From handmade lamps to designer wear, students add artistic flair to Karwa Diwali Mela

Apeejay College of Fine Arts (ACFA), Jalandhar, came alive with festive cheer, artistic expression and entrepreneurial enthusiasm as it organised the Karwa Diwali Mela under the joint aegis of the Departments of Design, Fine Arts, and Fashion Makeover. The annual event offered students a vibrant platform to showcase their creativity, artistic skills and business acumen while giving them practical exposure to marketing and entrepreneurship.

The occasion was graced by Ms. Sugandha, Director of Ganga Orthocare Hospital, Jalandhar, and Dr. Vibha Chitkara, Medical Director of NHS Hospital and Fertility Solutions, as special guests. Dr. Neerja Dhingra, Principal, warmly welcomed Dr. Sucharita Sharma, Director of Apeejay Education, along with the distinguished guests.

Welcoming the guests, Dr. Dhingra said it was a privilege to host accomplished personalities who had achieved remarkable success in their respective fields through creativity and dedication. She expressed confidence that their presence would inspire students to pursue their aspirations with greater enthusiasm and determination.

Highlighting the significance of the mela, Dr. Dhingra said the annual event provided students with an excellent opportunity to transform innovative ideas into tangible products while developing their artistic interests, marketing abilities and practical skills. She noted that students eagerly awaited the occasion every year, as it enabled them to gain valuable insights into entrepreneurial practices and understand the process of presenting and selling their creations.

Appreciating the students’ efforts, Dr. Sucharita Sharma observed that the mela reflected their imagination, innovation and creative potential. She particularly commended the stalls put up by the Interior Design students, which featured an impressive collection of woodcraft inlay, carved products, handmade lamps, clocks and other home décor items.

Dr. Sharma remarked that the beautifully crafted products could serve as thoughtful gifts for Diwali. She also encouraged visitors to purchase the students’ creations, emphasising that such support would motivate young artists and designers to further refine their skills and explore entrepreneurial opportunities.

The mela featured an extensive range of student-made products, including designer furniture, woodcraft items, decorative pieces, paintings, photo frames, cushion covers, block-printed kurtas and dupattas, artificial jewellery, nail art and wax laddu candles. Photo booths and food stalls added to the lively atmosphere, attracting students, faculty members and visitors.

Adding a traditional touch to the festivities, students of the Fashion Makeover Department applied beautiful mehndi designs to visitors on the auspicious occasion of Karwa Chauth. The activity complemented the Diwali celebrations and brought together artistic expression and cultural traditions. Students and faculty members participated enthusiastically, making the mela a memorable campus celebration.

Dr. Dhingra appreciated the dedicated efforts of Ms. Rajni Gupta, Ms. Rajni Kumar, Dr. Gagan Gambhir and Ms. Meenal Sandhu in ensuring the successful organisation of the event. She encouraged them to continue inspiring students to participate in creative initiatives, strengthen their professional skills and develop the confidence needed to become successful entrepreneurs.

The Karwa Diwali Mela celebrated not only the festive spirit but also the college’s commitment to experiential learning, creativity and the development of industry-ready skills.