Former Vice-President of India M. Venkaiah Naidu highlighted the importance of culture in addressing real human concerns like social harmony and environmental sustainability. Speaking at the 27th Foundation Day of Utkal University of Culture in Odisha, Naidu praised the state’s rich cultural heritage and its influence on everyday life.
Naidu encouraged students to honor tradition while embracing innovation, emphasizing that education should empower them to question, create, and serve society. He cautioned against development without cultural roots, stating that progress must be grounded in identity, ethics, and shared memory to retain human values.
Recognizing culture as a dynamic force, Naidu stressed the university’s role in reinterpreting traditions through research, documentation, and creative experimentation. He commended the institution’s interdisciplinary approach, community engagement, and the teachers’ commitment to maintaining a balance between academic excellence, ethics, and creative sensitivity.
Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati underscored the importance of viewing culture as a catalyst for innovation and sustainable livelihoods in a rapidly changing world. He urged students and alumni to leverage culture as a resource for employment generation, social cohesion, and sustainable development.
