Nagaland governor La Ganesan on Saturday called upon all to preserve and promote cultural heritage, while at the same time respect and learn from diverse communities, by maintaining a balance between progress and tradition.
He said this while addressing the first North East Gorkha Cultural Festival 2023 (NEDCF) held at Singrijan, Chümoukedima, organized by Hamro Chinhari North East India, Nagaland.
Ganesan expressed deep honor and joy to be part of the cultural celebration, recognizing the significant contributions of the Gorkha community to the cultural tapestry of North East India.
Urging the gathering to honor their ancestors and instill pride in future generation, Ganesan recalled that for over 200 years many Gorkha’s considered Nagaland as their home, and had also contributed to the economic development of the state.
He also acknowledged the vital role played by the Gorkhas in the Indian army, agriculture, local businesses, and overall economic development of the nation.
“This festival is more than a celebration, it is a testament of unity and strength”, he stated, emphasizing the need to preserve the unique culture, language, and traditions of the Gorkha people.
He urged community to embrace diversity and coexist harmoniously with various communities in the region. He expressed the hope that the festival would inspire unity and cultural pride among the community.
Meanwhile, in response to representation for Gorkhas’ inclusion in the OBC status, Ganesan highlighted the BJP’s 2019 election manifesto commitment to declare and include the Gorkha community in the OBC. He assured attendees of his intention to remind the Prime Minister and the state government through proper channels, further underscoring the commitment to addressing community concerns.
Special guests of the event, DIG 6 Sector (Assam Rifles) Brig. SK Shukla and Lok Sabha MP from Darjeeling Raju Bista also spoke on the occasion. Advisor IT department (Sikkim) Tenzing Norbu Lamtha also graced the occasion as a special guest.
Short speeches were also delivered by Head GB Singrijan & Khopanala, Tezu Pradhan, and president Nagaland Gorkha Association, Nobin Pradhan while welcome address was delivered by president Hamro Chinhari Nagaland Prant (HCNP) Shiva Kumar.
The programme was chaired by Anupama Kattel and Homnath Dhungyal.
The second session witnessed cultural dances and folk songs by various groups while display of traditional attires, musical instruments etc. were highlights of the second session.