A colorful cultural extravaganza unfolded at Punjab Raj Bhavan in Chandigarh, where Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, accompanied by his wife Anita, honored the foundation days of Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat. This joint celebration promoted the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ vision of cultural harmony.
Due to scheduling issues, Himachal’s April 15 event was rescheduled to Friday, aligning perfectly with the other states’ commemorations. The focus was on exchanging traditions to strengthen national bonds.
Maharashtra Governor Jishnu Dev Varma’s video address opened the program, succeeded by a film on the state’s milestones. Experts Ajit Balaji Joshi (IAS), Dharmesh Jivani, and Dr. AK Atri elaborated on each state’s unique journey.
The North Zone Cultural Centre from Patiala delivered mesmerizing shows: Himachal’s energetic Kinnauri Nati and Luddi, Maharashtra’s dramatic Songi masks and Lavani, and Gujarat’s rhythmic Dandiya, Rathwa, and Talwar Ras. A unified finale left the audience spellbound.
In his address, Governor Kataria congratulated residents of the three states for their immense contributions to India’s social justice, cultural prosperity, and economic surge. Marking Labour Day, he saluted workers as progress pillars.
Himachal Pradesh earned special mention for topping charts in education, health, tourism, horticulture, and hydropower. Its scenic wonders, spiritual sites, valiant warriors, crafts, dances, and destinations like Shimla and Manali were highlighted, alongside war heroes Major Somnath Sharma and others.
Maharashtra’s narrative included its vibrant history, spiritual leaders, reformers, independence warriors, Mumbai’s global stature, heritage forts, folk arts like Lavani and Tamasha, and iconic snacks. The Governor linked it spiritually to Punjab via Namdev and Hazur Sahib.
Gujarat’s entrepreneurial legacy, freedom movement involvement, industrial prowess, and innovative drive were celebrated.
This gathering not only revived cultural pride but also reinforced India’s unity in diversity, setting a tone for collaborative national advancement.
