This is How Odisha Raj Bhavan Celebrated Janjatiya Gaurav Divas
Held at the New Abhishek Hall, on November 15 the event brought together cultural traditions, heartfelt tributes, and a shared commitment to national harmony.
Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati urged citizens to face challenges with courage while safeguarding India’s unity, as Raj Bhavan hosted a vibrant celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas (Tribal Pride Day) along with the foundation days of Uttarakhand and Jharkhand. Held at the New Abhishek Hall, on November 15 the event brought together cultural traditions, heartfelt tributes, and a shared commitment to national harmony.
In his address, the Governor reflected on the significance of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, a day dedicated to the inspiring legacy of Birsa Munda, one of India’s most revered tribal freedom fighters. He highlighted how Munda awakened a spirit of resistance against British rule, fighting for the rights, dignity, and self-respect of tribal communities. His brief yet revolutionary life, the Governor noted, continues to inspire every Indian to uphold justice, equality, and pride in indigenous heritage. Dr. Kambhampati expressed appreciation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative to commemorate the contributions of tribal heroes nationwide, saying it encourages a deeper understanding of the role tribal communities play in shaping India’s identity.
Extending warm wishes to the residents of Uttarakhand and Jharkhand, the Governor painted vivid portraits of the two states. Uttarakhand, often called Devbhoomi, was celebrated for its snow-clad Himalayan peaks, sacred shrines like Kedarnath and Badrinath, and its cultural ethos rooted in simplicity, devotion, and harmony with nature. Similarly, Jharkhand, the “Land of Forests”, was praised for its mineral-rich terrain, lush greenery, and colourful tribal traditions. As the birthplace of the legendary Birsa Munda, the state holds a special place in India’s freedom movement. Its cultural expressions, from Chhau to Paika dance, showcase a deep connection to nature and a vibrant sense of identity.
Dr. Kambhampati also expressed heartfelt gratitude to people from Uttarakhand and Jharkhand who have settled in Odisha, acknowledging their contribution to local culture and community life. Their ability to blend seamlessly while sharing their traditions, he said, stands as a living example of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.” He emphasised that celebrating the foundation days of different states at Raj Bhavan nurtures cultural exchange, strengthens inter-state bonds, and reflects India’s strength, unity in diversity.
Positioning Odisha as a beacon of inclusivity and harmony, the Governor invoked the timeless message of peace following the Kalinga War, the spiritual aura of Lord Jagannath, and the architectural marvel of Konark Sun Temple. Odisha’s vibrant folk and tribal cultures, he added, demonstrate how the state embraces diversity with pride and warmth, and how its people embody the belief that the world is one family. He urged everyone to uphold and strengthen the spirit of unity that defines India.
The occasion was graced by the First Lady of Odisha, Dr. Jayshree Kambhampati. A video message from Uttarakhand Governor Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Gurmit Singh added a special touch, while a short film on the life of Birsa Munda reminded the audience of his enduring impact. Vishal Kumar Dev, Principal Secretary of the Energy Department and a native of Uttarakhand, shared insights into the cultural and historical ties between his home state and Odisha. The event commenced with a welcome address by Smt. Roopa Roshan Sahoo, Commissioner-cum-Secretary to the Governor.
As a gesture of collective grief, the gathering observed a two-minute silence to honour the victims of the terrorist attack in Delhi on November 10. Prayers were offered for the departed souls and their families. The cultural segment of the program added colour and vibrancy, featuring traditional dances from Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, and Odisha, presented by the Odia Language, Literature & Culture Department and the ST & SC Development Department.
The event stood as a celebration not only of heritage and identity but also of the unity that binds India together, an enduring message echoed throughout the ceremony at Raj Bhavan.
