Celebrating festivals strengthens national unity: Guv

Bhubaneswar: Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Tuesday said celebrating each other's festivals strengthens national unity and reflects the true spirit of India's diversity.Addressing a joint celebration of Odia New Year (Pana Sankranti), along with Bihu, Vishu, Puthandu, Poila Boishakh and Baisakhi, coinciding with Himachal Pradesh Formation Day here, the governor said India's diversity is not a weakness but a source of strength."When we celebrate each other's festivals, we reinforce the bonds that unite us as one nation. This shared spirit reflects the essence of India, where diversity strengthens our collective identity and inspires us to move forward together," he said.Highlighting the significance of Pana Sankranti, he said the festival marks the beginning of the traditional Odia New Year and showcases the state's rich cultural heritage.He noted that the custom of preparing and sharing pana (a traditional drink made of fruits) symbolises compassion, generosity and togetherness, while the associated rituals and charitable acts reflect timeless values of service and empathy.