Tricolour Soars High at Apeejay College of Fine Arts, Jalandhar

Apeejay College of Fine Arts, Jalandhar, marked India’s 80th Independence Day with profound reverence and patriotic fervour, bringing together a solemn flag-hoisting ceremony and a vibrant cultural initiative under the theme ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’. Organised by the college’s NSS Wing, the celebrations sought to honour the nation’s journey since Independence while sensitising students towards their rights, duties and responsibilities as citizens.

The celebrations commenced with the hoisting of the Tricolour at the college campus, evoking a deep sense of pride and reverence for Bharat Mata. Addressing the gathering, Principal Dr. Neerja Dhingra highlighted the opportunities available to today’s younger generation, noting that access to advanced technology and modern facilities places them in a strong position to contribute significantly to the nation’s development.

Reflecting on India’s progress over the past 80 years, Dr. Dhingra expressed confidence that determination, commitment and collective effort by the youth can accelerate the country’s growth and take it to greater heights. She further expressed the belief that the vision of a developed India can be realised within the next 25 years through the dedicated efforts of the younger generation.

She emphasised that Independence Day celebrations should go beyond commemorating freedom and should also encourage students to understand their responsibilities towards the nation. She 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.”

Furthering this objective, the NSS Wing organised the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ competition to introduce students to India’s diverse cultural heritage. The initiative explored the traditional attire, jewellery, festivals, cuisine and cultural practices of various states and regions, including Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Kashmir, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Haryana and Gujarat.

Each participating team comprised three students—one mentor and two mentees—who represented an assigned state or region in traditional attire and jewellery. The judges—Mr. Rajesh Kalsi, Department of Design; Dr. Navjot Deol, Department of English; and Dr. Vishav Bandhu Verma, Department of History—interacted with the participants and tested their knowledge through questions related to the environment, culture, festivals, traditions and food habits of their respective regions.

The Maharashtra team, comprising Mentor Durvish Khanna and Mentees Lakshmi and Krishna, secured the first position. The second position was jointly bagged by the Gujarat team—Mentor Sahil and Mentees Niharika and Pratham—and the Tamil Nadu team—Mentor Kanika and Mentees Nonika and Vishnu. The Rajasthan team, comprising Mentor Mannat Kochar and Mentees Dilpreet and Nishant, secured third position.

Adding another dimension to the celebration, Ms. Kreetina Rai, Department of English, spoke on ‘Freedom of Language’ and stressed the importance of exercising freedom of expression with sensitivity and responsibility. She reminded students that words cannot be taken back once spoken and that freedom of speech should not be interpreted as unrestricted expression. She encouraged students to communicate thoughtfully and ensure that their words do not hurt or offend others.

The programme also featured a spirited dance performance by Lovisha, a first-year B.A. student, which infused the gathering with patriotic energy. Ms. Chetna and Ms. Sanjeevani Bhalla added vibrancy to the event through their excellent anchoring.

Dr. Dhingra appreciated the dedicated efforts of Dr. Simkee Dev, Dean, NSS Wing, and Dr. Monika Anand, Dean, Functions, for successfully organising the celebrations.

The combined celebrations became a meaningful reflection of India’s unity in diversity, connecting students with the country’s rich heritage while inspiring them to embrace responsible citizenship and contribute towards building a strong, self-reliant and progressive India.