normalnormalnormal Governor of Punjab and Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, along with his wife Smt. Anita Kataria, attended the Foundation Day celebrations of Maharashtra, Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh (15 April) at Punjab Lok Bhavan, Chandigarh. As the Foundation Day of Himachal Pradesh falls on 15 April and could not be organised earlier due to some reasons, it was also celebrated today along with Maharashtra and Gujarat. The programme was organised under the vision of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (EBSB), promoting national unity and cultural harmony through the exchange of language, culture, traditions and heritage, while celebrating unity in diversity on one platform.The programme commenced with the screening of a video message from the Hon’ble Governor of Maharashtra, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, followed by a documentary highlighting the heritage, development and achievements of Maharashtra. The gathering was also addressed by distinguished speakers, including Sh. Ajit Balaji Joshi, IAS, on Maharashtra, Sh. Dharmesh Jivani on Gujarat, and Dr. A.K. Attri on Himachal Pradesh.A colourful cultural presentation showcasing the folk heritage of the three states was organised by the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC), Patiala. The cultural segment featured vibrant performances, including Kinnauri Nati and Luddi from Himachal Pradesh, Songi Mukhwate and Lavni from Maharashtra, and Dandiya, Rathwa and Talwar Raas from Gujarat. The celebrations concluded with a grand finale by all artists.Extending greetings to the people of the three states, Governor Shri Kataria said that Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat have made significant contributions to nation-building, social justice, cultural enrichment and economic growth. He also conveyed greetings on International Labour Day, describing workers and labourers as the foundation of national progress.Speaking about Himachal Pradesh, the Governor highlighted its transformation into a progressive state known for literacy, education, healthcare, tourism, horticulture and hydropower. He praised its natural beauty, spiritual heritage, brave soldiers, handicrafts, folk dances and renowned destinations such as Shimla, Manali, Kullu and Dharamshala. The Governor added Himachal Pradesh, known as Veer Bhoomi, gave the nation heroes like Major Somnath Sharma, Captain Vikram Batra, Rifleman Sanjay Kumar and Captain Saurabh Kalia.Referring to Maharashtra, he recalled its rich civilisational legacy, contributions of saints, social reformers and freedom fighters, and its rise as India’s financial powerhouse. He highlighted Mumbai, UNESCO heritage sites, forts, vibrant traditions like Lavni and Tamasha, and cuisine including Vada Pav, Misal Pav and Puran Poli. He also highlighted the sacred bond between Maharashtra and Punjab through Sant Namdev Ji, whose hymns are included in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. He further noted that Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s association with Nanded and Takht Sri Hazur Sahib reflects the enduring spiritual ties between the two states.On Gujarat, the Governor lauded its glorious history, entrepreneurial spirit and contribution to India’s freedom movement, industry and innovation. He highlighted Gujarat as the land of Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Patel and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, besides referring to the White Revolution, Gir National Park, Statue of Unity, Sabarmati Ashram, ports, industrial growth and the traditions of Garba and Dandiya.The Governor said that though Indians may speak different languages and wear different attire, they are united by one national identity. He added that India is progressing towards becoming a developed nation and called upon citizens to work together during Amrit Kaal to realise the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, with every state acting as a growth engine of national development.Also present on the occasion were Cabinet Minister, Punjab, Shri Gurmeet Singh Khuddian; Additional Solicitor General of India, Shri Satya Pal Jain; Additional Chief Secretary of Punjab, Shri Vivek Pratap Singh; Home Secretary, Chandigarh Administration, Shri Mandip Singh Brar; and Deputy Commissioner, Chandigarh, Shri Nishant Kumar Yadav.normalnormalThe post Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat Spirit Celebrated at Punjab Lok Bhavan appeared first on Chandigarh City News.