Jalandhar August 13 (Jaswinder Singh Azad)- As part of the 80th Independence Day celebrations, Apeejay College of Fine Arts, Jalandhar, organised a special cultural initiative to connect students with the rich heritage and diverse cultural legacy of the nation. The college consistently strives to impart a deep sense of pride and belonging towards the country among its students, while inspiring them to appreciate India’s cultural diversity and uphold the values of unity, responsibility and dedicated citizenship.
Principal Dr. Neerja Dhingra, expressing her views on the occasion, said, “As we enter the 80th year of Independence, it is our moral responsibility to acquaint the younger generation with our country’s traditions and heritage in a manner that touches their hearts and inspires them to sincerely fulfil their duties as responsible citizens.”
With this objective, the NSS Wing of the college organised a special competition under the theme ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ to commemorate the 80th Independence Day. The event introduced students to the diverse culture, traditional attire, festivals and cuisine of various Indian states and regions, including Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Kashmir, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Haryana and Gujarat. Each team comprised three students—one mentor and two mentees. The participants represented their assigned state or region by wearing traditional attire and jewellery associated with it, providing them with an engaging opportunity to explore and showcase India’s rich cultural diversity.
The judges interacted with the participants and asked questions
The judges for the competition were Mr. Rajesh Kalsi from the Department of Design, Dr. Navjot Deol from the Department of English, and Dr. Vishav Bandhu Verma from the Department of History. The judges interacted with the participants and asked questions related to the environment, culture, festivals, traditions and food habits of the respective regions. The students responded with great enthusiasm and confidence.
The first position was secured by the Maharashtra team, comprising Mentor Durvish Khanna and Mentees Lakshmi and Krishna. The second position was jointly secured by the Gujarat team, comprising Mentor Sahil and Mentees Niharika and Pratham, and the Tamil Nadu team, comprising Mentor Kanika and Mentees Nonika and Vishnu. The third position was secured by the Rajasthan team, comprising Mentor Mannat Kochar and Mentees Dilpreet and Nishant.
Ms. Kreetina Rai highlighted the importance of using the freedom of expression
Speaking on the theme ‘Freedom of Language’, Ms. Kreetina Rai, from the Department of English, highlighted the importance of using the freedom of expression with sensitivity and responsibility. She emphasised that one must think carefully before speaking, as words once spoken cannot be taken back. She further stated that freedom of speech should not be mistaken for the freedom to say anything without restraint; responsible communication demands that we express our thoughts thoughtfully and ensure that our words do not hurt or offend the sentiments of others.
Lovisha, a first-year B.A. student, added a patriotic fervour to the programme with a spectacular dance performance, filling the atmosphere with the spirit of patriotism. Ms. Chetna and Ms. Sanjeevani Bhalla conducted the programme with excellent anchoring and added charm and vibrancy to the event.
Dr. Neerja Dhingra appreciated the dedicated efforts of NSS Wing Dean Dr. Simkee Dev and Dr. Monica Anand, Dean Functions, in the successful organisation of the programme. The event served as a meaningful celebration of India’s unity in diversity while sensitising students towards the nation’s rich cultural heritage and inspiring them to become responsible and aware citizens.