01-11-2025:Address of the Hon’ble Governor at the Celebration of the Foundation Day of Various States of India Held at Raj Bhawan, Dehradun

Jai Hind!

It gives me immense happiness and pride to be among you all on this auspicious occasion of the Foundation Day celebrations of various States of India. I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the citizens of all the States and Union Territories of our country on their Foundation Day.

This celebration is not merely a formal event, but a living symbol of India’s cultural diversity, national unity, and integrity. The Foundation Days of States remind us that this great nation is a unique example of unity in diversity, where multiple streams of language, attire, tradition, and culture merge to form the grand vision of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” (One India, Great India).

Our country is the result of a long historical, social, and political evolution. Today, each State and Union Territory of India contributes uniquely to the nation’s strength through its distinct identity, culture, and way of life.

The history of State formation also reminds us of the deep aspirations of India’s citizens for their social, economic, and cultural progress. This very spirit continues to inspire us in realizing the dream of a developed India.

It is indeed a matter of pride that this year too, all Raj Bhawans across the nation are celebrating the Foundation Days of States simultaneously. This conveys a powerful message of India’s unity and collective strength. This tradition further strengthens our mutual dialogue, cultural exchange, and national integration.

Every State of India has its own glorious historical journey. On 31st October, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh celebrate their Foundation Day. While the land of Jammu & Kashmir is renowned for its natural beauty, Ladakh — nestled amidst the heights of the Himalayas — not only safeguards India’s borders but also stands as a living symbol of Buddhist culture, compassion, and simplicity. Both regions are invaluable parts of India’s cultural, spiritual, and strategic heritage.

On 1st November, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Punjab, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, along with Union Territories such as Delhi, Chandigarh, Puducherry, Lakshadweep, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands, celebrate their Foundation Day.

Madhya Pradesh, known as the “Heart of India,” is celebrated for its historic cities, magnificent temples, and extraordinary natural wealth.

Karnataka is a confluence of knowledge, science, music, and technology. Bengaluru has placed India on the global map as a technological powerhouse. Chhattisgarh is known for its rich tribal heritage, folk art, mineral wealth, and natural beauty — setting new examples of hard work, culture, and progress. Haryana’s history is intertwined with valor and agriculture; it is the sacred land of Kurukshetra, the battlefield of the Mahabharata, and today it leads in sports, defense services, and agricultural production.

Punjab is the land of courage, hard work, and enthusiasm. Its greenery, folk music, and the teachings of the Gurus inspire the entire nation. Kerala is an ideal for the whole of India because of its achievements in education, health, and social progress. Andhra Pradesh is known for its rich agriculture, entrepreneurship, and ancient Telugu culture — with Tirupati Balaji’s faith and Amaravati’s heritage symbolizing its identity. Tamil Nadu, one of India’s oldest civilizations, continues to keep alive the spiritual and cultural soul of the nation.

Similarly, Delhi, the capital of India, is the political and historical heartbeat of the nation. Chandigarh, with its planned architecture and modern urban design, represents India’s modern urban vision. Puducherry stands as a living example of unity in diversity. Lakshadweep and Andaman & Nicobar Islands, guarding India’s maritime boundaries, are symbols of natural beauty, tourism, marine life, and environmental conservation.

Behind the formation of these States lies the farsightedness of our Constitution, administrative efficiency, and the fulfillment of public aspirations. Each State has enriched India’s collective identity through its distinct contributions.

Countless streams of art, literature, music, dance, architecture, and folk traditions together form the ever-flowing river of Indian culture. Amidst all this diversity, the spirit of national unity is the thread that binds us and gives us the proud right to declare: “We are one — we are India.”

As we celebrate the Foundation Days of our States today, this is also a moment to take pride in the achievements of our respective regions and to reaffirm our commitment to contribute towards building a developed, prosperous, and self-reliant India.

I convey my best wishes for the continuous progress, happiness, prosperity, and bright future of all citizens of India’s States and Union Territories.

Jai Hind!