V-P Radhakrishnan inaugurates Pune Fesitval, says nation must never forget its history
Pune, Sep 18
Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Friday inaugurated the 38th Pune Festival at Shri Ganesh Kala Krida Rangmanch, Pune, reminding the nation must never forget its history and the great sacrifices made by its heroes.
The Vice President said the vision of Viksit Bharat encompasses not only economic growth and infrastructure but also an inclusive and equitable society rooted in its civilisational heritage.
He noted that events such as the Pune Festival can promote cultural exchange, tourism, local talent and national integration.
Emphasising the need to remain rooted in India's civilisational heritage, Radhakrishnan said that development must go hand in hand with preservation of heritage.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi," he said modernity and technological advancement need not come at the cost of traditions and cultural values.
Recalling the enduring legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, he said that his contribution to the preservation of Hindu Dharma and India's civilisational heritage must always be remembered.
He also highlighted the deep historical and cultural bonds between Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, noting that Tamil literary works have been preserved at the Saraswathi Mahal Library in Thanjavur because of Maratha leaders.
He also paid tribute to Lokmanya Tilak, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule and Babasaheb B.R. Ambedkar.
Appreciating Pune's growing global character, the Vice President lauded the performance of international students at the inauguration session.
He noted that students from around 20 countries participated in the Traditional Ganesh Worship programme, describing it as a beautiful manifestation of the spirit of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam."
He said Pune has emerged as a major centre of education, industry, sports, information technology, automobile manufacturing, tourism and horticulture, while retaining its cultural identity.
He credited the Pune Festival with contributing significantly to Pune's emergence as a "City of Festivals" and appreciated the vision of its founder, late Suresh Kalmadi.
— IANS
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