President Murmu Urges Unity and Embracing India’s Rich Culture
President Draupadi Murmu has encouraged people to let go of the colonial mindset and embrace India’s unity in diversity, which she described as the nation’s strength and courage. She made this call while addressing a gathering during the inauguration of the Lokmanthan Bhagynagar-2024 event at Shilparamam in Hyderabad on Friday.
The President expressed pride in inaugurating this year’s Lokmanthan, noting that she had previously participated in the 2018 edition held in Ranchi. Reflecting on India’s history, Murmu spoke about how foreign powers had oppressed the country for centuries, attempting to destroy its culture, language, traditions, and customs. Despite these challenges, she emphasized that the people of India have kept their cultural heritage alive.
President Murmu highlighted India’s efforts to eliminate remnants of colonial influence. She mentioned the renaming of Raj Path to Kartavyapath and Durbar Hall to Ganatantra Mandap as steps toward removing symbols of slavery. She urged people to change their mindset as well, stating that only a shift in thinking could help the nation achieve its goals.
Murmu pointed to a recent example of change—a statue of a female judge without a black blindfold, symbolizing progress in societal thinking. She praised Lokmanthan as an excellent platform for strengthening India’s culture and traditions, describing the country’s heritage as a beautiful rainbow of diverse customs and practices.
The President stressed the importance of unity, whether individuals come from rural or urban backgrounds, and expressed pride in being Indian. She also appreciated the invocation of inspiring Indian women like Ahalyabai Holkar, Rani Rudramadevi, and Jhansi Lakshmibai during the event, noting how their legacies continue to inspire generations.
President Murmu praised the global recognition of Indian culture and traditions, mentioning that many people abroad are practicing Indian customs. She also welcomed participants from other countries, such as Indonesia, for joining Lokmanthan.
Highlighting India’s contributions to areas like spirituality, arts, music, education, and medicine, the President said these aspects are respected worldwide. She emphasized the need to share Indian knowledge with the world, especially during challenging global times, to promote harmony and improvement.
In her concluding remarks, Murmu said, “Unity and harmony are our civility and our future.” She called on everyone to work together to uphold these values. The event also saw the participation of Telangana Governor Vishnudev Verma, Union Minister G Kishan Reddy, RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Telangana Minister Sitakka, and other prominent figures.
