New Delhi, January 23, 2026 | The Delhi Secretariat witnessed a vibrant cultural spectacle on Friday as the Statehood Day of Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Dadra & Nagar Haveli was celebrated with great enthusiasm and artistic fervour. The programme was part of an ongoing series of Statehood Day celebrations being organised by the Delhi government to honour the cultural identities of different states and Union Territories of the country.
Following the successful celebration of the Statehood Day of Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura earlier this week, the event once again highlighted India’s cultural diversity and national unity through folk dance, traditional music and regional performances.
Platform to Showcase Rich Cultural Heritage
The primary objective of the programme was to present the rich folk traditions, cultural practices and artistic heritage of Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Dadra & Nagar Haveli on a national platform. Through this initiative, the Delhi government aims to encourage cultural dialogue, mutual understanding and respect among people belonging to different regions of the country.
Artists representing the three regions brought their unique cultural expressions to the stage, offering the audience a glimpse into the diverse traditions that collectively define India’s cultural fabric.
Chief Minister Inaugurates the Programme
The cultural programme was formally inaugurated by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, who conveyed her greetings on the occasion of the Statehood Day of the three regions. She underlined the importance of celebrating the cultural identities of different states as a means to strengthen national integration.
The event was attended by Art, Culture and Language Minister Kapil Mishra, senior officials of the department, artists, and other distinguished guests. Their presence reflected the government’s emphasis on promoting cultural heritage as an integral part of governance and public life.
Folk Artists Bring Regional Traditions Alive
Organised under the aegis of the Sahitya Kala Parishad, the programme featured three cultural troupes comprising a total of 28 folk artists. The performers presented captivating dance and music performances deeply rooted in the folk traditions of Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Dadra & Nagar Haveli.
Dressed in traditional attire, the artists used expressive movements, regional instruments and folk melodies to depict the social and cultural ethos of their respective regions. The performances were met with enthusiastic appreciation from the audience, who witnessed a seamless blend of rhythm, colour and tradition.
Cultural Diversity as India’s Greatest Strength
Addressing the gathering, Art, Culture and Language Minister Kapil Mishra said that India’s cultural strength lies in its diversity. He noted that states such as Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Dadra & Nagar Haveli contribute immensely to the nation’s cultural heritage through their distinct folk traditions, music and art forms.
He emphasised that cultural events of this nature play a crucial role in preserving and promoting traditional art forms that have been passed down through generations. According to him, such programmes not only celebrate regional identities but also help foster mutual harmony and national unity.
Reinforcing the Spirit of Ek Bharat–Shreshtha Bharat
Officials said the programme reflects the Delhi government’s commitment to honouring the cultural identities of various states and Union Territories while reinforcing the spirit of Ek Bharat–Shreshtha Bharat. By providing a platform to diverse cultural expressions, the government aims to strengthen emotional and cultural bonds among citizens from different parts of the country.
The Statehood Day celebrations at the Delhi Secretariat continue to serve as a reminder that India’s unity is rooted in its diversity, and that cultural exchange remains a powerful medium for building national cohesion and shared pride.
