Chandigarh, Oct 8
AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday opened 'One India-2025', a mega cultural fest in Jalandhar city alongside AAP Rajya Sabha member Ashok Kumar Mittal.
This year's edition of Lovely Professional University (LPU) is themed 'Gatha-e-Bharat: Narratives of Monuments and History', which witnessed celebrations of unity in diversity.
The fest converted the campus into a "Mini-India", where students representing 28 states and eight union territories marched together in a procession of tableaus, folk dances, and traditional performances, each reflecting the distinctive spirit of their region.
Addressing the gathering, Kejriwal expressed his admiration for the fest, saying, "It feels like a grand festival of India is underway. The energy among the youth is incredible."
He highlighted India's strength in diversity, noting, "One nation, many languages, cultures, philosophies -- but one Hindustan. This diversity is our strength."
Chief Minister Mann said the university is known for its vivid portrayal of India's diversity, stating: "From Tamil Nadu to Ladakh, Tripura to Odisha, and Haryana to Punjab, every performance reflected the beauty and unity of our nation. Initiatives like 'One India' nurture this spirit of togetherness and strengthen the vision of India as a Vishwa Guru. Our youth are our greatest asset, if you channel your energy wisely, the nation's future will be unstoppable."
Reflecting on the festival's inception, Ashok Kumar Mittal shared, "Years ago, Kejriwal-ji suggested creating a platform where students from across states and nations could celebrate and learn from each other's cultures. That idea took shape as 'One India', and today, its 15th edition stands as a living example of unity through diversity."
He expressed pride in how the event has evolved into a symbol of youth connection, inclusivity, and cultural harmony under LPU's vision of holistic education.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While I appreciate the cultural celebration, I wish politicians would focus more on actual governance issues. Punjab needs better infrastructure and employment opportunities, not just festivals.
LPU always sets the bar high! I attended this fest 3 years ago and the energy is unbelievable. Students from Kashmir to Kanyakumari dancing together - this is the real India we should celebrate everyday! 🎉
As an exchange student from Canada, I attended this festival last year. The cultural diversity and warmth of Indian students was incredible. Every Indian should be proud of this unity in diversity!
More colleges should organize events like this. When our youth understand and appreciate each other's cultures, they become better citizens. Bhagwant Mann is right - our youth are our greatest asset.
ï¸15 years of One India fest! That's an amazing achievement. My daughter studies at LPU and she's been practicing for weeks for her state's performance. Such events build lifelong friendships across cultures.
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