Itanagar, Jun 2: The State Foundation Days of Telangana, Sikkim and Goa were celebrated with enthusiasm and patriotic fervour at Lok Bhavan here on Tuesday, with Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen (Retd) KT Parnaik underscoring the importance of cultural exchange and national integration under the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ initiative.
Participating in the programme along with his wife Anagha Parnaik, the Governor said State Foundation Day celebrations provide valuable opportunities for promoting mutual respect, cultural understanding and emotional bonding among citizens from different parts of the country.
Extending his greetings to the people of Telangana, Sikkim and Goa, Parnaik highlighted the distinct strengths of each state. He praised Telangana for its rapid economic and technological advancement, Sikkim for its commitment to environmental sustainability, and Goa for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
Drawing parallels with Arunachal Pradesh, the Governor noted that all four states share a deep respect for their indigenous traditions, vibrant tribal cultures, exquisite handloom & handicraft heritage, and immense tourism potential. Despite geographical distances, these states are united by common values of community living, cultural pride, and harmonious coexistence with nature, he added.
Referring to the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme, Parnaik described it as a visionary initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aimed at deepening emotional integration among citizens and celebrating the diversity that strengthens the nation. He said the initiative has helped strengthen people-to-people connections, encouraged appreciation of diverse cultures and inspired young people to embrace the ideals of national unity and harmony.
The celebration featured a series of cultural performances showcasing the traditions of different regions of the country. Students of VKV, Itanagar presented traditional dances of Arunachal Pradesh, while performances depicting the folk traditions of Sikkim captivated the audience. A Bharatanatyam recital by student Bhagyasree added a classical touch to the programme.
Students from VKV Itanagar and Boum Kakir Mission School, Midpu (Doimukh), also delivered presentations highlighting the history, culture and achievements of Telangana, Sikkim and Goa.
The event was attended by children, parents and staff of Sacred Heart Convent & Day Care Centre, Itanagar, who were invited as special guests of the Governor. Interacting with them, the Governor stressed the importance of building an inclusive society where every individual is given equal opportunities to grow and contribute.
The occasion also featured audio-visual messages from the Governors of Telangana, Goa and Sikkim—Shiv Pratap Shukla, Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju and Om Prakash Mathur, respectively.
The programme concluded with a ‘high tea’ hosted by the Governor and his better half for the guests, participants and officials.