Governor Jishnu Dev Varma leads Statehood Day celebrations of Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura

Hyderabad: Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma on Wednesday presided over the Statehood Day celebrations of Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura. The celebrations were held at Lok Bhavan under the banner of the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative. The event marked the historical significance and cultural richness of these three Northeastern states. It also recognized their contemporary aspirations.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Dev Varma emphasised the importance of such programmes in building cultural unity. He said these programmes promote mutual understanding and recognise India’s diversity in traditions, tourism, language, and lifestyle. Furthermore, he called for greater national and global attention towards the Northeastern region. He also highlighted its untapped potential in heritage-based tourism and cultural promotion.

Governor highlights cultural bonds, urges focus on Northeast tourism

Paying tribute to the historic Statehood Day milestone achieved under the North-Eastern Areas (Reorganisation) Act, 1971, the Governor praised the resilient spirit of the people of Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura. He noted Hyderabad’s inclusive nature. Additionally, he said the city continues to welcome and celebrate diverse communities.

He also referenced the recently concluded Telangana North East Connect Techno-Cultural Festival. This festival featured cultural exchanges, exhibitions, and interactive sessions. These elements were designed to strengthen inter-state ties and youth engagement.

“These celebrations reaffirm our shared commitment to unity in diversity, sustainable progress, and cultural preservation, ensuring equitable growth for every region of our nation,” Governor Dev Varma said.

Cultural performances and dignitary participation mark the occasion

The event featured video messages from the Governors of the three states—Indrasena Reddy Nallu (Tripura), Ajay Kumar Bhalla (Manipur), and C. H. Vijayashankar (Meghalaya). Representatives from the participating states also delivered brief remarks. These remarks highlighted each region’s distinctive strengths.

Cultural performances included a tribute to Rabindranath Tagore through the song “Tomaro Ashimee” and the dance drama Chitrangada (Tripura). There was also a Manipuri classical dance sequence and Khasi folk music from Meghalaya. These performances showcased the region’s vibrant cultural landscape.

Prominent attendees included Special Chief Secretary to the Governor M. Dana Kishore, IFS officer and SATS MD Sonibala Devi, former IPS officer Goutham Sawang, Dr. Chranjith Ghosh (Tripura), and other officials, cultural delegates, and Lok Bhavan staff.