JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Lok Bhavan on Monday celebrated the 26th Foundation Day of Uttarakhand, with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha extending warm greetings and best wishes to the people of the state.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted Uttarakhand’s rich cultural, spiritual and civilisational heritage, describing the state as an embodiment of India’s spiritual consciousness through the grandeur of the Himalayas, the sacred Ganga and its centuries-old traditions of faith and devotion.
Paying tribute to former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Sinha recalled his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment that led to the creation of Uttarakhand. He said Vajpayee understood the long-standing aspirations of the people of the hill region and transformed them into reality.
Describing Uttarakhand as ‘Devbhoomi’, the Lieutenant Governor referred to the revered shrines of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri, saying they represent India’s cultural continuity and civilisational values.
He emphasised that the Ganga is not merely a river but a symbol of India’s cultural heritage, spiritual traditions and life-giving values. He urged the younger generation to protect its purity and uninterrupted flow, describing it as both an environmental and moral responsibility.
Highlighting the state’s inclusive spiritual heritage, Sinha said Hemkund Sahib, Gurudwara Meetha Reetha Sahib and Mindrolling Monastery represent harmony, coexistence and mutual respect among diverse faiths.
Referring to the ancient Vedic philosophy of ‘Ekam sad vipra bahudha vadanti’, meaning truth is one and the wise describe it in different ways, he said India’s strength lies in the coexistence, mutual respect and harmony of its diverse faiths.
The Lieutenant Governor also lauded Uttarakhand’s contributions to literature, painting, music and national service. Describing the state as both ‘Devbhoomi’ and ‘Veerbhoomi’, he expressed gratitude to the armed forces, veterans and families of soldiers from the region for their distinguished service and sacrifices.
He also highlighted the historical significance of the Garhwal school of painting, which developed in the seventeenth century, and praised Uttarakhand’s folk music for its popularity in India and abroad. He called upon the younger generation to preserve and promote these cultural traditions through creativity and innovation.
Commending the developmental progress achieved under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sinha highlighted improvements in connectivity, education, healthcare and digital infrastructure, alongside the growth of tourism, homestays, organic farming, handicrafts and start-ups.
Concluding his address, the Lieutenant Governor said Uttarakhand’s cultural consciousness binds the nation together, just as the Ganga and Yamuna connect regions and nourish India’s public life.
