04-10-2025:Governor inaugurated the 30th Virasat Art and Heritage Festival at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Stadium, ONGC, Dehradun, on Saturday.

Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd.) inaugurated the 30th Virasat Art and Heritage Festival at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Stadium, ONGC, Dehradun, on Saturday. The 15-day festival will feature performances from Sri Lanka, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Belarus, celebrating a vibrant confluence of cultures from India and abroad.

Organized by REACH, the festival began with a soul-stirring performance by world-renowned Sarod maestro, Padma Vibhushan Ustad Amjad Ali Khan. His melodious rendition, paired with the rhythmic tabla accompaniment, captivated the audience and filled the atmosphere with harmony and joy.

In his inaugural address, the Governor said that the festival is not merely a cultural event but a grand celebration of India’s, and particularly Uttarakhand’s, rich traditions and glorious heritage. He remarked, “Culture is the soul of the nation,” emphasizing that Virasat has, for three decades, been a living symbol of India’s diversity, art, and traditions. He added that such festivals honor artisans and artists while connecting the younger generation to their roots.

Highlighting Uttarakhand’s culture as a reflection of harmony with nature, the Governor said that the fairs, festivals, folk songs, and dances of Devbhoomi are the living essence of its heritage. He noted that Virasat has evolved into a powerful platform promoting global brotherhood and the message of “Unity in Diversity.”

The Governor urged the youth to remain connected to their heritage and traditions. He said that when the new generation embraces its culture, it gains the confidence to stand tall on the global stage. He called upon everyone to pledge to preserve, protect, and pass on the nation’s heritage to future generations.

The Governor congratulated the organizers for the successful conduct of the festival. The event was attended by former Chief Minister Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank,’ REACH General Secretary R.K. Singh, Vice President Sunaina Prakash, Hemant Arora, and several other dignitaries and guests.
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