SHIMLA: As a part of the vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’, a special ‘Milan Programme’ was organized at Lok Bhavan today to celebrate the Foundation Day of West Bengal. The residents of West Bengal living in Himachal Pradesh participated enthusiastically in the programme.
Governor Kavinder Gupta welcomed the guests and honoured them with traditional Himachali caps and mufflers as a gesture of goodwill and cultural fraternity. While interacting with the participants, the Governor extended his warm greetings on the Foundation Day of West Bengal and appreciated the State’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, literary excellence and significant contributions to the nation’s social, cultural and intellectual development.
The Governor said that the ‘Milan Programmes’ organized at Lok Bhavan on the Foundation Days of various States embody the true spirit of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ by strengthening the bonds of national unity through cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
“These programmes bring people together and foster a sense of belonging, ensuring that individuals living away from their home States continue to feel connected to their roots while becoming an integral part of the larger national family,” he said.
Shri Gupta observed that the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ initiative promotes mutual respect for India’s linguistic, cultural and regional diversity while reinforcing the spirit of national integration. He said that while unity in diversity remains India’s greatest strength, it was equally important to preserve and promote the unique cultures, languages and traditions of individual States.
“Our rich cultural heritage can be preserved only when these values and traditions are passed onto future generations,” the Governor remarked. The participants shared insights into West Bengal’s vibrant cultural legacy, traditions, festivals, literature, art and cuisine, and engaged in a meaningful interaction with the Governor. Secretary to the Governor Sandeep Bhardwaj was also present on the occasion.
