The Governor and the Chief Minister appreciated West Bengal’s contribution to nation-building.

ITANAGAR: West Bengal Diwas was celebrated with cultural fervour at Raj Bhavan here on Saturday, with Governor KT Parnaik highlighting the state’s rich legacy and contributions to nation-building.

Addressing the gathering, the governor recalled West Bengal’s pivotal role in India’s freedom movement, social reform initiatives, literary renaissance and cultural awakening. He said the state has produced some of the country’s most influential thinkers, reformers, writers, artists and educationists, whose ideas continue to inspire generations. Noting that Bengal’s legacy of intellectual pursuit, creativity and social consciousness has significantly shaped modern India, he also appreciated the contributions of the Bengali community towards the socio-economic development and cultural enrichment of Arunachal Pradesh.

Parnaik further acknowledged the longstanding service of the Ramakrishna Mission in Arunachal, particularly in the fields of education, healthcare and social welfare.

The celebration featured a series of cultural performances showcasing Bengal’s artistic heritage, including Rabindra Sangeet, Bengali folk dances and Rabindra Nritya.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu, in a message on the occasion of Paschimbanga Diwas, said West Bengal occupies a unique place in India’s history and has played a defining role in shaping the country’s cultural, intellectual and political landscape. He highlighted the state’s contributions to literature, philosophy, science, art, music, industry and the freedom movement, and wished its people peace, harmony and continued progress.

Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein also extended greetings, describing West Bengal as a beacon of cultural, intellectual and social advancement whose contributions have profoundly influenced India’s history and development.