The Rekha Gupta Government on Saturday hosted a grand celebration titled “Meri Dilli Mera Desh — Unity in Diversity” at the Red Fort for the foundation day of Delhi and nine other States and Union Territories, including Kerala, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, and Lakshadweep. 

The event showcased the city’s historical legacy, rich cultural diversity and the spirit of unity on a single platform.

From Punjab’s makki di roti and sarson da saag to Kerala’s appam-stew pairings, each stall showcased them to represent the culinary heritage of a different state. Dishes from Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Delhi itself exhibited how food continues to bind the country’s diversity together.

The event was jointly organised by the Department of Education and Sports and the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC).

Artists from different States and Union Territories captivated the audience with their traditional performances.

Punjab’s energetic Bhangra, Kerala’s graceful Mohiniyattam, Karnataka’s Yakshagana, and the folk dances of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh reflected the rich cultural tapestry of India.

Along with these performances, projection mapping, a light and sound show, a food festival and a games zone added vibrancy and excitement to the evening. The highlight of the celebration was a live concert by renowned singer B Praak, whose patriotic and folk renditions filled the Red Fort with the spirit of unity, energy, and national pride.

A multi-cuisine food court, featuring dishes prepared by students and stalls offering Delhi’s famous local delicacies, became a major attraction for visitors. Addressing the gathering, she said that the history of Delhi stands as a symbol of struggle, resilience, and self-belief. “Through centuries, Delhi has faced numerous challenges and invasions, but each time it has risen stronger. The ancient walls of the Red Fort have witnessed the city’s rise, fall, and rebirth,” she remarked. The Chief Minister urged the people of Delhi to come together and move forward, leaving behind the difficulties of the past.

“Whether it is cleaning the Yamuna, controlling pollution, increasing greenery, or improving streets and drainage, every sphere of development is our responsibility. Our goal is to make Delhi a clean, developed, and empowered national Capital.”

On the occasion of National Unity Day, the Chief Minister paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, whose leadership continues to inspire unity and integrity across the nation. She announced that the Delhi Government will celebrate the State Days and cultural festivals of every Indian state with grandeur and enthusiasm.

The Chief Minister commended Minister of Culture Kapil Mishra for his initiative and said, “Delhi, as the Capital of India, represents the entire nation. From Jammu and Kashmir to the North-East, every state’s festival, culture, and traditions will be celebrated here with equal respect and joy. Delhi is the true reflection of Mini India.”

Speaking on the occasion, Education Minister Ashish Sood recalled how the Red Fort had witnessed the tears of displaced families who came from Punjab after the Partition in 1947, and also the resolve of Sardar Patel, who assured them that “Delhi is yours too.”

Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra stated that “Meri Dilli, Mera Desh” is not merely a slogan but a collective emotion representing pride, responsibility and commitment toward our city and our country. “Delhi is not just the Capital of India but a home to people from every part of the nation. Its diversity, culture, and unity are our true strength. Our vision is to make Delhi one of the world’s leading Capitals — clean, safe, cultural and globally admired for tourism. Through ‘Meri Dilli, Mera Desh,’ we aim to inspire every citizen to contribute to preserving Delhi’s beauty, heritage and spirit. When every Delhiite fulfills their share of responsibility, only then will Meri Dilli truly become Mera Desh,” he said.