India’s Strength Lies in Its Diversity: Odisha Governor

Bhubaneswar, Nov 1: Emphasizing the essence of unity in diversity, Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati on Friday said that India’s true strength lies in embracing its vast diversity and weaving differences into a shared national identity.

The Governor was addressing a gathering at the celebration of Foundation Days of 15 States and Union Territories, held at the New Abhishek Hall, Raj Bhavan. The event was graced by First Lady Jayashree Kambhampati and attended by senior state officials and dignitaries.

Welcoming the guests, Dr. Kambhampati described the celebration as a “confluence of cultures where India’s diverse traditions, languages, and flavours unite in harmony.” He said the occasion was not merely a commemoration of State Foundation Days but a tribute to “India’s living spirit — a land where diversity blossoms into harmony, and every culture enriches the national soul.”

The Governor underlined that the programme reflected the vision of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’, championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reaffirming the country’s emotional and cultural unity.

Highlighting the unique contributions of every State and Union Territory, Dr. Kambhampati said each represents “a radiant chapter in the grand epic of India” — from the snow-capped mountains of Kashmir to the temples of Tamil Nadu, from the innovation hubs of Bengaluru to the serene backwaters of Kerala.

Speaking about Odisha, he remarked that the State, known for Lord Jagannath’s universal message of inclusiveness, has always opened its heart to people from all corners of India. “You are not guests; you are family — part of this sacred land’s continuing story,” he told the gathering.

The event also saw participation from natives of various States serving in Odisha, including Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, DGP Y. B. Khurania, Principal Secretaries Usha Padhee, Chitra Arumugam, and Dr. N. Thirumala Naik, Senior IFS Officer Dr. K. Murugesan, and Manoj V. Nair.

The celebration concluded with a vibrant cultural programme showcasing traditional art forms from different regions, beautifully capturing the spirit of unity in diversity that defines the Indian ethos.