05-02-2026:Address by the Hon’ble Governor on the Inaugural Occasion of Uttarayani Mahotsav
Jai Hind!
On this sacred land of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand—where culture resides in every particle of soil, where tradition flows naturally through life, and where the spirit of the nation remains ever awakened in the hearts of the people—I extend my heartfelt greetings and respectful salutations to all present on the auspicious inaugural occasion of the grand Uttarayani Mahotsav, organised by Seva Sankalp (Dharini) Foundation.
Today, this platform is not merely witnessing a cultural celebration; it is giving voice to the very soul of Uttarakhand. Here, folk traditions flow with vitality, heritage speaks with confidence, and culture stands firmly with pride. Being present among you on this historic and culturally significant occasion fills me with immense pride and deep inner satisfaction.
Uttarayani is not an ordinary festival. It is not merely a celebration of the Sun’s northward movement, but a symbol of light, energy, and positive transformation in life. Just as the Sun moves from darkness towards illumination, this festival inspires society to move from despair to determination, and from inertia to progress.
Uttarayani reflects our season-based worldview, scientific consciousness, and harmonious coexistence with nature. This is why, for centuries, this folk festival has bound the people of Uttarakhand together and continues to awaken our collective consciousness even today.
Friends,
The Kauthig (traditional fairs) of Uttarakhand are the heartbeat of our folk life. These are not merely fairs, but living centres of social unity, cultural continuity, and collective memory. Amid the challenging conditions of mountain life, these gatherings have strengthened brotherhood, preserved traditions, and carried forward cultural values from one generation to the next.
The folk songs that resonate, the traditional dances that energise, the indigenous attire, and the handcrafted artefacts all proclaim that Uttarakhand’s culture is alive, aware, and progressing with dignity. The Uttarayani Kauthig is a powerful expression of this tradition. It is heartening to see that Uttarakhandis residing across the country continue to keep their traditions alive and reinforce their cultural unity through festivals like Uttarayani.
I commend Seva Sankalp (Dharini) Foundation for this inspiring initiative, which has transformed a cultural event into a movement of collective consciousness. Such efforts reconnect society with its roots and guide culture confidently towards the future.
Friends,
Uttarakhand is not only a land of natural beauty; it is a land inspired by the spirit of “Nation First.” From this soil have emerged countless brave sons and daughters who have devoted their lives to the defence of our nation. Here, nationalism is not confined to words—it is reflected in action. Whenever the nation has called, the people of Devbhoomi have stood at the forefront.
As India moves forward with the resolve of Viksit Bharat 2047, Uttarakhand’s role in achieving this historic vision is of great importance. Whether it is yoga, AYUSH, education, tourism, water conservation, biodiversity, defence services, or human resource development, Uttarakhand possesses the capacity to lead by example. I firmly believe that if every citizen aligns personal duty with nation-building, Uttarakhand can emerge as a guiding land for a developed India.
Friends,
The greatest identity of Uttarakhand lies in the honesty, simplicity, and diligence of its people. Even in the most challenging circumstances, they have never retreated from hard work. Be it the armed forces, administration, education, or labour—wherever they have gone, they have earned trust through integrity. This moral strength is Uttarakhand’s greatest asset.
This sacred land has given birth to great personalities and heroes. Figures such as Swami Ram Tirtha and Veer Chandra Singh Garhwali guided society and the nation, while Teelu Rauteli, Gaura Devi, and Bachendri Pal established enduring symbols of courage and women’s empowerment. Military heroes like Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat and General Bipin Rawat brought honour to Devbhoomi’s proud martial legacy. Their lives remind us that dedication to the nation and higher purpose can transform ordinary individuals into architects of history.
Friends,
The presence of mothers, sisters, and young participants in traditional attire today affirms that Uttarakhand’s soul remains vibrant. No matter where we live across the world, our language, culture, and values travel with us. That is our identity—and our strength.
The folk music, dances, and performances presented during this four-day festival are not merely artistic displays; they are living narratives of history. Jhora, Chhapeli, Chanchari, Pandav Nritya, Jagar, Chholiya, and Deuda narrate stories of courage, devotion, struggle, and collective pride passed down by our ancestors.
This festival also provides renewed recognition to our handicrafts and cottage industries. Woollen products, traditional jewellery, wooden and copper crafts displayed here are not mere objects—they symbolise the dedication, skill, and self-respect of our artisans.
Uttarayani Mahotsav gives practical expression to the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. When local traditions are honoured, the nation grows stronger. Such events reinforce rural livelihoods and strengthen the foundation of a self-reliant Uttarakhand.
The traditional cuisine of Uttarakhand is equally integral to our cultural consciousness. Mandua roti, Jhangora kheer, Bhatt ki Churkani, Gahat dal, Aloo ke Gutke, Kafuli, Kandali saag, and Bhang chutney are not just flavours—they represent nutrition, balance, and sustainable living.
This festival is especially inspiring for our youth. While embracing technology and modernity is essential, staying connected to one’s roots is even more vital. Festivals like Uttarayani teach us that tradition and modernity can move forward together.
I am pleased to note that Seva Sankalp (Dharini) Foundation is also actively working in the fields of education, healthcare, de-addiction, child protection, and employment. Culture remains alive only when it is rooted in service, compassion, and social responsibility.
My young friends,
You are Uttarakhand’s greatest strength. Substance abuse weakens this strength. I urge you to stay away from addiction and embrace sports, education, skills, and service. A healthy youth forms the backbone of a strong Uttarakhand and a strong India.
Uttarakhand’s culture is founded on simplicity, diligence, self-respect, and the spirit of Atithi Devo Bhava. In an era of globalisation where many societies are drifting away from their roots, festivals like Uttarayani remind us that a society remains strong only when its culture lives on and is passed from generation to generation.
Let us all take a collective pledge on this sacred occasion—that Nation First will be our guiding principle; honesty and hard work will define our identity; corruption and substance abuse will find no place in our society; and we will contribute wholeheartedly towards making Uttarakhand the finest state of India.
Let us also resolve that we will never forget our language, abandon our traditions, or neglect our cultural heritage, and that we will pass them on with pride to future generations.
In conclusion, I once again extend my warm wishes for the success of the Uttarayani Mahotsav. May this festival elevate Uttarakhand’s cultural consciousness, social unity, and national pride to new heights.
Jai Hind!
Jai Uttarakhand!