Bihar Diwas Celebrated with Cultural Pride in Malaysia's Geeta Ashram
Bihar Diwas was celebrated with immense enthusiasm and cultural pride at Geeta Ashram in Malaysia on Sunday, March 22. The event brought together nearly 200 members of the Bihari community, along with their families and children, for an evening dedicated to culture, connection, and shared heritage.
Inauguration and Dignitary Addresses
The celebration commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the illumination of knowledge and unity. The chief guest, Vijayalakshmi Sunderrajan, Director of the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Indian Cultural Centre in Kuala Lumpur, delivered an inspiring address. "It is heartening to see the Bihari expatriate community and the local Bihari diaspora preserve and promote their rich cultural heritage in Malaysia, while simultaneously respecting and upholding the ethos of this country," she remarked. She further praised community leaders for their efforts in ensuring that the younger generation remains connected to their roots and cultural traditions.
Strengthening Diaspora-Homeland Ties
This year's Bihar Diwas was jointly organized by the Bihar Cultural Association (BCA) and the Bihar Foundation, KL Chapter, featuring video messages and Diwas wishes from key officials in Bihar. These included the Chairman of the Bihar Foundation, the Chief Secretary of Bihar, and Industries Minister Dilip Jaiswal, which significantly strengthened the emotional and cultural bonds between the diaspora and their homeland.
Alok Sinha, President of BCA, spoke with pride about the global impact of Bihar and its people. "We have seen a remarkable growth in our community involvement and engagement in cultural programmes organized and participated by the Bihari community," he stated, emphasizing that through talent, hard work, and values, Biharis are building a positive global image for the state.
Vibrant Cultural Performances
The cultural segment of the evening was a highlight, bringing the celebration to life with a series of engaging performances:
- A graceful Ganesh Vandana set a devotional tone for the event.
- Children's performances, including a devotional song and dance dedicated to Lord Ram and Krishna by kids aged 10 and below, showcased the younger generation's connection to their heritage.
- Traditional folk dances and Bhojpuri songs created a festive atmosphere, with many attendees joining in to celebrate together.
- A vibrant Holi-themed dance performance added color and energy, reflecting the joyous spirit of the occasion.
Additionally, ten-year-old Syed Ayan delivered a presentation on the "significance of Bihar," highlighting the state's well-known tourism destinations, historical landmarks, and cultural development, which educated and inspired the audience.
Community Unity and Heritage Preservation
Prabhat Kumar, Chairman of the BCA, commended the community for showcasing Bihar's rich heritage and creative talent in such a commendable and well-organized manner. The celebration underscored the growing strength and unity of the Bihar diaspora, demonstrating how deeply rooted traditions continue to thrive even far from home. It reinforced that Bihar is not merely a geographical location but an identity carried with pride across the world, fostering a sense of belonging and cultural continuity among expatriates.
The event successfully highlighted the importance of cultural preservation and community engagement, serving as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Bihari people in Malaysia.
