15-03-2026 : Address by the Honorable Governor at the Phooldei Sankranti Festival Organized by the Parvatiya Sanskriti Sanrakshan Samiti
Jai Hind!
My dear little children, the young guardians of Uttarakhand’s culture, the dedicated members of the Parvatiya Sanskriti Sanrakshan Samiti, and all the respected parents present here—heartfelt greetings to all of you on the auspicious occasion of the Phooldei festival.
Today, the courtyard of Lok Bhavan is not only fragrant with flowers, but it is also glowing with the smiles of lovely children like you. Seeing your enthusiasm, happiness, and energy fills my heart with joy and pride. Truly, you are the living flowers of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand who will spread the fragrance of our society and culture.
The flowers you have beautifully arranged in your small baskets today are not just flowers—they carry the fragrance of the great culture of our Devbhoomi. Seeing all of you here in your traditional attire makes me extremely happy. You are not just children; you are the young brand ambassadors of our great mountain culture.
My dear children,
“Phool Dei, Chamma Dei, Daini Dwar, Bhar Bhakaar.”
These words hold a very deep philosophy.
Their meaning is beautiful. When you go from door to door placing flowers, you are not only offering flowers but also wishing happiness, prosperity, and forgiveness for that family. This tradition of spreading joy at others’ doorsteps helps shape us into better human beings.
Phooldei teaches us to respect nature. Just as flowers spread fragrance to everyone without discrimination, you too should make society beautiful through your good behavior. I have a small request for all of you—this Phooldei, plant at least one tree and watch it grow like your friend.
Children, protecting nature is the responsibility of all of us. Love trees, plants, and flowers, and keep your surroundings clean and beautiful. When we respect nature, nature fills our lives with happiness.
The folk songs you sang today along with traditional musical instruments have a sweetness of their own. The folk culture of Uttarakhand is very rich and glorious. Our folk songs, folk dances, and traditional instruments are our identity. Learning them and carrying them forward is our collective responsibility.
I have been a soldier, and I wish that every child of my state becomes disciplined and fearless like a soldier. Children from the mountains naturally possess courage and patience. Study well, learn modern technologies like computers and artificial intelligence, but never forget your Pahadi language and folk songs. Technology is your strength, and culture is your roots.
You are the builders of the future of our state and our country. The more you progress in education and strengthen your values, the stronger our society and nation will become. Education gives us knowledge, and values give us the right direction.
My dear children,
When India celebrates 100 years of independence in 2047, some of you will become doctors, engineers, scientists, and perhaps someone among you may even become a Governor like me. Start dreaming big from today and work hard to achieve those dreams.
I am happy to know that the Parvatiya Sanskriti Sanrakshan Samiti has been organizing this beautiful folk festival with great enthusiasm for many years. This is a highly commendable effort because such events play an important role in passing our culture to the younger generation. I congratulate all the members and supporters of the committee for this wonderful initiative.
Young guardians of culture,
The flowers in your baskets and the brightness on your faces give me confidence that the future of our Devbhoomi is safe. Take back lots of happiness and my blessings from here today.
Move forward in life, study well, adopt good values, and make your parents, teachers, and the nation proud. That is my heartfelt wish for all of you.
Always remember: “Stay healthy, stay cheerful, and stay connected to your roots.”
Once again, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all of you on the festival of Phooldei. I pray to God that the flowers of happiness always bloom in your lives and that your future remains bright.
Jai Hind! Jai Uttarakhand!