Apeejay Stya University commemorates Smt. Rajeshwari Paul’s 100th Birth Anniversary

On a day imbued with reverence and remembrance, Apeejay Stya University in Gurugram held a special assembly to commemorate the 100th birth anniversary of Smt. Rajeshwari Paul, the first lady of the Apeejay Stya Group. This solemn occasion saw students, teachers, and staff coming together to honour a woman whose life and legacy have left an indelible mark on the institution.

The day commenced with the chanting of shlokas, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere. The ceremonial lamp was lit, symbolising the illumination of wisdom and guidance that Smt. Rajeshwari Paul provided throughout her life. The attendees then offered heartfelt floral tributes and prayers to her portrait, a moment that encapsulated the deep respect and admiration held for her.

Adding to the solemnity of the event, students sang two bhajans, infusing the air with devotional melodies that resonated with the spirit of the occasion. These hymns not only paid tribute to Smt. Rajeshwari Paul’s memory but also underscored her love for the Fine Arts, an aspect of her personality that was well-remembered and cherished.

A poignant message from Mrs. Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairman of Apeejay Stya & Svran Group, Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University, and Chairman of Apeejay Education, was read by the acting Vice Chancellor, Dr. Vyas M Shingatgeri. 

In her message, Mrs. Berlia highlighted the profound impact that Smt. Rajeshwari Paul had on those around her, describing her as a source of inspiration and a pillar of support

“Today is a very special day – the 100th Birth Anniversary of my beloved mother, Mrs Rajeshwari Paul ji. In fact the day is so special that I want it to be a unique day for a special kind of celebration- a celebration that acknowledges the art appreciation, aesthetics, and generosity that were unique to Mrs Rajeshwari Paul ji. Rightfully, these  have organically become the characteristics of Apeejay Education as well. 

Love for Art and Culture was ingrained in the very persona of Rajeshwari Paul ji. She had an abiding love for both performing Arts and Visual Arts etal. Mrs. Rajeshwari Paul’s vision was to facilitate holistic development in the educational arena, through the promotion of art. She was a noble soul with a vibrant personality, known always for giving, unconditional love and grace. She had an MA in English literature, was intelligent and ebullient, had wide ranging interests and was a charming conversationalist. She was fond of dancing and swimming, among other things. She loved to play harmonium and had a keen interest in Indian classical dance Kathak.

I am glad that we are celebrating her birthday as a day to rejoice and appreciate dance, drama, theatre, and display of art exhibition, etc. as also for recognising aesthetics and talent during the Special Assembly that is being conducted.This Special Celebration is in Rajeshwari Paul ji’s sweet remembrance as she was someone who celebrated different forms of arts in her lifetime and even promoted them to reach out to maximum number of people. She was an inspirational source to my esteemed father Dr Stya Paul – industrialist, philanthropist, freedom fighter, administrator, educationist, and above all a great human being who stood for promoting art and culture of India at a time when these were not valued as much as now. Both my parents shared each other’s nobility, kindness, hard work, commitment, love for Indian art and culture and simple living with high ideals rarely found in the fast materialistic world of today. I feel that when very few institutions envisioned to promote arts as mainstream courses, Dr Stya Paul , with the able support of Smt. Rajeshwari Paul brought the fine arts from the fringes of curriculum to the folds and incepted Rajeshwari Kala Sangam purely dedicated to the promotion of Art and Culture of India. It evolved as a temple of arts where renowned artists mesmerized the audiences. It also paved the way for the Apeejay College of Fine Arts (ACFA) – an oasis of Art, Culture, Education and beyond in the region.

Even though Smt. Rajeshwari Paul’s physical presence is not with us, but her legacy of art, culture and generosity of spirit continues to live and thrive in the institutions of Apeejay Education and in the hearts of all of us. This special celebration is all about the positive qualities she embodied. Let us today remember and uphold the ethos she exemplified- compassion, generosity, kind-heartedness, humility and the joy of giving.”

Smt. Rajeshwari Paul was much more than just the first lady of the Apeejay Stya Group; she was a beacon of love and compassion. Her noble personality, coupled with her passion for the Fine Arts, left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. She was remembered not only for her supportive role to Chairman Sir but also for the countless lives she touched with her warmth and generosity.

The assembly at Apeejay Stya University was a testament to Smt. Rajeshwari Paul’s enduring legacy. It was a day of reflection and gratitude, honoring a woman who played a pivotal role in the foundation and growth of the Apeejay Stya Group. As the university community gathered to celebrate her 100th birth anniversary, they reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the values and principles she embodied, ensuring that her spirit continues to inspire future generations.

The event concluded with a renewed sense of purpose among the attendees, as they pledged to carry forward the legacy of Smt. Rajeshwari Paul, embodying her values in their personal and professional lives.