“Purvanchal’s Soil Defines Our Identity”: Om Birla
Lok Sabha Speaker highlights cultural roots, calls for preserving heritage at Maati-9 festival
- Om Birla addresses ‘Maati-9’ Purvanchal festival
- Stresses cultural preservation and youth connection to roots
- Highlights role of Purvanchal in India’s identity
- Calls region a hub for cultural tourism and growth
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 1st April: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday hailed the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Purvanchal while addressing the ‘Maati-9’ festival, a major event celebrating the region’s art, cuisine, and traditions.
Speaking at the festival, Birla said that the “maati” (soil) of Purvanchal is not just land but a symbol of resilience, tradition, and collective identity. He emphasised that such events play a vital role in keeping younger generations connected to their roots even as they progress globally.
“The fragrance of our soil defines our identity,” he said, underlining the emotional and cultural significance of heritage.
Highlighting the need for preservation, the Speaker called for safeguarding local dialects, folk arts, and traditional cuisines, stating that these elements strengthen India’s cultural fabric and national unity.
He also pointed out that Purvanchal holds strong potential as a centre for cultural tourism, which can boost local entrepreneurship and support sustainable economic development.
Praising the Purvanchali diaspora, Birla said people from the region have made their mark globally while continuing to uphold their cultural values.
“From Parliament to villages and global platforms, Purvanchal’s talent continues to contribute to the nation’s progress,” he added.
The ‘Maati-9’ festival, themed around the deep connection between people and their ancestral soil, showcased the diverse cultural heritage of the Purvanchal region.
