Mumbai, May 1: Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh, Gulab Chand Kataria, attended the foundation day celebrations of Maharashtra and Gujarat alongside his wife, Anita Kataria, at Punjab Lok Bhawan in Chandigarh. Due to certain reasons, the foundation day of Himachal Pradesh, which falls on April 15, was celebrated on Friday together with Maharashtra and Gujarat.
This event was organized under the theme of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat,’ aimed at promoting national unity and cultural harmony through the exchange of language, culture, traditions, and heritage.
The program commenced with a video message from Maharashtra Governor, Bhagat Singh Koshyari, followed by a documentary showcasing Maharashtra’s heritage, development, and achievements. Notable speakers included Ajit Balaji Joshi, IAS, who spoke on Maharashtra, Dharmesh Jivani on Gujarat, and Dr. A.K. Atri on Himachal Pradesh.
Cultural performances reflecting the folk traditions of all three states were presented by the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC), Patiala. The audience was captivated by Himachal Pradesh’s Kinnauri Nati and Luddi, Maharashtra’s Lavani and Tamasha, and Gujarat’s Dandiya, Rathwa, and Talwar Raas. The event concluded with a grand joint performance by all artists.
Governor Kataria extended his best wishes to the citizens of the three states, stating that Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat have made significant contributions to nation-building, social justice, cultural prosperity, and economic development. He congratulated workers and laborers on International Labor Day, recognizing them as the foundation of national progress.
Regarding Himachal Pradesh, he noted that the state has emerged as a progressive leader in literacy, education, health, tourism, horticulture, and hydropower. He praised its natural beauty, spiritual heritage, brave soldiers, handicrafts, folk dances, and famous tourist destinations like Shimla, Manali, Kullu, and Dharamshala. He highlighted that this heroic land has given the nation notable figures such as Major Somnath Sharma, Captain Vikram Batra, Rifleman Sanjay Kumar, and Captain Saurabh Kalia.
In his remarks on Maharashtra, he emphasized its rich civilization, contributions of saints, social reformers, and freedom fighters, as well as its role as an economic powerhouse of India. He mentioned Mumbai, UNESCO heritage sites, forts, and traditional dishes like Vada Pav, Misal Pav, and Puran Poli. He also highlighted the sacred bond between Maharashtra and Punjab through the teachings of Saint Namdev, which are included in the Guru Granth Sahib. The connection between Nanded and Takht Sri Hazur Sahib with Guru Gobind Singh Ji symbolizes the enduring spiritual ties between the two states.
Regarding Gujarat, the governor praised its glorious history, entrepreneurship, and contributions to the freedom movement, industry, and innovation.
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