New Delhi, March 31 -- Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday addressed a gathering at the Purvanchal Mahotsav 'Maati 9', a festival celebrating the art, cuisine, tourism, and heritage of the Purvanchal region.

He hailed Purvanchal for its immense contributions to India's cultural and spiritual identity, according to a release.

Centred on the theme "Maati" (Soil), the event honours the connection between the people of the region and their ancestral roots.

The Speaker emphasised that "maati" of Purvanchal represents more than mere earth; it is a symbol of resilience, tradition, and a vibrant communal spirit.

"The fragrance of our soil defines our identity," he remarked, stressing that festivals like Maati 9 are essential to ensuring tha...