Uttar Pradesh, a state in northern India, will celebrate its foundation day on January 24, 2025. This year marks the 76th anniversary of the state's establishment. Uttar Pradesh Foundation Day, also known as UP Diwas or Uttar Pradesh Diwas, will be observed from January 24 to January 26, 2025. The state was formed on January 24, 1950, when the governor-general altered the name of the United Province to Uttar Pradesh. Below, you can learn more about the significance of this day.
Why do we celebrate UP Foundation Day?
The Governor of Uttar Pradesh has suggested celebrating UP Diwas similar to Maharashtra Day, with the aim of helping people better understand the history and culture of the state. Until 1834, Uttar Pradesh was part of the Bengal Presidency, but a fourth presidency was established—following the Bengal, Madras, and Bombay Presidencies.
This fourth presidency was named the Agra Presidency and was led by a governor. In 1858, the seat of power shifted from Agra to Allahabad (Prayagraj) when Lord Canning established the North Western Provinces. In 1868, the high court was relocated from Agra to Allahabad. In 1856, Awadh was placed under a chief commissioner, and the districts later merged with the North Western Provinces, becoming known as the North-Western Provinces and Oudh in 1877.
By 1902, it had come to be called the United Provinces of Agra and Oudh. The Government of India Act of 1935 later shortened the official name to the United Provinces. Finally, in 1950, Ram Naik proposed renaming the United Provinces to Uttar Pradesh.
Theme of UP Foundation Day
The theme of this year is "Uttar Pradesh: A Journey of Development and Heritage." The 76th Foundation Day celebration will be held in Lucknow, the state's capital, starting at 11 AM. The event will showcase the diverse and dynamic heritage of Uttar Pradesh.
