ITANAGAR : The State Foundation Days of Telangana, Sikkim and Goa were celebrated with enthusiasm and patriotic fervour at Lok Bhavan here on Tuesday as part of the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ initiative.
Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd), accompanied by First Lady Anagha Parnaik, participated in the celebrations and extended greetings to the people of the three states, acknowledging their contributions to the nation’s progress, cultural diversity and democratic values.
Reflecting on their unique historical journeys, the Governor highlighted Telangana’s achievements in innovation and economic growth, Sikkim’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development, and Goa’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
Drawing parallels with Arunachal Pradesh, Parnaik noted that all four states share a strong respect for indigenous traditions, vibrant tribal cultures, rich handloom and handicraft heritage, and significant tourism potential. Despite geographical distances, he said, they are united by common values of community living, cultural pride and harmonious coexistence with nature.
Emphasising the significance of the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ programme, the Governor described it as a visionary initiative aimed at strengthening emotional integration among citizens and celebrating India’s diversity. He said the programme has fostered people-to-people connections, encouraged appreciation of different cultures and promoted the spirit of unity in diversity, particularly among the youth.
The Governor also commended the participants for their enthusiastic cultural performances and informative presentations.
A colourful cultural programme showcasing the rich heritage of different States marked the occasion. Students of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya (VKV), Itanagar, presented a traditional Arunachali dance, while performances of the Sikkimese group song ‘Chitti Chitti’ and folk dance ‘Gairi Khet Ko Sirai Hanyo’ highlighted Sikkim’s cultural traditions.
Bhagyasree of VKV, Itanagar, presented a Bharatanatyam recital, celebrating India’s classical dance heritage. Informative presentations on Sikkim, Goa and Telangana were delivered by Gichik Yachum of VKV, Itanagar, and Chukhu Nachum and Nabam Kampung of Boum Kakir Mission School, Doimukh, under the Let’s Speak Arunachal initiative.
The programme was further enriched by the participation of children, staff and parents of Sacred Heart Convent & Day Centre, Itanagar, who attended as special guests of the Governor. Interacting with them, the Governor underscored the importance of building an inclusive and supportive society where every individual is empowered to realise their full potential.
As part of the celebrations, the Governor and the First Lady hosted a high tea for people from Telangana, Sikkim and Goa, as well as participating students and officials.
Audiovisual messages from Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma and Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur were also screened during the programme.
