Governor Nand Kishore Yadav with artistes representing Andhra Pradesh, Keralam, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu at Lok Bhavan, Kohima, on November 1.
Kohima, November 1 (MExN): Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav has called for greater cultural exchange and interaction among people from different parts of the country, saying that understanding and respecting cultural differences is essential to strengthening national unity.
Addressing the Common Celebration of State Foundation Days of Andhra Pradesh, Keralam, Punjab and Tamil Nadu at Lok Bhavan, Kohima, on November 1, the Governor said the initiative, organised under Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, provided an opportunity to appreciate India's cultural diversity and shared heritage. "The essence of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat lies in knowing one another better, appreciating our differences, celebrating our shared heritage and strengthening the bonds that unite us as Indians," he said.
Extending greetings to the people of the four States, particularly those living, studying and serving in Nagaland, Yadav highlighted their distinct cultural identities and contributions to the country. He spoke about Andhra Pradesh's contributions to classical arts, literature and Kuchipudi dance; Keralam's traditions of Kathakali and Mohiniyattam; Punjab's legacy of courage, enterprise, Bhangra and Giddha; and Tamil Nadu's ancient civilisation, classical Tamil language, Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music.
He also acknowledged the four States' contributions to education, agriculture, industry, technology and national development. Referring to Nagaland's cultural heritage, the Governor said the State's diverse Naga communities, with their distinct languages, attire, songs, dances, festivals and traditions, demonstrated that unity did not require uniformity.
"Unity becomes stronger when we respect and take pride in our diversity," he said. Underscoring the importance of cultural exchange, particularly among young people, Yadav encouraged them to travel, interact, exchange ideas and learn about the languages, food, music and traditions of other parts of the country.
"Such interactions help remove stereotypes and misconceptions while fostering friendship, mutual respect and understanding," he said. He observed that the North East had much to share with the rest of India while also having much to discover and appreciate from other regions.
Expressing happiness that Lok Bhavan was serving as a platform for dialogue, learning and cultural understanding, the Governor appreciated the cultural groups and participants representing the four States. Their performances, he said, were "building bridges of friendship and understanding."
Congratulating those involved in organising the celebration, he said every interaction that promoted understanding among people contributed to a stronger and more united India. Reiterating that India's diversity was one of its greatest strengths, Yadav called upon citizens to celebrate their differences while cherishing the common identity that binds them together.
The celebration featured cultural presentations showcasing the traditions and heritage of Andhra Pradesh, Keralam, Punjab and Tamil Nadu. As part of the programme, Secretary of Nagaland Telugu Samaj, Sankar Surada, spoke on Andhra Pradesh; Vice President of Malayali Samajam, Kohima, Shaji K, on Keralam; President of Gurudwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Harjinder Pal Singh Ahluwalia, on Punjab; and OSD to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Nellayappan B, on Tamil Nadu.
