A Legacy That Inspires: Jalandhar College marks late Founder Chairman Dr Stya Paul’s 107th birth anniversary

Apeejay College of Fine Arts (ACFA), Jalandhar, paid a heartfelt tribute to its late Founder Chairman, Dr. Stya Paul, on his 107th birth anniversary, celebrating the remarkable legacy of an educationist, entrepreneur, freedom fighter and social worker. The commemorative programme highlighted his deep commitment to education, human values and the holistic development of young minds.

The programme commenced under the guidance of Dr Arun Mishra and Dr Amita Mishra with a soulful bhajan cherished by Dr Stya Paul. The performance was presented by students Harsifat, Ghazal, Ramneek, Harleen, Diya and Sonal, who have brought laurels to the institution through their achievements at the National Youth Festival.

Paying tribute to the visionary founder, Principal Dr Neerja Dhingra observed that ACFA’s achievements across music, theatre, dance and fine arts, including its success at the National Youth Festival, reflect the fulfilment of Dr Stya Paul’s vision. She emphasised that his dream of providing young people with opportunities to discover and nurture their talents continues to find expression through the college’s accomplishments.

Dr Dhingra also shared the message from   Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairman, Apeejay Stya & Svran Group, Chancellor Apeejay Stya University, and Chairman, Apeejay Education  . The message remembered Dr Stya Paul as not only a distinguished entrepreneur and eminent educationist but also a great freedom fighter and dedicated social worker who had immense love for children. He constantly encouraged them to dream big and work tirelessly to transform their aspirations into reality.

The message further highlighted Dr Stya Paul’s belief that work itself was worship. His disciplined life, willingness to help others and commitment to human values remain an inspiration for generations. It called upon everyone to honour his memory by internalising these values and passing them on to future generations.

Recalling fond memories of Dr Stya Paul, Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia shared his words of wisdom: “Just do your duty, and success will automatically come to you.” His emphasis on sincerity, hard work and duty continues to resonate with students and educators alike.

The celebration also featured captivating cultural performances. Harman Kaur, a student of the Music Department, mesmerised the audience with a melody in Raag Pahadi on the Dilruba. Under the guidance of Dr Mickey Verma, Kanishka presented an evocative dance portraying the playful disagreement and eventual reconciliation between Radha and Krishna, leaving the audience deeply moved.

A significant highlight of the occasion was the presentation of the Dr Stya Paul Award to Harsifat Kaur, M.A. Music Vocal, 3rd Semester, and Purva Aneja, B.A., 5th Semester. Recognising their exemplary moral values and achievements across diverse fields, the awardees received certificates along with cash prizes.

A video depicting key glimpses from Dr Stya Paul’s life was also screened, offering new students an insight into the founder’s inspiring journey and contribution to education and society. Concluding the programme, Dr Dhingra urged students to understand the importance of discipline and embrace ethical values in their lives, encouraging them to strive towards becoming worthy recipients of the Dr Stya Paul Award in the future.

The celebration thus served as a meaningful reminder that Dr Stya Paul’s legacy lives on not merely through institutions and achievements, but through the values of hard work, discipline, service and compassion that continue to shape young lives.