President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday inaugurated the Durbar Hall at Raj Bhavan, situated at Malabar Hill. He said transparency is the most important aspect of good governance in a democratic system and the modern concept of the Durbar promotes the same.
“The method of connecting with people through the Janata Darbar by the public authorities is becoming popular. Thus, in a new context, this Durbar Hall is a symbol of our new India, new Maharashtra and our vibrant democracy,” said the President.
The President also said that there is definitely something special in the people and the land of Maharashtra which repeatedly draws him here. Including this visit in the last four and a half years, he had come to Maharashtra about 12 times, he added. He said that Maharashtra is the land of spirituality as well as the land of brave struggles against injustice. This is also the land of the patriots as well as land of the devotees of God. Maharashtra is a major economic and cultural center of India. This state is blessed with talent and natural beauty. People of Maharashtra are known for their hospitality. Due to many such specialty, not only he, but countless people from India and abroad, being attracted to visit Maharashtra again and again.
However, the President further said that he was experiencing a emptiness. “A week ago we lost our dear Lata Didi. A great genius like her is born only once in a century. The music of Lataji is immortal which will always enchant all the music lovers. The memory of her simplicity and gentle nature will also be remain imprinted in the mind of the people” he said.
Noting that the construction of the Darbar Hall has been done keeping the heritage building’s feature intact, the President said that it is prudent to choose modernity according to the demand of the times while keeping the tradition alive. He congratulated the Governor of Maharashtra and state government for construction of the Darbar Hall with latest facilities.
Maharashtra Governor BS Koshyari said during his two and half year tenure he strived to transform Ran Bhavan to Lok Bhavan.
Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray said the Raj Bhavan, which was witness to the formation of Maharashtra State, is prepared itself to witness the transformation in a healthy democracy. He praised all those who were involved in the construction of new Darbar Hall while retaining its heritage features.
Also present were deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar, PWD Minister Ashok Chavan, Maharashtra Legislative Council deputy chairperson Neelam Gorhe, Maharashtra Legislative Assembly deputy speaker Narhari Zirwal and Tourism Minister Aaditya Thackeray.