Apeejayites gear up for Golden Jubilee celebration of Apeejay College of Fine Arts, Jalandhar & Rajeshwari Kala Sangam

Fifty years ago, a visionary dream took shape – one that nurtured artistic talent and celebrated India’s rich cultural heritage. Today, Rajeshwari Kala Sangam and Apeejay College of Fine Arts (ACFA), Jalandhar, stand as testaments to that dream, having become a hub of creativity, learning, and artistic excellence. As they prepare to mark this significant milestone with the grand 6th Rajeshwari Kala Mahotsav, the excitement is palpable.

From April 2 to April 5, 2025, ACFA, Jalandhar will be abuzz with vibrant performances, hands-on workshops, exhibitions, and competitions, bringing together some of India’s most celebrated artists, musicians, and dancers. This grand event, organised under the esteemed leadership of Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairman, Apeejay Stya & Svran Group, Chancellor Apeejay Stya University, and Chairman, Apeejay Education, is not just a festival – it is a tribute to Late Smt. Rajeshwari Paul, wife of Late Founder Chairman Dr Stya Paul.

A Festival of Grandeur and Reflection

Sharing her thoughts Dr. Sucharita, Director, Apeejay Education, Jalandhar, expressed, “6th Rajeshwari Kala Mahotsav 2025, serves as a melting pot assimilating the rare art forms by inviting artists and artisans from different parts of the country to create and exhibit their skills in the form of workshops, competitions, performances and a unique Inter-State Craft Mela. It is heartening to note the overwhelming response of the people from different parts of the Country like Karnataka, Odisha, Maharashtra, Chattisgarh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Delhi, Chandigarh, UP, MP, who are participating in all segments of this Mahotsav very enthusiastically and vibrantly. It is going to be a very vibrant and enriching experience of mini-India fostering a sense of belonging and appreciation for the rich tapestry of cultures represented by its participants.”

She further added, “As we embark on the Grand Celebrations, we assure ourselves that this Golden Jubilee Celebration marks the beginning of a new journey. There are many more milestones to achieve, many more lives to shape and many more dreams to fulfill. With the continued support of our visionary leadership, talented students, able faculty and shining alumni, we would surely soar higher, making the Country proud.”

The prestigious The Rajeshwari Kala Samman award 2025, dedicated to the memory of Madam Rajeshwari Paul, continues to honor distinguished artists of national and international repute. This year, the honor will be bestowed upon Padma Shri Malini Awasthi, the celebrated folk singer, and Dr. Prem Singh, a Triennale Award-winning artist in painting.

The Soul of ACFA,Jalandhar: Stories of Dedication and Passion

The institution’s 50-year journey is not just about events and accolades- it is about the people who have been part of it. Dr. Neerja Dhingra, Principal of ACFA, Jalandhar takes pride in the institution’s journey, “As we celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Apeejay College of Fine Arts, Jalandhar we proudly reflect on five decades of igniting imagination, fostering creativity, and cultivating excellence. This milestone marks our continued commitment to nurturing talent, inspiring innovation, and shaping the artistic landscape of our nation.”

For Dr. Arun Mishra, Cultural Advisor, ACFA, Jalandhar the Golden Jubilee is a deeply personal moment, “It fills me with immense pride and gratitude to reflect on my lifelong bond with ACFA, Jalandhar. I have been privileged to serve since its inception – a legacy spanning three generations, from my father, Dr. Shankar Lal Mishra, its founding principal, to my son, Dr. Anadi Mishra. As we celebrate 50 splendid years, I honor the vision of Late Dr Stya Paul, Founder Chairman , Apeejay Stya Group & Apeejay Education, whose dream of advancing the fine arts has flourished under the devoted stewardship of his family. ACFA’s pioneering role in introducing dance and sculpture and its tradition of appointing distinguished maestros from illustrious gharanas have cemented its legacy. My deepest wish is that ACFA, Jalandhar continues to shine as a beacon of artistic pride for generations to come.”

For Basudeb Biswas from the Department of Sculpture, the celebration is deeply personal,“For 40 years, this college has been my second home, shaping lives and dreams. I’ve witnessed its growth, celebrated its successes, and cherished countless memories. I have created an installation ‘Golden Legacy’ dedicated to the efforts of all those who have contributed to the growth of this institution. May it soar higher and higher.”

Similarly, Anil Gupta, Head of the Applied Arts Department, feels immense joy in seeing the college flourish,“I have seen the tremendous progress of ACFA, Jalandhar from a small sapling to a grown-up tree. It is heartwarming that the Apeejay family is celebrating this mega event with art and cultural programs. The presence of Madam Sushma Paul Berlia and her family members makes this even more special.”

A Legacy Embraced by the Younger Generation

This historic milestone is not just being celebrated by faculty and alumni, but also by the current students, who feel privileged to be part of ACFA’s golden legacy.

Nandini Bajaj, Head Girl, expresses her pride,“It is an honor to celebrate 50 glorious years of our esteemed college, a milestone that reflects the vision and dedication of our founder. As the Head Girl, I feel immense pride in being part of this legacy and witnessing the institution’s growth and success. This celebration is not just about the past but also a promise to uphold its values for the future.”

Shivansh Dua, Head Boy, echoes his sentiments,“Being part of the preparations as the Head Boy has been an incredible experience, filled with dedication and excitement. This milestone reflects our institution’s legacy, and I am honored to contribute to this grand celebration.”

A Call to Celebrate and Participate

The 6th Rajeshwari Kala Mahotsav promises to be an unforgettable celebration of India’s artistic heritage. With workshops led by award-winning artists, an inter-state craft mela, mesmerizing music and dance competitions, and a charity art sale, the festival offers something for everyone – artists, students, and art lovers alike.

Join us at ACFA, Jalandhar, from April 2 – April 5, 2025, and be part of a historic moment where art meets legacy!