SRINAGAR : Jammu and Kashmir Lok Bhavan on Monday celebrated the 26th Foundation Day of Uttarakhand, with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha extending greetings to the people of the state and highlighting its cultural, spiritual and civilisational heritage, as well as its contribution to national service.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Sinha paid tribute to former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee, recalling his role in the creation of Uttarakhand and his commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of people living in the hill region.
Describing Uttarakhand as Devbhoomi and Veerbhoomi, the Lieutenant Governor said the state holds a special place in India’s spiritual and cultural traditions and has made significant contributions to the country’s defence forces.
Referring to the Himalayan shrines of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri, he said they represent India’s religious traditions, cultural continuity and civilisational identity.
He described the Ganga as more than a river, saying it symbolises India’s cultural heritage, spiritual traditions and life-sustaining values. He also called upon the younger generation to recognise the importance of preserving the river’s purity and uninterrupted flow, describing it as an environmental as well as moral responsibility.
Highlighting the state’s religious diversity, Sinha referred to Hemkund Sahib, Gurudwara Meetha Reetha Sahib and Mindrolling Monastery as examples of harmony, coexistence and mutual respect among different faiths.
Quoting the ancient Vedic expression Ekam sad vipra bahudha vadanti (truth is one, though the wise describe it in different ways), he said Uttarakhand’s diversity reflected India’s strength in the coexistence and mutual respect of different religious traditions.
The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted the state’s contributions to literature, painting, music and folk traditions. He particularly referred to the Garhwal school of painting, which developed in the 17th century, and the popularity of Uttarakhand’s folk music in India and abroad.
Calling for the preservation of these traditions, he said they should become part of the creativity and innovation of the younger generation.
Sinha expressed gratitude to serving personnel of the armed forces, veterans and families of soldiers from Uttarakhand, acknowledging their contribution to the nation’s service.
He also highlighted the developmental progress achieved in Uttarakhand under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, referring to improvements in connectivity, education, healthcare and digital infrastructure.
The Lieutenant Governor said initiatives involving homestays, organic farming, handicrafts, tourism and start-ups had contributed to expanding local economic opportunities.
He said the cultural consciousness of Uttarakhand connected different regions of the country, just as the Ganga and Yamuna nourished communities across India.
