Chandigarh, April 1: Under the leadership of Shri Banwari Lal Purohit, Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Union Territory Chandigarh, strengthening the unity and integrity of the nation, the rich tradition of unity in diversity was celebrated with great pomp on the occasion of Odisha Statehood Day at Punjab Raj Bhawan, Chandigarh.

The Governor extended his greetings to all the guests present at the function and said that celebrating the State Foundation Day of other states promotes harmony and goodwill among the people. He said that it strengthens the spirit of unity in diversity.

He said that Odisha has a rich culture. It is a home to rich cultural heritage with historical monuments, archaeological sites, traditional arts, sculpture, dance and music. The entire country should become familiar with it, connect with it and especially the young generation should be aware about it.

On the occasion, captivating presentation of folk music and odishi dances were presented.

The dignitaries present on the occasion included Senior Deputy Mayor, Mr. Kuljeet Singh Sandhu, Mr. Satya Pal Jain, Additional Solicitor General of India, Mr. K. Siva Prasad, Additional Chief Secretary to Governor, Punjab, Mr. Rajeev Verma, Adviser to Administrator, UT along with his better half, Mr. Surendra Singh Yadav, DGP, UT, IAS officers from Punjab and UT, Chandigarh, Padamshree Mr. D Bahera Chairman, Utkal Sanskriti Sangh along with a host of Members of the Sangh and Ms Niru Malik, Principal Dev Samaj College.