Manipur: Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla urges citizens to embrace unity and progress

Imphal: The Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, on Friday, urged everyone to uphold the message of unity, peace, and progress and to draw inspiration from the 150-year-old sacred words "Vande Mataram" in building a strong and prosperous nation.

The Governor attended the Commemoration of 150 Years of Vande Mataram at Imphal, and reflected that the spirit of Vande Mataram continues to unite all Indians beyond barriers of region, language, and faith.

Speaking about Manipur’s rich legacy of patriotism and sacrifice, the Governor stated that the courage, resilience, and devotion of the people of Manipur reflect the very essence of Vande Mataram.

From the state’s historic heroes to its present-day achievers in sports, arts, and culture, Manipur continues to make the nation proud.

He noted that when the Constituent Assembly adopted Vande Mataram as the national song in 1950, it acknowledged its unmatched contribution in shaping the soul of the nation.

He called upon all citizens to let Vande Mataram be not just a song we sing, but a pledge we live by, to dedicate ourselves to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, a developed, united, and inclusive India.

The Governor appreciated the mass singing and choreographic presentations on Vande Mataram by Balmukunda Dev. Music College, the Government Dance College, and the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy, whose performances beautifully captured the patriotic fervour of the song.

He commended the Department of Art & Culture for its efforts in organising the commemorative event with such dignity and grandeur.

Several MLAs, the Chief Secretary, senior officers, and distinguished guests attended the occasion.