State Art, Culture and Languages Minister Kapil Mishra extended greetings to citizens on behalf of the Delhi government as a grand cultural programme was organised at the Delhi Secretariat on Monday, 5 May 2025, to mark Gujarat and Maharashtra Day. The event, organised by the Sahitya Kala Parishad under the Department of Art, Culture and Languages, brought together around 25 artists in a celebration of the two states' rich cultural heritage.

Cultural Performances at the Heart of the Celebration

The programme was marked by vibrant folk performances representing both states. Maharashtra's Lavani, Lezim, and Koli dances took the stage alongside Gujarat's Dandiya Raas, Garba, and Tippani, according to an official statement. The performances, appreciated by the audience, portrayed themes of beauty, love, devotion, and social issues through dance. Artists also presented devotional pieces dedicated to Goddess Durga and Lord Ganesha.

What Minister Kapil Mishra Said

Minister Mishra underscored the contributions of both states to India's national development. He described Gujarat as not only culturally and historically rich but also a major pillar of the country's economic, industrial, agricultural, and energy sectors. "The state plays a decisive role in strengthening India's economic growth, employment generation, and global identity," Mishra said. He also credited the 'Gujarat Development Model', initiated under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as an inspiration for other states across the country.

On Maharashtra, Mishra described it as the land of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and a major contributor to India's economy, industry, agriculture, film industry, and infrastructure. "The state continues to play a vital role in strengthening the country's economy, generating employment, and enhancing its global identity," he added.

Delhi's Cultural Outreach Under Chief Minister Gupta

Mishra noted that under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the Delhi government has been organising state day celebrations for various states to promote the country's diverse cultural identity. He said Delhi is drawing inspiration from the Gujarat Development Model and moving towards self-reliance and the goal of a 'Developed Delhi' through good governance, e-governance, welfare schemes, ease of doing business, and promotion of start-up culture. He also referred to the recently organised 'Somnath Swabhimaan Parv', dedicated to the faith associated with the holy shrine of Somnath, for which the Delhi government had operated a special train for the Somnath Yatra.

Broader Vision: Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat

Mishra stated that such events are being organised in line with Prime Minister Modi's vision of 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat', aimed at strengthening national unity through the celebration of India's diverse regional cultures. This is part of a continuing series of state-day events hosted by the Delhi government at the Secretariat. With more such celebrations planned, the initiative is expected to deepen cultural ties between Delhi and states across the country.