Imphal: The foundation days of eight States — Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Nagaland, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Tripura and Uttar Pradesh were commemorated on Wednesday in Imphal as part of the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme, with Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla attending as the chief guest.
According to an official communiqué from the Raj Bhavan, the programme was held at the Darbar Hall of Lok Bhavan and highlighted the spirit of national unity and cultural harmony by bringing together the shared histories and diverse traditions of the participating States.
On the occasion, the Governor released a special Manipuri rendition of Vande Mataram, symbolising Manipur’s cultural identity and its place in the national fabric.
Addressing the gathering, Bhalla said the initiative sought to strengthen emotional and cultural bonds among states by promoting mutual understanding and appreciation of diverse traditions, languages and heritage. He noted that each of the eight states being commemorated possessed a distinct historical and cultural legacy and had made significant contributions to nation-building.
Referring to Manipur, the Governor said the state’s rich cultural and sporting traditions continued to enrich India’s national life. He also underscored the role of art and culture as vital instruments for fostering harmony and mutual respect.
The programme featured cultural performances by artistes of the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy (JNMDA), showcasing Indian classical and traditional dance forms in keeping with the theme of unity in diversity.
The event was attended by the First Lady, the Chief Secretary, the Security Advisor, the Director General of Police, and other senior officials and invited guests.