DIMAPUR — Nagaland Governor, La Ganesan, on Friday stated that every state in India is unique with their own rich cultural traditions and heritage adding that the unity in diversity has made India a country great.
The governor stated this during the state foundation day celebration of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Lakshadweep, Chandigarh, Delhi, Andaman & Nicobar and Pondicherry at Raj Bhavan in Kohima.
Ganesan has termed the auspicious gathering as a testament to the diverse cultural beauty of the nation and as part of the Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat programme for national integration. He mentioned that Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme was announced by the prime minister in 2015 on the occasion of the 140th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
“This programme we are celebrating today is part of the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme and aims to expose people to diverse culture and traditions through active interaction between people of different states and union territories in India. It envisages that the knowledge of the language, culture, traditions and practices of different states will lead to mutual understanding and appreciation for the diversity that is India, thereby strengthening the unity and integrity of the country. This program also aims to celebrate the people of the particular state wherever they are residing in a country,” Ganesan said.
The governor was glad to have people from the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana etc residing in Nagaland along with the young students from Kohima Science College, all coming together to celebrate each other’s culture and also to learn more about each other.
“Nagaland is culturally rich not only because of its diverse local population but it is also because it has people from almost the whole length and breadth of our country coming here, working together and contributing to the overall progress and growth of the state. Though you may all be far away from your homelands, we celebrate your state with you together here at Raj Bhavan Kohima today,” he added.
He stated that Tamil Nadu, the state inhabited by the Tamils and celebrated for its historical significance and magnificent temples, is a prime example of India's architectural heritage. He added that Tamil people symbolise ancient wisdom and dynamic traditions.
On Kerala state, the governor said that it is popularly called ‘God's own country’ for its distinctive traditions, arts and natural beauty. He stated that the Malayalis are renowned for their warm hospitality, cultural heritage, dedication to education, and contributions across various fields. He added that they have also contributed immensely to the educational landscape of Nagaland.
Andhra Pradesh, renowned for its diverse cultures and vibrant arts, has always been a cultural epicenter, he said and added that the Telugus are known for their warmth and hospitality. Hr described them as hardworking which is evident from the fact that Andhra Pradesh is an agricultural hub and is called “the rice bowl of India.”
Ganesan stated that Punjab, the land of five rivers, personifies the energetic spirit of India. He said that Punjabis are a hardworking, jovial, brave and a vivacious lot and added that their unrivaled hospitality is legendary and their cuisine has reached every corner of the world.
Likewise, he stated that the culture of other states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Karnataka, Lakshadweep, Chandigarh, Delhi, Andaman & Nicobar and Pondicherry are also equally vibrant, diverse and colourful.
With every state in India being unique with their own rich cultural traditions and heritage, the governor called upon the gathering to always remember that ‘what unites us is more robust than what differentiates us.’