Delhi Chief Minister Atishi attended the annual Christmas and New Year celebration at the Delhi Assembly complex on Friday, emphasizing India’s culture of unity in diversity.
“Our culture is one of unity in diversity. We may differ in language, religion, attire, but in our hearts, we are all Indians, and we respect everyone,” CM Atishi said, underlining the ethos of inclusivity and mutual respect that defines India.
Key Highlights of the Speech
- Personal Reflection on Unity in Diversity:
CM Atishi shared a personal memory from her childhood at Delhi University, where festivals from different religions were celebrated with equal enthusiasm. “Growing up on that campus, we never felt that I belong to one religion and my neighbour belongs to another,” she recounted. - Critique of Social Divisions:
She lamented the divisions created by religion, caste, and language in contemporary society, contrasting them with India’s foundational values of unity. “The greatest tragedy of our country today is that we have built walls of religion, caste, and language among ourselves,” she said. - Government’s Commitment to Inclusivity:
Atishi highlighted her government’s decade-long efforts to uplift marginalized communities in Delhi, ensuring access to quality education and healthcare. “Every child, even if from a poor family, should have the opportunity to move forward. Even the poorest person should have access to good healthcare,” she asserted. - Message of Christmas:
Reflecting on the spirit of Christmas, CM Atishi described it as a reminder of empathy and compassion for the underprivileged.” Christmas is a message of empathy for those who have less than others. It is the duty of every individual, especially governments, to work towards improving the lives of those who have been less fortunate,” she said.
Acknowledgments and Gratitude
She expressed gratitude to Delhi Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel for promoting the vision of unity in diversity by celebrating festivals at the Assembly.
“I thank Speaker Ram Niwas Goel for embodying the dream of unity in diversity, as envisioned in the Constitution of India,” she said.
Remarks from Other Dignitaries
Speaker Ram Niwas Goel called Christmas a celebration of love and peace, emphasizing the importance of striving for global harmony.
The event also featured religious leaders, including:
- Archbishop Anil Joseph Thomas Kutti, Metropolitan Archbishop of Delhi
- Bishop Kuriakos Bharanikulangara of Faridabad
- Dr. Bishop Paul Swaroop, Bishop of Church of North India, Delhi Diocese
- Dr. Bishop Subodh C. Mondal, Bishop of Methodist Church of India
Conclusion
CM Atishi concluded her address by reiterating the commitment to peace, inclusivity, and social welfare, drawing inspiration from figures like Lord Krishna, Jesus Christ, and Guru Nanak.
“Together, we will continue working to embody the messages of peace from Lord Krishna, Jesus Christ, and Guru Nanak to make Delhi a better place,” she said.