DU festival kickstarts amid much fanfare

But gets lukewarm response on 1st day of Antardhvani

Delhi University’s three-day festival ‘Antardhvani’ kickstarted on Friday with minister of communications and information technology Kapil Sibal inaugurating the event, which was telecast live.

“The first day had a range of extra curricular activities, which were started with the National Cadet Corps parade. There was a flower show like last year. We have tried to bring many varieties this year,” a DU official said.

“DU Haat, a science plaza, which has innovation projects by students, was open to all. School students came and took part in on the spot painting competition.”

Post noon, the festival was open for all. “The idea is to give a glimpse of higher education to parents and school students. There were inquiry counters to clear all confusions for the soon to be implemented four-year-graduation course,” added the official.

Last year it could not pull many students. Despite more initiatives involved this year, the first day witnessed a luke warm response from DU students.

“We are expecting more students in the next two days. There is a range of cultural events and activities organised for them,” said an official.

International food plaza is also a new addition which will have food and souvenir items from 20 different countries.

“DU has more than 1,500 international students. The Plaza will introduce culture and traditions of more than 20 countries such as Afghanistan, Armenia, China, Cambodia, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Indonesia, Iran, Mauritius, Mongolia, Nepal, Nigeria, Russia, Sri Lanka, South Korea, Thailand, and Tibet,” the official added.

“There will be performances by students of several countries also.” The classes were suspended for three days till Sunday. Prizes like laptops,mobile phones, and educational trips have been announced for winners.

 “Prizes are required to attract students. Then there is an award for good practise for colleges. First, second and third prizes of Rs 10 lakh, Rs 7 lakh and Rs 5 lakh respectively and up to three commendation prizes of Rs 1 lakh will be given to colleges,” the official said.