Says Lord Shri Ram’s life inspires society to uphold truth, duty, justice and righteousness
OCTOBER 21 KULLU
Governor Shri Kavinder Gupta today formally inaugurated the week-long International Kullu Dussehra Festival at the historic Dhalpur Ground in Kullu, marking the beginning of one of the State’s most renowned cultural and religious celebrations.
The festivities commenced with the traditional Rath Yatra of Lord Raghunath Ji, with more than 347 local deities from different parts of the Kullu Valley participating in the historic congregation. Lady Governor Smt. Bindu Gupta was also present on the occasion.
Extending his greetings to the people on the auspicious occasion, the Governor said that Kullu Dussehra was not merely a religious festival but a living expression of Himachal Pradesh’s rich Dev Sanskriti, folk traditions, collective faith and social harmony.
The Governor said that the unique confluence of Dev and Lok Sanskriti makes Kullu Dussehra distinctive and gives it a special place on the cultural map of the country. He emphasised that traditions are not merely a legacy of the past but a source of strength and guidance for the present and the future. Preserving these traditions and transmitting them to younger generations, he said, was a collective responsibility.
Referring to the message of Vijayadashami, Shri Gupta said that the life of Lord Shri Ram inspires society to follow the path of truth, duty, sacrifice, justice and righteousness. He called upon people to remain united against social evils including drug abuse, violence, corruption and forces that seek to create discord in society.
Appealing to citizens to uphold the spirit of ‘Nation First’, the Governor said that national unity, integrity and social harmony were the collective responsibility of every citizen. “Our unity is our greatest strength,” he said, stressing the need to rise above differences and place national interest above all other considerations.
The Governor said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India was moving towards the goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. He said the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047 calls for an India that is economically prosperous, technologically advanced, socially harmonious and deeply rooted in its rich cultural heritage. He urged everyone to contribute actively towards realising this national resolve.
Highlighting the importance of environmental protection, Shri Gupta said that the mountains, forests, rivers and biodiversity of Himachal Pradesh were invaluable natural assets. He said the State’s Dev traditions also embody deep respect for nature and coexistence, and therefore development must go hand in hand with environmental conservation.
The Governor observed that the International Kullu Dussehra Festival had emerged as an important platform for promoting Himachal Pradesh’s cultural heritage globally. It also provided opportunities for tourism, local handicrafts, traditional products, employment and entrepreneurship, particularly for local communities and youth. He called for ensuring that the economic benefits of the festival reach local people while preserving its traditional character and authenticity.
Shri Kavinder Gupta also urged the youth to stay away from drugs, acquire new skills, embrace technology and innovation, protect the environment and remain connected with their cultural roots.
He expressed hope that the International Kullu Dussehra Festival would continue to strengthen the spirit of faith, cultural pride, social harmony and national unity, while showcasing the rich heritage of Himachal Pradesh to visitors from across India and the world.
The Governor prayed to Lord Raghunath Ji for peace, prosperity and well-being of the people of Himachal Pradesh and the nation.
Later, the Governor inaugurated the exhibitions put up by various government departments, boards, corporations and other non-government organizations. He also visited the stalls and appreciated the exhibits.
Earlier, the Governor was given a grand welcome on his arrival at Kullu.
Former Judge of Supreme Court Justice Sanjay Karol, Former Member of Parliament and Himachal Congress In-charge Smt. Rajni Patil, Shri Vinay Kumar, MLA and State Congress President, MLA’s Shri Sunder Singh Thakur, Shri Bhuvneshwar Gaur, Shri Lokinder Kumar and Shri Surinder Shouree, Shri Amit Kumar Sharma, Deputy Commissioner, Shri Abhishek S., Superintendent of Police and other prominent people were also present on the occasion.
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