Chandigarh, 4 December 2025: The Punjab Lok Bhavan, Chandigarh, hosted the Foundation Day celebrations of Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Assam, and Nagaland this evening under the “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” initiative.
During his address, Hon’ble Governor Shri Gulab Chand Kataria welcomed the nationwide transition from “Raj Bhavan” to “Lok Bhavan,” stating that such renaming reflects India’s democratic ethos and the spirit of people’s participation. He recalled Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s monumental role in unifying 562 princely states and countering colonial designs to divide India. He also acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts in strengthening Patel’s vision through the launch of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat on 31 October 2015. The Governor underlined that the diverse social, cultural, geographical, and historical strengths of Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Assam—including the sacred Kamakhya Temple—and Nagaland contribute significantly to India’s identity and the nation’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.
We must inspire the entire nation by bringing to light the supreme sacrifice of the Chhote Sahibzadas of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, whose courage and devotion remain unmatched in history. Their martyrdom stands as an eternal symbol of faith, resilience, and unwavering commitment to righteousness, guiding humanity toward moral strength. By sharing their story widely, we deepen respect for their sacrifice and strengthen the values of justice, freedom, and steadfast courage in every heart.
Video messages from the Governors of all four states—Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Assam, and Nagaland—were also shared with the audience. Representatives of the respective states gave brief insights into their social development, economic progress, geographical uniqueness, cultural richness, heritage diversity, and agricultural strengths, offering a deeper understanding of India’s vast regional diversity.
As part of the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat celebrations marking the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the event presented a vibrant lineup of cultural performances. Uttarakhand showcased the iconic Nanda Devi Palki Dance and the folk classic “Bedu Pako Baramasa,” reflecting the state’s scenic beauty and mountain life. Jharkhand followed with energetic folk dances rooted in tribal and agrarian traditions. Assam’s segment featured the lively Bihu dance and the traditional Bangurumba dance performance. From Nagaland, the audience witnessed bamboo dance, colourful tribal presentations, and warrior dances that highlighted the heritage of various Naga tribes. The programme also included a special fusion piece blending Assamese and Naga dance styles, symbolising cultural harmony.
The celebrations beautifully reinforced the spirit of unity in diversity and highlighted the shared cultural legacy that binds the nation.
Prominent present on the occasion included Shri Satya Pal Jain, Additional Solicitor General of India; Shri H. Rajesh Prasad, Chief Secretary, UT Chandigarh; Sh. Vivek Partap Singh Principal Secretary to Governor, Shri Mandeep Singh Brar, Home Secretary, UT Chandigarh; Shri Diprava Lakra, Finance Secretary, UT Chandigarh; Dr. Sagar Preet Hooda, DGP Chandigarh; officials of the Chandigarh Administration; prominent citizens; and representatives of the respective state communities residing in Chandigarh.