West Bengal Foundation Day celebrated at Lok Bhavan

PNS

Ranchi

Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar on Saturday lauded West Bengal’s rich cultural, intellectual and historical legacy while addressing members of the Bengali community residing in Jharkhand at the West Bengal Foundation Day celebration held at Lok Bhavan.

Speaking on the occasion, the Governor said India is a nation of immense diversity, bringing together numerous languages, cultures, traditions and ways of life. Despite these differences, he noted, the country’s greatest strength lies in its spirit of “unity in diversity”.

Gangwar said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” initiative has emerged as an important platform for strengthening cultural exchange, mutual understanding and emotional integration among different states.

Highlighting the close ties between Jharkhand and West Bengal, the Governor said the relationship between the two neighbouring states extends beyond geographical proximity and is rooted in deep cultural, social and emotional bonds. He praised the Bengali community living in Jharkhand for its significant contributions to education, culture, industry, trade and social development.

Describing Bengal as a land of knowledge, creativity and cultural consciousness, the Governor said the state has played a historic role in nation-building, from the social reform movements of the 19th century to India’s freedom struggle.

He also underscored Bengal’s enduring contribution to literature, music, art and cinema. Referring to legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray, Gangwar said his work helped Indian cinema gain global recognition. He added that Bengal’s rich cultural traditions, creativity and intellectual heritage continue to inspire generations across the country.

The Governor praised Bengal’s vibrant festival culture, noting that celebrations such as Durga Puja and Kali Puja are not merely religious observances but also symbols of social harmony, collective participation and cultural grandeur. He said these festivals showcase Bengal’s cultural identity to the nation and the world. He also highlighted the state’s renowned culinary traditions and the sweetness of the Bengali language as reflections of its rich heritage.

Gangwar further observed that alongside its cultural achievements, West Bengal has made remarkable progress in industry, agriculture, education, science and information technology. He said the state has consistently played a vital role in India’s economic, intellectual and cultural advancement and expressed hope for its continued peace, prosperity and development.

Earlier, Governor’s Additional Chief Secretary Dr. Nitin Kulkarni welcomed the gathering and extended greetings on West Bengal Foundation Day. He noted that the state was formed in 1947 and has since emerged as one of the country’s culturally vibrant regions. He also highlighted the close affinity between Jharkhand and West Bengal and recalled Bengal’s contribution to the creation of the national anthem and national song.

Kulkarni said festivals such as Durga Puja and Kali Puja are celebrated with great enthusiasm in both states and emphasized that West Bengal has been a leading state not only in culture but also in industrial and economic development. He urged citizens to contribute continuously towards the progress of their state and the nation, irrespective of where they reside.