20-06-2026:Address of the Hon’ble Governor on the Occasion of West Bengal State Foundation Day under the “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” Campaign
(Date: June 20, 2026)
Jai Hind!
Today’s auspicious occasion is a celebration of India’s eternal cultural consciousness, which has woven countless diversities stretching from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and from Attock to Cuttack into the sacred thread of unity.
This occasion reminds us that despite our differences, our cultural soul, our national consciousness, and our shared heritage are one and the same. This is India’s greatest strength and its immortal identity.
On this proud occasion of West Bengal State Foundation Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings and congratulations to all distinguished guests present here and to all the brothers and sisters of West Bengal.
India’s greatest distinction lies in the fact that diversity here is not a source of division but the foundation of national unity. Our languages, attire, and ways of life may differ, but our spirit, our values, and our highest duty remain one—“Nation First.”
The “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” initiative, launched under the inspiration of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, is a powerful symbol of this national spirit. Today, Lok Bhavans are no longer merely administrative institutions; they have evolved into vibrant centers of cultural dialogue, emotional integration, and national harmony. The collective celebration of State Foundation Days further strengthens the belief that every state of India is a shared heritage of the entire nation.
This campaign is an inspiring effort to realize the dream of an integrated India envisioned by the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, at the cultural and emotional level. When we understand and respect one another’s history, culture, and traditions, the spirit of national unity grows even stronger.
West Bengal is a sacred land that led modern India’s social, cultural, intellectual, and spiritual renaissance. It is not merely a state but a magnificent chapter in the story of Indian civilization and consciousness.
Raja Rammohan Roy ignited the torch of social reform, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar paved the way for education and women’s empowerment, while Maharshi Debendranath Tagore and Swami Ramakrishna Paramahansa elevated Indian spirituality to new heights.
Swami Vivekananda, who carried this spiritual tradition to the world stage, spent time in contemplation at the Mayawati Ashram in Uttarakhand’s Himalayas, demonstrating that Bengal’s intellectual consciousness and Uttarakhand’s spiritual energy complement one another.
Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore introduced the world to India’s cultural soul through his literature and philosophy. His creative pursuits in the picturesque town of Ramgarh in Uttarakhand remain a priceless symbol of the deep cultural ties between the two states.
In the field of science, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose and Satyendra Nath Bose brought global recognition to Indian talent, while Satyajit Ray gave Indian cinema an international identity.
The history of India’s freedom struggle is incomplete without Bengal’s contribution. “Vande Mataram” infused the entire nation with the spirit of freedom, while “Jana Gana Mana” gave voice to India’s national soul. Through the Indian National Army, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose demonstrated that unwavering determination and courage in service of the nation can make the impossible possible. His life continues to inspire every Indian with the highest ideals of patriotism and sacrifice.
The relationship between the two states continues to deepen culturally, spiritually, and humanly. Every year, millions of devotees from West Bengal visit Uttarakhand to seek the blessings of Baba Kedar, Badrivishal, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. Uttarakhand’s tradition of “Atithi Devo Bhava” (Guest is God) and Bengal’s warm and affectionate culture together present a living example of national unity.
The world-famous Durga Puja and Uttarakhand’s Nanda Raj Jat Yatra and Maha Kumbh are not merely religious events but grand celebrations of social harmony and national integration. They remind us that the spirit of India resonates equally across the entire nation.
In the fields of economy, culture, and self-reliance, both states complement one another. West Bengal’s rich handloom tradition, handicrafts, and exquisite textile arts, together with Uttarakhand’s organic products, medicinal plants, and natural wealth, provide new momentum to the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).
I especially call upon the youth of both states to work together in the fields of education, science, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. When Bengal’s intellectual brilliance and Uttarakhand’s spirit of dedication come together, the pace of building a developed India will become even faster.
Today, the world looks toward India with hope and confidence. This is not the time to remain confined within regional boundaries but to move forward as a united national force. We must always remember that state boundaries exist for administrative convenience, not to divide hearts.
Our primary identity is not defined by any state, language, or region, but by our status as proud citizens of Mother India. This sentiment is the true essence of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.”
Let us all work together to build an India where diversity is our strength, unity is our identity, and the nation remains supreme in our way of life.
With this faith and commitment, I once again extend my heartfelt greetings to all the citizens of West Bengal on their State Foundation Day and conclude my address.
Vande Mataram! Jai Maa Bharati! Jai Hind!