Northeast India Takes Center Stage: RJS Conference Explores Culture, Unity, and Rare Diseases - January 19, 2025
Press Release 20-01-2025
Northeast India Takes Center Stage: RJS Conference Explores Culture, Unity, and Rare Diseases.
RJSIANS Celebrated Foundation Day of Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura.
New Delhi. A conference hosted by the Ram Janaki Sansthan Positive Broadcasting House (RJS PBH) on January 19, 2025, shone a spotlight on India's northeastern states, celebrating their unique cultural heritage, addressing regional challenges, and promoting the power of positive journalism in fostering a more unified nation. The "Inter-State Diaspora Conference," the 312th event in RJS PBH's series on India's positive rise, coincided with the upcoming statehood day celebrations of Manipur, Tripura, and Meghalaya on January 21.
Uday Kumar Manna, RJS PBH's founder, commenced the event with a poem capturing the essence of the Northeast's beauty and diversity, which he described as a "unique confluence of nature and culture." He reiterated the organization's commitment to fostering national unity through media, urging listeners to "ignite a lamp instead of waiting for someone else" and to avoid forgetting their responsibilities.
Rishikan Sharma, Co-ordinator Ekta Parishad from Manipur, offered a unique perspective on the region's distinct identity, highlighting its picturesque landscapes, history as an independent kingdom, and rich cultural traditions, including the renowned Ras Lila dance. "It is a very unique thing," he said, referring to the region's cultural uniqueness. He candidly addressed regional challenges, including differing viewpoints within society, while emphasizing the prevalence of goodwill, stating, "In every society, in every place, there are good people and bad people."
A significant focus of the conference was the often-overlooked issue of rare diseases. Dr. Ramayya Muthyala, a special guest from
Indian Organization for Rare Diseases (IORD),South America, shared his expertise and passion for helping those affected. He announced his plans to visit India in February to connect with and support individuals suffering from these conditions, particularly in tribal areas. "No matter where I am, India is still my motherland," he affirmed. "I may be adopted by somebody else, but I cannot forget my mother who gave me birth." He emphasized the need for greater awareness: "I guarantee you, sir, you just open your eyes, look around, you will find them people with rare diseases."
Ishaq Khan, representing Doordarshan Siliguri, some years ago,shared his firsthand experiences of the region's unique cultural tapestry, influenced by its proximity to Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. He described the local languages, and the enchanting Bhavaiya folk songs, noting, "The cultural exchange, the way people interact, it's unique in the Northeast." He also mentioned the "Madar Utsav," a local festival celebrated in February and March.
Sunil Kumar Singh ,a senior official from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), emphasized the role of culture in fostering peace and understanding. He detailed ICCR's efforts to promote Indian culture on a global scale, with particular attention to showcasing the richness of the Northeast, stating that they are giving more preference to the region.
Dr. Hari Singh Pal, editor of the New York-based magazine "Saurabh," shared his extensive travels throughout India, emphasizing the unparalleled beauty and cultural depth of the northeastern states. He quoted Jawaharlal Nehru's famous description of Manipur as the "jewel of India" and highlighted the region's unique artistic and cultural expressions, such as the traditional dances of Mizoram involving bamboo. "If you haven't seen Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, you haven't seen India," he asserted. He also mentioned Chaumin's popularity in the region.
DP Kushwaha highlighted the importance of national integration, drawing inspiration from the poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar. Chaudhary Indraj Singh Sahni stressed the need to view all Indians as part of one family, irrespective of their origin or region. He emphasized that migration within the country should not be a point of contention. Ashok Kumar Malik Poet of nature and Life, discussed the importance of preserving traditional ways of living alongside modern advancements, citing the example of the living root bridges in the Northeast, which are recognized as marvels of bioengineering. He also touched upon the significance of preserving natural sites like the Ramsar site, Loktak Lake. Sudip Sahu advocated for greater understanding and support for those affected by rare diseases, suggesting that blood tests before marriage could help prevent certain genetic conditions.
RJS PBH Positive Ambassador Satendra Tyagi and Suman Tyagi infused the event with humor and positivity, emphasizing the importance of laughter and a positive outlook on life. They also promoted the RJS PBH's ग्रंथ (anthology) series. RJSian Brajkishore spoke about the significance of the Hindi language, quoting, "If you can speak, speak Hindi. Hindi is our language." Head, RJS Yuva Toli ,Patna Sadhak Om Prakash shared his insights on the connection between spiritual science and overall well-being, highlighting the importance of a positive mindset for health. He also announced a special program on Republic Day focusing on "Jeevan Rakshak Vidya" (life-saving knowledge). RJS PBH Welcome Committee,Sweety Paul, drawing on her experience with the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), highlighted the vibrant cultural exchange that takes place at events like the India International Trade Fair, where the Northeast has a significant presence.
The RJS PBH's "Inter-State Diaspora Conference" successfully brought India's northeastern states into focus, celebrating their cultural richness, addressing regional issues, and underscoring the unifying power of positive journalism. The event served as a reminder of the nation's diversity and the importance of collective efforts towards a more inclusive and harmonious future. It highlighted the critical need for awareness and support for those suffering from rare diseases and showcased the power of media in bridging divides and fostering understanding.
Akanksha
Head Creative Team
RJS PBH
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