DIRECTORATE OF INFORMATION & PUBLIC RELATIONS, Government of Mizoram, India

522/2024-2025

Aizawl, the 1st April, 2025: In the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, the Mizoram Raj Bhavan today hosted foundation day celebration of Bihar, Rajasthan and Odisha at the Durbar Hall, Raj Bhavan in Aizawl.

Participating in the event, Mizoram Governor, General (Dr) VK Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd) welcomed the attendees and extended his greetings on the occasion of the foundation day of Bihar, Rajasthan and Odisha States. He stated that the 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' initiative aims to celebrate India's diverse cultures, uphold their significance and seeks to foster greater interaction and mutual understanding between different regions and communities. He further highlighted the importance of unity in a country as vast and diverse as India, where various cultures and ethnic groups coexist. He stated that, "By engaging with diverse cultures, we build a more connected and resilient India. Events like this, celebrating our unique identities, are vital steps toward a stronger and united nation.''

The Governor also mentioned that every Indian state has a rich and unique history. He paid tribute to the great leader Sardar Patel for his efforts in unifying the various princely states of India into the newly independent In India, ensuring harmony and integration. While acknowledging the North East India as a region with a vibrant and diverse cultural heritage, he urged people from other states to learn more about and appreciate the local traditions of the North East. He further encouraged the attendees to use this event as an opportunity to understand and embrace the languages, cultures and lifestyles of different communities.

At today's foundation day celebration, Pi Lalhruaitluangi, Additional PS to the Governor, highlighted the purpose of the programme. A video screening was held featuring video messages from Bihar Governor Shri Arif Mohammed Khan and Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, along with short video clips displaying cultural heritage of the three states. Dr. Akhilesh Kumar Sharma, Assistant Professor, Mizoram University and Prof. Rabindra Kumar Mohanty, Head of the Sociology Department, Mizoram University, spoke about the rich history of Rajasthan and Odisha, respectively. Students from Mizoram University, NIT Mizoram and Govt. J. Thankima College performed on this occasion showcasing the vibrant traditions and rich cultural tapestry of India. Following this, the Governor hosted a delightful interaction with the participants to conclude the event on a joyful note.

On 22nd March in 1912, Bihar was carved out of the Bengal Presidency. Its rich history is marked by the renowned Nalanda University, a beacon of ancient learning and Bodh Gaya, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, shaping our country’s spiritual heritage. Rajasthan State was formed on 30th March 1949, when the princely realms of Jodhpur, Jaipur, Bikaner and Jaisalmer united with the United States of Rajputana, forming what was known as Greater Rajasthan. The state of Rajasthan has very distinctive traits. It has cities painted in vibrant hues like the pink of Jaipur, the white of Udaipur, the blue of Jodhpur, and the purple of Jhalawar. Once a part of Bihar, Odisha emerged as a distinct province on April 1, 1936, becoming the first state in India shaped by linguistic identity. Rooted in the ancient kingdom of Kalinga and a wealth of over 600 temples, earning it the title of India’s temple state.

The Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat programme, aims to actively enhance interaction between people of diverse cultures living in different States and UTs in India, with the objective of promoting greater mutual understanding amongst them. In the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat program, the Foundation Day celebrations of various states and union territories across India are organized at the Raj Bhavan in Mizoram, under the auspices of the Governor, starting from June 2023.

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