Bihar Foundation Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm at Punjab Lok Bhavan, where Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Governor of Punjab and Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, along with his wife Smt. Anita Kataria, presided over the function. Shri Kataria highlighted Bihar’s rich historical, cultural, and intellectual heritage and extended his greetings to the people of the state, wishing them continued progress, unity, and prosperity.
The celebration, held in the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, showcased Bihar’s cultural heritage through engaging presentations. The programme included vibrant folk performances such as Jhijhiya, Jat Jatin, and Chhatt Puja.
Presented by the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC), these performances showcased the state’s diverse traditions and impressed the audience. A video message from the Governor of Bihar and a documentary film on the state were also shown during the programme.
In his address, the Governor said that celebrating foundation days of different states promotes cultural diversity and strengthens national unity. He noted that such events encourage cooperation, harmony, and mutual respect among states.
Referring to Bihar’s history and culture, the Governor said the state has contributed greatly to education, philosophy, governance, and social thought, and has also been a meeting point of major religions such as Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, and Hinduism. He highlighted that the bond between Bihar and Punjab is strengthened by shared spiritual heritage, with Takht Sri Patna Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh, symbolizing a lasting connection based on courage, devotion, and service.
He added that this shared legacy reflects India’s unity in diversity and that the talent and hard work of Bihar’s people continue to contribute to the nation’s development. The Governor called upon citizens to maintain social harmony and work together for a strong and developed India.
Also present on the occasion were Additional Solicitor General of India Shri Satya Pal Jain; Chief Secretary of Punjab Shri K.A.P. Sinha; Principal Secretary to the Governor of Punjab Shri Vivek Pratap Singh; Chief Secretary, U.T. Chandigarh, Shri H. Rajesh Prasad; and distinguished guests from Chandigarh,Punjab and Bihar.