Hyderabad: The brilliant idea of connecting states to promote understanding and appreciation of each other’s culture was first conceived by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to honor Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s efforts in unifying the nation, Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Verma said. He inaugurated a three-day photo exhibition on ‘Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat’ at the Salarjung Museum organized by the Central Bureau of Communications on Monday.
The exhibition has 50 panels showcasing the arts, festivals, cuisine and monuments of Telangana and Haryana, the two states joined under the programme. It also includes expert talks by Padma Shri Mohammad Ali Baig and poet Goreti Venkanna.
In his inaugural address, the governor highlighted the importance of cultural unity in the midst of diversity. He praised India’s rich heritage and emphasized how the country’s diversity in art, music, dance and festivals strengthens its collective progress. Referring to the principles of dharma, he noted that the common values of right action and thought are reflected in all Indian cultures. Comparing festivals like Bathukamma in Telangana with those in Haryana, he said such similarities underscore India’s underlying unity despite regional differences.
Salar Jung Museum Director Ashish Goyal along with the Governor inaugurated three self-ticketing kiosks to improve visitor experience to facilitate entry into the museum.