Patna: Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan visited Bihar on Sunday, marking his first trip to the state since assuming office. He attended the concluding session of the third edition of the Unmesa International Literature Festival at Bapu Bhawan in Patna, serving as chief guest. The event drew writers, intellectuals, researchers, and students, with over 550 attendees.
The Vice President was welcomed by Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan, Tourism Minister Raju Kumar Singh, Sahitya Akademi Chairman Madhav Kaushik, and Vivek Agarwal, Secretary of the Ministry of Culture. A minute of silence was observed in memory of 39 people who died in a stampede in Tamil Nadu.
In his address, Radhakrishnan highlighted Bihar’s cultural heritage, referring to the state as “the birthplace of Mata Sita” and praising its history of revolutions and social movements. Recalling his participation in the Janakendra movement led by Jayaprakash Narayan, he said Bihar’s traditions offer lessons in patience, courage, and unity amid linguistic diversity. He also noted the cultural significance of Chhath Puja, where the setting sun is worshipped alongside the rising sun.
After the festival, the Vice President travelled to Muzaffarpur to visit the historic Maa Chamunda Temple in Katra block, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Navratri. The temple committee highlighted Radhakrishnan’s long-standing personal connection with the shrine, noting past visits and religious activities he has conducted there.
Special security arrangements were deployed along the route and within the temple premises for the visit, which is expected to further enhance Bihar’s cultural and spiritual presence nationally. Governor Khan, Minister Singh, and other dignitaries will also be present.
