The foundation day of Odisha State was celebrated at Raj Bhavan Kohima on April 1. According to PRO Raj Bhavan, governor La Ganesan who graced the event, said that the celebration was not only the state foundation day of Odisha but also the spirit of “Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat”.
The day also being the birth anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the governor extended warm wishes to everyone and said that Guru Tegh Bahadur remains an enduring and much respected symbol of courage, spiritual integrity and sacrifice.
He also lauded Bahadur’s supreme sacrifice of protecting religious freedom. Elaborating on Odisha, the Governor said that, with its glorious past, vibrant culture, and rich traditions, it holds a special place in the mosaic of Indian diversity.
“As we celebrate this day, let us remember the undying spirit of the people of Odisha, their resilience in the face of adversities, and their unparalleled contribution to art, culture, and the freedom struggle of our great nation,” Ganesan said.
On the connection between Odisha and Nagaland, the Governor remarked that the two states were geographically distant yet close in spirit. He said the initiatives like “Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat”, was to foster a closer relationship between the people of different states by highlighting the shared values and diverse cultures.
Ganesan also lauded the Odisha community in Nagaland for their steadfastness in preserving their cultural heritage, despite the distance from their origins. He underscored their pivotal contribution to the diverse cultural fabric of Nagaland, urging all to embrace the opportunity for mutual learning and celebration, thereby reinforcing unity amidst diversity.
Earlier, the opening remarks was given by, Mhomo Tungoe, joint secretary to Governor, speech on Odisha State by Dr. Rajesh Tati, secretary, Hindu Seva Samiti, Dimapur and advisor, Oriya Samaj, Kohima.
Short speeches were delivered by, Kabiray Altia, president, Oriya Samaj, Kohima, Prabhakar, advisor, Oriya Samaj, Kohima and R. C. Panda, Oriya Samaj, Kohima, and vote of thanks by, Jochule, Section Officer, Governor’s Secretariat.
Cultural items included, Hidimbi Abhinaya and Bakulavaranam Pallabi by Biswarupa Dixit and Aniket Pallav Nayak, Artists from Odisha State and a cultural dance by Binita Gurung.