Governor says Alai Balai promotes social harmony beyond political differences
Hyderabad: Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla said on Thursday that Alai Balai promotes harmony by bringing people together across political and ideological differences. He described the annual gathering as a symbol of social unity and Telangana’s rich cultural heritage.
Addressing the Datthanna Alai Balai programme at the Nampally Exhibition Grounds, he stressed the importance of mutual respect despite ideological differences. Former Governor Bandaru Dattatreya and his daughter Vijayalakshmi organised the event. Shukla appreciated Vijayalakshmi for continuing the tradition that Dattatreya initiated in 2005.
The Governor said differences in political beliefs should not weaken friendship, cooperation or mutual respect. Moreover, he emphasised that such gatherings helped preserve cultural traditions while strengthening relationships among people from different backgrounds.
Alai Balai promotes harmony across political divides
Shukla said the programme reflected Telangana’s tradition of bringing people together regardless of their political affiliations. He called upon young people to respect cultural traditions and actively contribute to nation-building. Furthermore, he stressed that social harmony and national integration were essential for the country’s progress.
The Governor also used the occasion to highlight the growing threat of drug abuse, particularly among young people. He warned that synthetic drugs posed an increasing danger and called for coordinated efforts to tackle the problem.
Shukla said the police alone could not eliminate drug abuse. Therefore, government agencies, educational institutions, social organisations and citizens must work together to address the problem.
He urged all sections of society to contribute towards achieving the goal of a drug-free India by 2029. The Governor recalled administering an anti-drug pledge to approximately 15,000 students at LB Stadium in Hyderabad.
Additionally, he announced that a similar drug awareness programme would take place at Osmania University on October 28. He stressed the importance of protecting young people from drug abuse through collective participation and public awareness.
Dignitaries attend Alai Balai celebrations
Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, former Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu and former Governor C. Vidyasagar Rao attended the programme. Union Minister Kishan Reddy, several public representatives and political leaders also participated in the gathering.
During the event, Dattatreya felicitated Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and his wife, Janaki Shukla. Meanwhile, dignitaries honoured individuals who had distinguished themselves in various fields. The gathering also reflected the message that Alai Balai promotes harmony through cultural interaction and mutual respect beyond political affiliations.