delhi residence every year on Lohri and Makar Sankranti. This tradition has evolved into a major political event, bringing together leaders from across the spectrum to celebrate cultural festivals while engaging in meaningful political discourse.
The annual feast serves as a testament to Hooda's influence and his ability to bridge political divides, offering a unique space for dialogue in an era of heightened partisanship. As such, it remains a closely watched event for insights into the dynamics of Indian politics, particularly within the Congress party and its interactions with other factions.
