Uttarakhand CM refuses to wear robe at convocation, says ‘it’s a relic of colonial past’

Politely turning down the customary attire at the 15th convocation of the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies here, Trivendra Singh Rawat described it as a relic of the colonial era.

Uttarakhand chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat on Monday refused to wear a robe at a convocation ceremony here and suggested that a “purely Indian” attire be worn on such occasions.

Trivendra Singh Rawat refused to wear a robe at a convocation ceremony. (HT File Photo)

Politely turning down the customary attire at the 15th convocation of the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies here, Rawat described it as a relic of the colonial era.

“The country should take pride in its ancestors, its ancient wisdom and culture and should not give up its roots,” he said.

However, the other dignitaries attending the event, including Uttarakhand governor KK Paul and Union minister for human resource Prakash Javadekar, readily wore the robe.

Congratulating the students of the university on getting their degrees, Rawat said the young generation is the foundation of a strong India.

He said the youth should serve their country with the same dedication as the Hanuman served Lord Ram.