Patna, Jan 14 (IANS): Makar Sankranti was celebrated here with political colour in Bihar, with clear signs that the Janata 'parivar' was all set for unity.

Ignoring the biting cold, thousands of workers of the ruling JD-U and its ally Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) marked the festival at the residence of RJD chief Lalu Prasad and at a Patna club.

Lalu Prasad played host to everyone including Janata Dal-United president Sharad Yadav, Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, INLD leader Abhay Chautala and Samajwadi Party leader Om Prakash Singh.

Former chief minister and JD-U leader Nitish Kumar failed to attend the event due to high fever. Later, Lalu Prasad, Sharad Yadav, Chautala and Manjhi visited him to inquire about his health.

JD-U national spokesperson K.C. Tayagi said the merger of the six Janata parivar would take place soon.

"A formal announcement about the merger will be made by (Samajwadi Party chief) Mulayam Singh Yadav," Lalu Prasad added.

The Janata 'parivar' parties are all set to unite after suffering a rout in the Lok Sabha election last year.