Utkal Divas, the foundation day of Odisha, was celebrated in Kohima on April 1 with Governor Nand Kishore Yadav.
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DIMAPUR — Utkal Divas, marking the foundation day of Odisha, was celebrated at Dr. Imkongliba Ao Hall, Lok Bhavan, Kohima, on Wednesday, with Governor of Nagaland Nand Kishore Yadav in attendance.
Addressing the gathering, the governor expressed his pleasure in joining the Odia community and highlighted the historical significance of the day, which commemorates the formation of Odisha on April 1, 1936, as India’s first state created on a linguistic basis.
According to an update, he noted that the occasion symbolises not only statehood but also the cultural pride, linguistic identity, and resilience of the people of Odisha.
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Yadav lauded Odisha’s rich heritage, referring to its glorious past from the ancient Kalinga civilisation to the spiritual prominence of Lord Jagannath. He also highlighted the transformative impact of Emperor Ashoka’s Kalinga War, which shaped the course of history with a message of peace.
Highlighting Odisha’s cultural vibrancy, he appreciated its contributions to art, literature, and classical dance forms such as Odissi, describing the state as an integral part of India’s diverse cultural mosaic.
The governor expressed happiness at witnessing the celebration in Kohima, stating that such events exemplify India’s unity in diversity. He commended the Odia community in Nagaland for preserving their traditions while contributing meaningfully to the social fabric of the state.
He further noted that Nagaland and Odisha, despite geographical distance, share common values of cultural pride, strong community bonds, and respect for heritage, which strengthen national unity.
The governor extended warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Odisha residing in Nagaland and across the country.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Thavaseelan K, Commissioner and Secretary to the Governor, stated that Odisha possesses a glorious history and a vibrant culture, making it a truly unique and cherished land.
He remarked that the occasion celebrates Odisha’s distinct identity while also reflecting the spirit of unity in diversity, adding that such celebrations will strengthen the bonds of friendship between the people of Odisha and Nagaland.
Rama Chandra Panda, President of Odia Samaj Nagaland, spoke on the significance of Odisha statehood, while Dinabandhu Panda, Advisor to Odia Samaj Nagaland, also addressed the gathering.
The event featured a series of cultural performances, including Odissi dance presentations such as Trahi Durga and Debimaya by a cultural troupe from Odisha, a Sambalpuri (Dalkhai) song by Logna Pradhan and friends, a Jagannath Bhajan by Kinjal Sahu, and a Sambalpuri dance performance.