NEW DELHI: Aam Aadmi Party’s National Convener Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann participated as chief guests at Lovely Professional University’s (LPU) grand cultural festival, ‘One India Fest’.
The event celebrated India’s diversity and unity under the theme of “Mini India.”
Mr. Kejriwal described the festival as “a magnificent celebration of India’s unity”, praising Punjab as a growing center of education and cultural development. Chief Minister Mann highlighted the state government’s focus on education and youth development, stating, “Our objective is not just to give degrees, but to make youth cultured, talented, and patriotic citizens.”
Thousands of students from over 30 states showcased India’s rich heritage through folk dances, music, traditional attire, and cuisines. Performances included Punjab’s Bhangra, Rajasthan’s Ghoomar, Assam’s Bihu, Kerala’s Mohiniyattam, Gujarat’s Garba, and folk dances from Uttar Pradesh, bringing together the country’s cultural diversity on one platform.
The festival also featured traditional cuisines and handicraft exhibitions from various states, including Punjab’s Sarson ka Saag and Makki ki Roti, Bengal’s fish and Rasgulla, Hyderabad’s Biryani, Gujarat’s Dhokla and Thepla, Maharashtra’s Vada Pav, and South India’s Dosa-Idli. The displays of art, jewelry, and handicrafts reflected India’s rich creative heritage.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Kejriwal urged students to embrace the country’s diversity and foster a spirit of brotherhood: “India’s real strength lies in its diversity. When youth from different states, languages, and cultures come together and stand on one platform, it shows that we are all one.”
LPU Chancellor Ashok Mittal welcomed the leaders and highlighted the scale of the festival: “Our objective is to provide students with a platform where they not only showcase their culture but also understand and appreciate others’ cultures. This year, over 50,000 students, teachers, and guests participated.”
Mr. Kejriwal congratulated LPU for organizing the event and emphasized the importance of nurturing youth talent: “Punjab’s youth is India’s future. The energy and enthusiasm I witnessed here today assures me that India’s future is bright.”
‘One India Fest’ at LPU has become a national-level cultural platform, promoting the ideals of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” while inspiring youth to connect with their cultural heritage and contribute to the nation’s progress. The presence of both chief ministers added significance and prestige to this annual celebration of India’s unity and diversity.
