05-02-2026:Governor calls for strengthening cultural consciousness and ‘Nation First’ spirit at the inauguration of Uttarayani Kauthig Festival–2026
Lok Bhavan Uttarakhand-Information Wing
Press Note
Governor calls for strengthening cultural consciousness and ‘Nation First’ spirit at the inauguration of Uttarayani Kauthig Festival–2026
Lok Bhavan Dehradun 05 February, 2026
The Governor of Uttarakhand, Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd.), participated as the Chief Guest at the inauguration of the Uttarayani Kauthig Festival–2026, organised by Seva Sankalp Foundation, on Thursday. On this occasion, colourful cultural performances were presented by folk artists, and the Governor honoured 10 social workers for their outstanding contributions in various social sectors across the state.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that Uttarayani is not merely a folk festival, but a symbol of Uttarakhand’s cultural soul, collective consciousness, and a balanced way of life in harmony with nature. He stated that with the sun’s transition to Uttarayan, the festival conveys a message of positive change, energy, and light, inspiring society to move from despair to resolve and from stagnation to progress.
The Governor described Uttarayani as a living example of scientific awareness based on seasonal cycles and harmony with nature. Highlighting the Kauthig (traditional fairs) of Uttarakhand, he said these are the heartbeat of the region’s folk life and have historically served as vibrant centres of social unity, cultural continuity, and collective memory. Folk songs, dances, traditional attire, and handicrafts reflect the living, awakened, and proud cultural heritage of Uttarakhand.
The Governor emphasised that Uttarakhand is not only a land of natural beauty, but also a land imbued with the spirit of ‘Nation First’. He said that the brave sons and daughters of Devbhoomi have always played a leading role in serving the nation. Referring to the vision of Developed India–2047, he noted that Uttarakhand has the potential to guide the nation in areas such as yoga, AYUSH, education, tourism, biodiversity, water resource conservation, defence services, and human resources.
Describing the honesty, simplicity, and diligence of the people of Uttarakhand as the state’s greatest strength, the Governor recalled the contributions of great personalities such as Swami Ram Tirtha, Veer Chandra Singh Garhwali, Teelu Rauteli, Gaura Devi, Bachendri Pal, Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, and General Bipin Rawat. He remarked that dedication to the nation can transform even an ordinary individual into a maker of history.
The Governor stated that the Uttarayani Kauthig Festival provides a new identity to folk art, folk music, folk dance, handicrafts, and cottage industries, while also strengthening the rural economy. He said that the festival practically embodies the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’.
Calling upon the youth to stay away from drugs and other addictions, the Governor said that a strong Uttarakhand and a strong India can only be built through education, sports, skills, and service. Appreciating the social initiatives of Seva Sankalp Foundation, he said that culture remains alive only when it is connected with service, compassion, and social responsibility.
The Governor extended his best wishes to all, stating that the Uttarayani Festival strengthens Uttarakhand’s cultural consciousness, social unity, and national pride.
On the occasion, Trustee Founder of Seva Sankalp Foundation Smt. Geeta Dhami, First Lady Smt. Gurmeet Kaur, Cabinet Minister Shri Subodh Uniyal, Mayor of Dehradun Shri Saurabh Thapliyal, IMA Commandant Lieutenant General Nagendra Singh, along with other dignitaries and senior officials, were present.
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