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DIMAPUR — Nagaland Governor La. Ganesan encouraged the Hindu community in Dimapur to continue embracing the spirit of Durga Puja beyond the ten-day festival period.
“Let discipline, respect, unity, and devotion guide us in our everyday life. Let us work tirelessly towards creating a society that upholds these virtues, just as we do during Durga Puja,” the governor said at the combined Vijaya Sammelan (victory conference) and award ceremony organised by the Hindu Seva Samiti (HSS) in the Durga Mandir auditorium, Dimapur, on Sunday.
Ganesan also responded to the concerns raised by HSS president Gopal Sharma, specifically regarding the upkeep of the puja ghat in Dimapur, where various religious ceremonies and rituals including immersion of idols takes place.
While Sharma informed the Governor that the HSS expends approximately INR 1 to 1.5 lakh annually on ghat repairs, the Governor pledged to raise the issue with the state chief minister and the relevant minister.
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=1]Sharma also conveyed to the governor that the committee had made several appeals to the government in pursuit of a lasting solution. “When Union Ministers come here, we requested them too but nothing has happened. Through you we’d like to request that if something permanent can be done to the issue as it is used for many pujas throughout the year,” he appealed.
Meanwhile, the governor conveyed to the audience that festive occasions serve as a testament to the rich and enduring cultural heritage, as well as the spiritual beliefs that are integral to the society. He noted that the celebrations this year have been truly exceptional, showcasing creativity, innovation, and unwavering devotion.
He emphasised on one aspect, which is unity, and underscored that the forces of evil cannot be overcome alone—it is only when we come together in unity that we can effectively combat the evil forces. He highlighted that unity is a source of strength, which is why the celebration of Durga Puja holds significance.
“The vibrancy and diversity of the Durga Puja pandals, the spectacular idols, the fervour of the rituals, and the lively strains of music that filled the air transported us into a realm of sacred joy and unity. Today at this Vijaya Sammelan, we gather not just to award the best efforts but to honour the spirit of commitment and dedication towards preserving our culture and values”, he maintained.
The Governor applauded every committee’s devotion and hard work, turning each puja pandal into a unique masterpiece. He praised their ability to convey religious fervor and dedication. “Whether it is for the best idol, the most disciplined pandal, the best performing idol immersion, or the best music played, every nomination, every achievement is a victory worthy of praise and admiration. And I congratulate everyone for your contribution and participation irrespective of whether you win or not,” he added.
This tradition is not only about artistic and musical excellence but also about promoting unity, respect, and tolerance in a diverse society, as well as encouraging and nurturing the spirit of discipline and devotion stirred by this beautiful festival, he remarked.
He urged the community to keep the rich cultural traditions alive and pass them on to future generations.
The Hindu Seva Samiti declared the Nepali Basti Puja Committee as the winner of the Durga Puja competition, with judging criteria based on the pandal, discipline, musical performance, and overall ambiance. The K Kire Puja Committee secured the second position, and the PWD Puja Committee received the third position.
Hon'ble Governor @LaGanesan attented the Durga Puja Vijaya Sammelan cum award ceremony 2023,held at Durga Madir Permises,Dimapur organised by Hindu Seva Samiti Dimapur.He conveyed his appreciation and wishes to all pic.twitter.com/I4HqxdhWII
— Raj Bhavan Nagaland (@RajBhavanKohima) November 5, 2023