Modi inaugurates Swarnim Gujarat Mahotsav in Nagpur

Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the ‘Swarnim Gujarat Mahotsav’ being organized by the Shri Gujarati Samaj in the city. The event is being held on February 4,5 and 6, to celebrate the golden jubilee of the formation of Gujarat and Maharashtra – both were created on May 1, 1960.

“Over two lakh Gujaratis live in Vidarbha and Nagpur. Over the years they have assimilated with the locals and are proud to be called as Gujarati-Maharashtrians. The love for both the states is equal. To demonstrate this, we are holding joint celebrations for the golden jubilee of the two states,” said Samaj president Jaiprakash Parekh.

While the Gujarat CM inaugurated the celebrations, the next day Maharashtra chief minister Prithviraj Chavan has been specially invited to a function for releasing of a ‘Gaurav Granth’, a book featuring the contribution of prominent Gujaratis in various fields in the region.

Besides the two functions, a grand exhibition of arts, handicrafts, products manufactured by Gujarati entrepreneurs is on display at the SCZCC premises. Folk artists from Gujarat and well know artists will perform at cultural shows to be organized on the occasion, entry for which is free.

“As part of the celebrations a food festival is also being held where people can enjoy healthy and special dishes from Gujarat. We have formed separate committees to look after different aspects related to the three-day event so that not only Gujaratis but also other people of the region get a taste of our culture, cuisine and arts,” said Parekh. “17 dignitaries including Narendra Modi, Chavan, Union minister Praful Patel and ex-speaker Arun Gujarathi and several ministers from the Modi government are likely to grace the occasion,” said Parekh.