Jalandhar March 6 (Jaswinder Singh Azad)- Apeejay College of Fine Arts, Jalandhar celebrated International Women’s Day with great enthusiasm, dedicating the occasion to Mrs. Sushma Paul Berlia, a living embodiment of empowered womanhood and visionary leadership. Mrs. Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairperson, Apeejay Education; Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, and Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University, continues to inspire generations through her commitment to education, innovation, and social progress.
The celebration was graced by Ms. Akarshi Jain (IPS), Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police-1, Jalandhar, as the Chief Guest, while Dr. Sucharita Sharma, Director, Apeejay Education, Jalandhar was present as the Guest of Honour.
Welcoming the distinguished guests, Principal Dr. Neerja Dhingra expressed her appreciation for their presence. She remarked that the visit of a dynamic, progressive and accomplished IPS officer like Ms. Akarshi Jain undoubtedly inspires students to pursue excellence with courage and determination. Extending a warm welcome to Dr. Sucharita Sharma, she acknowledged her unwavering dedication and visionary leadership in steering Apeejay institutions towards greater academic heights.
Dr. Dhingra observed that Apeejay College of Fine Arts stands as a remarkable testimony to the golden journey of women empowerment. She highlighted that the institution’s legacy has been shaped by the farsighted vision of Mrs. Rajeshwari Paul, the inspiring partner of the Founder Chairman Dr. Stya Paul, the creative leadership of Mrs. Sushma Paul Berlia, and the progressive outlook of Dr. Neha Berlia, Co-Owner and Director, Family Business Board, Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, and Lead – Education Vertical, Apeejay Education. She added that their collective vision has enabled the college to establish a distinguished identity at the national level while continuing its dignified march towards greater excellence.
The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the sacred lamp
The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the sacred lamp, symbolising the triumph of knowledge and empowerment. The occasion witnessed a documentary highlighting the inspiring life journey of Mrs. Sushma Paul Berlia, reflecting her remarkable contributions to education and society.
Marking the spirit of the day, several distinguished alumni of the college who have excelled in their respective professional fields were felicitated for their achievements. The honourees included: Ms. Advita Tiwari – Leading Businesswoman (Commerce and Management), Ms.Reebhumika – Global Customer Experience Manager, FedEx, Gurugram (Social Sciences and Humanities), Ms. Nandita Kakkar – Sustainability Consultant, KPMG, Bengaluru, Ms. Jyotika Verma – Renowned Dancer and Freelancer (Performing Arts), Ms.Nisha Pameh – Renowned Vocalist (Performing Arts), Ms.Anshika – Owner and Creative Head (Design and Applied Arts), Ms. Manpuneet – Design and Applied Arts, Ms.Swati Marwaha – Clinical Head, Pediatrics, Abhinav Bindra Targeting Performance (Physiotherapy).
Expressing their gratitude, the honoured alumni shared that the confidence, academic guidance from faculty, and numerous opportunities to showcase their talent during their college years played a crucial role in shaping their professional journeys and helping them reach new heights in their respective domains.
Addressing the gathering, Ms. Akarshi Jain (IPS) spoke about the evolving landscape of women’s participation in leadership roles. She noted that while women entered the police services in the 1970s in limited numbers, today nearly 30–40% of IPS officers are women, reflecting the steady progress towards gender equality. She encouraged students to believe in their capabilities and pursue their dreams fearlessly, emphasising that no destination remains unattainable when one has confidence and determination.
Students of the Department of Performing Arts presented a captivating dance performance
Adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the celebration, students of the Department of Performing Arts presented a captivating dance performance on the theme of women empowerment, depicting the triumph of Goddess Durga over evil forces and the valour of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, leaving the audience deeply moved.
The programme was gracefully conducted by Ms. Rajni Kumar, whose eloquent anchoring added charm and coherence to the event.
Appreciating the collective efforts behind the successful organisation of the event, Principal Dr. Neerja Dhingra commended the dedication of Programme In-charges Dr. Monica Anand and Dr. Manisha Kaushal, along with Event Coordinator Dr. Payal Arora, for their meticulous planning and sincere commitment in making the celebration a memorable and inspiring occasion.