Nagaland governor La Ganesan on Saturday urged the Assamese and Naga people to cement the age-old friendship with newfound vigor and promise to safeguard their shared values, ensuring that the spirits of unity, tolerance, and acceptance continued to thrive.
According to a Raj Bhavan statement, Ganesan said this while speaking at the “Assam State Foundation Day” programme organized at Raj Bhavan Kohima on December 2, 2023.
Governor mentioned about Assam’s illustrious history and rich culture that has enriched the tapestry of shared narrative, contributing significantly to the collective ethos of the region.
He pointed out that its pristine tea gardens, enthralling Bihu dance, and the timeless Assamese literature ignite admiration and kindle a strong bond of camaraderie between the Assamese and the Nagas. Ganesan urged the people of the two states to rekindle their pledge towards peace, harmony, and prosperity.
Governor said that the programme was organised to commemorate the vibrant legacy of sister state- Assam, which was affectionately referred to as the ‘Land of Red River and Blue Hills.’
Governor stated that the programme was part of the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat program, which aims to expose people to diverse culture and traditions through active interaction between people of different states and UTs in India.
Governor said that both Assam and Nagaland shared the same dream—the dream of a peaceful region, where everyone respects and cherishes their differences, a region where every dream finds its soil to grow.
He also handed over the certificates of appreciation to the artists who performed dances and songs. Speaking on behalf of Assamese people residing in Nagaland, Sahitya Sabha Kohima advisor, Dr. H.N Dutta said that the Assam foundation Day was celebrated to commemorate the advent of the first Ahom Kingdom in Assam. He narrated the history of chief Sukapha and his contribution to the peace between Assam and its neighbouring states.
He said chief Sukapha also maintained good relationship between Assam and Nagaland. Dr.Dutta said that both the neighbouring states were trying to strengthen the age old strong relationship. He thanked the Governor for organizing the me at Raj Bhavan.
He also handed over two books titled “History Art and Archaeology of Doyang -Dhansari Valley, Assam” and “Eastern Himalayan Domestic Architecture” which was published and edited by him and Imotemsu Ao.
Various artists from the Assamese community performed Bihu Dances, Assamese modern dances and songs. The secretary to governor Rajesh Soundararajan gave the welcome address while the vote of thanks was proposed by joint secretary to governor Mhomo Tungoe.