Lok Bhavan, Assam celebrates Odisha Day
Guwahati, Rongili Barta: Lok Bhavan, Assam under the guidance of Governor Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya celebrated the State foundation Day of Odisha in a befitting manner at a function held at Sri Sri Madhavadeva International Auditorium.
Terming the Day as a symbol of linguistic identity and unity, he emphasized the deep-rooted cultural, spiritual and historical ties between Assam and Odisha. He said that such occasion further strengthens the spirit of “Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat” and promote national integration.
On this occasion, the Governor recalled the invaluable contribution of eminent personalities of Odisha such as Madhusudhan Das, Jayee Rajguru, Gopibandhu Das, Harekrishna Mehtab and Maharaja Krishna Chandra Gajapati etc. whose visionary leadership and selfless service played a defining role in shaping Odisha and paid tributes to their enduring legacy.
While highlighting the deep rooted historical, cultural and spiritual ties between the two States, the Governor referred to the intrinsic similarity between Jagannath culture and Vaishnavite tradition noting that both embody core ideals of devotion, inclusivity, compassion and universal brotherhood.
The Governor stated that a striking similarity can be observed in the rich tribal heritage, agrarian lifestyle and artistic expression of the people, reflecting a shared cultural ethos and deep-rooted traditions that bind the region together. He observed that Assam’s Bihu and Odisha’s Nuakhai reflects a similar reverence for nature and age-old tradition, symbolizing the agrarian spirit and cultural ethos of the people. He further noted that while Assam’s Sattriya dance is imbued with energy and vibrancy similarly Odisha’s Odissi dance captivates audiences with its gracefulness and elegance.
Highlighting the deep civilization and cultural linkage between Assam and Odisha, the Governor referred to the revered saint and reformer Srimanta Sankerdeva historic association with Odisha. He said that Sankerdeva during his extensive pilgrimage across India visited the sacred city of Puri and spent time at the renowned Jagannath Temple where the inclusive and devotional tradition of Jagannath had a profound influence on his philosophy and teachings.
Assam Governor stated that a significant number of people of Odia origin reside in the State which has become their Karma Bhumi and said that they have made noteworthy contributions to the socio cultural and economic development of the State.
On this occasion a vibrant cultural programme featuring Odissi dance, Sambalpuri dance and Ganesh Vandana was beautifully showcased. A video documentary on Odisha was screened. Earlier the Commissioner and Secretary to the Governor, Sri S.S. Meenakshi Sundaram delivered the welcome address.
The occasion was graced by Principal Secretary, Transport Department, Border Protection & Development etc. Gyanendra Dev Tripathi, Inspector General of Police Akhilesh Kr. Singh, Vice Chancellor of KKHSOU Prof. Rajendra Prasad Das among a host of dignitaries.