Lok Bhavan, Assam celebrates Gujarat and Maharastra Day
Guwahati,Rongili Barta: In an ode to celebrate the essence of “Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat” Lok Bhavan, Assam under the guidance of Governor Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya celebrated the State foundation Day of Gujarat and Maharashtra at Lok Bhavan here today.
On this occasion the Governor conveyed his heartfelt felicitations to the citizens of both the States, including those residing in Assam, and underscored the importance of observing the occasion in fostering a deeper sense of national unity and integration. He noted that the celebration of State Foundation Days under the aegis of the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative has contributed significantly towards strengthening emotional bonds, promoting cultural exchange, and enhancing mutual understanding among the diverse regions of the country.
Recalling the historical background, the Governor stated that Gujarat and Maharashtra came into existence as separate States on May 1, 1960, following the reorganisation of states on a linguistic basis. He described this as a landmark development in India’s democratic evolution, reflecting the aspirations of the people and reinforcing the federal structure of the nation.
Highlighting the rich legacy of both the States, the Governor noted that Gujarat is renowned for its vibrant cultural heritage and achievements in trade, commerce, and industry, and as the birthplace of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, whose contributions to India’s freedom and unity remain unparalleled. Referring to Maharashtra, he stated that the State holds a distinguished place in the country’s cultural and economic landscape, with Mumbai as its financial capital, and a rich legacy shaped by stalwarts such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Veer Savarkar, and Dadabhai Naoroji.
The Governor further emphasised the deep-rooted and cordial ties between Assam and these two States, which exemplify the spirit of unity in diversity. He noted that every year, a large number of devotees from Gujarat and Maharashtra visit Assam, particularly the revered Kamakhya Temple and the World Heritage site of Kaziranga National Park while many people from Assam are residing and contributing meaningfully to the socio-economic development of these States.
Stressing that every State has its own distinct identity, traditions, and cultural heritage, the Governor stated that India’s diversity is its greatest strength. He observed that the progress and empowerment of the States are fundamental to the progress of the nation, and that a strong, self-reliant India can be realised only through collective efforts and cooperative federalism.
Earlier the Joint Secretary to the Governor, Arindom Baruah delivered the welcome address. The Commissioner and Secretary to the Governor, SS Meenakshi Sundaram, OSD to the Governor Prof. Bechan Lal, President of Shree Gujarat Welfare Society Manisha Shah, Prof Vinayak Kulkarni of IIT, Guwahati among a host of dignitaries was present. On this occasion video documentaries on Gujarat and Maharashtra were screened.