Foundation Day of 6 States and Union Territories Celebrated at Raj Bhavan
Raipur, The Foundation Day of 6 States and Union Territories was celebrated today at Raj Bhavan, with Governor Shri Ramesh Deka as the chief guest. On this occasion, Shri Deka said that India’s soul resides in its diversity, and this is our greatest strength. The ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ campaign, launched under the inspiration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is a powerful symbol of this unity and cultural richness.
At the Foundation Day ceremony organized at Chhattisgarh Mandapam in Raj Bhavan on Sunday, Governor Shri Ramesh Deka, on the occasion of the Foundation Day of Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Kerala, Ladakh, and Andaman Nicobar states and union territories, said that this initiative is not just cultural exchange, but a medium of emotional integration.
Under the Central Government’s “Ek Bharat-Shreshtha Bharat” program, all states celebrate each other’s foundation days to promote the spirit of unity in diversity. In this series, the Foundation Day of these states was celebrated with great enthusiasm today at the Chhattisgarh Mandapam of Raj Bhavan.
On this occasion, Governor Shri Deka said that despite differences in languages, attire, food, art, and traditions, our soul is one. This diversity makes India unique in the world. The states whose Foundation Day is being celebrated today further highlight India’s rich cultural heritage.
Shri Deka said that Chhattisgarh is a state full of natural beauty and rich cultural diversity. Its culture dates back to the Ramayana period. It is the land of action of Lord Shri Ram. More than 35 tribal communities reside in Chhattisgarh, each with its unique traditions, languages, and lifestyles. The tribal traditions of the state have a distinct identity across the country. The people of Chhattisgarh are very simple and live in harmony with nature. Chhattisgarh is called the mineral capital of India and is also the rice bowl. There are many tourism possibilities here. Due to its geographical location, Raipur is moving towards becoming an ‘Education Hub’. By increasing the availability of basic facilities, this region can be further developed academically.
The Governor said that Madhya Pradesh is the heart of India. This state encompasses significant parts of its natural wealth and history. From both religious and tourism perspectives, it attracts domestic and foreign tourists. The mysterious temples of Khajuraho, the stupa of Sanchi, and the caves of Bhimbetka are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Mahakaleshwar Temple of Ujjain is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh are two different states, but the food, language, culture, and customs of the residents of both states are somewhat similar, and they are bound by an unbreakable bond of mutual affection.
Shri Deka said that the formation of Kerala state on November 1, 1956, was an important step in terms of language, culture, and development. Today, Kerala has become a global example for its educational advancement, health services, literature, art, cultural heritage, and beautiful coastlines. Kerala is a source of inspiration for the entire country in terms of literacy rate, health index, and gender equality. Kerala has a literacy rate of 96 percent. Education here is considered a social right. Famous for its natural beauty and evergreen greenery, this state holds a special place in the hearts of tourists. We can be proud of Kerala’s ancient history, long-standing foreign trade relations, and its rich tradition of science and art.
The Governor said that the state of Jammu and Kashmir is known for the highest part of the Himalayan mountain range and its natural beauty and resources. The Vaishno Devi and Amarnath caves located here are very important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. This region is also a symbol of bravery, courage, and the pride of national border security.
Shri Deka said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi took a historic decision by granting Union Territory status to Ladakh. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, every view in Ladakh appears to be a unique creation of nature. The Buddhist culture and Himalayan lifestyle here convey a message of peace and balance to the entire country. The people here have great respect for the environment.
The Governor said that the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are not only rich in natural beauty but also have historical sites like the ‘Cellular Jail’, which reminds us of the suffering and valor during India’s freedom struggle.
The Governor said that the diversity of these states is the biggest guarantee of India’s unity. This is the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’, whose objective is not just cultural introduction, but emotional integration. When states connect with each other, new opportunities arise not only in culture but also in the fields of education, trade, tourism, and technology.
He appealed to everyone to plant a tree for environmental conservation under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ (One Tree in Mother’s Name) campaign. He also urged people to do at least one act of human service.
Representatives from various states and union territories highlighted the characteristics, traditions, and culture of their respective states during the ceremony.
Students from various universities presented colorful cultural programs based on the culture and folk traditions of all states. The folk dances of Chhattisgarh, Bundelkhandi dances of Madhya Pradesh, Rouf of Jammu and Kashmir, along with the folk dances of Kerala, the Zaboro dance of Ladakh, and the folk dances of Andaman Nicobar mesmerized the guests.
The Governor presented a ceremonial shawl and memento to the representatives of various states. They also honored the Governor by presenting mementos from their respective states.
Present at the program were MLAs Shri Purandar Mishra, Shri Sunil Soni, Shri Anuj Sharma, Chairman of Chhattisgarh Sahitya Akademi Shri Shashank Sharma, along with other officials, and a large number of youth, women, and distinguished citizens from all these states.