Celebrating a sense of belonging

Life at Jyoti Nivas College came to a halt on the morning before Independence Day to give way to the much-awaited celebrations.

As is the ritual every year, students put up a spirited cultural programme, which consisted of songs sung by the college choir, several dances performed by the Indian dance team called Advaitha and a skit by the drama club Bahuroopi.

The students also found the speeches delivered by the guests insightful. Chief guest Air Commodore C Rajeev, deputy director general of NCC Directorate Karnataka and Goa, centered his speech on the great heights that the younger generation is capable of reaching.

“We must not operate from a zone of fear. You must be bold and not afraid. Violence and discrimination should not stop you from pursuing your dreams,” he said.

Instead of merely reminding the audience of the diversity, beauty and magnificence inherent in India’s culture, the speakers focussed their speeches on the urgent need for change in the India’s functioning and the role that the younger generation has in creating a better nation.

This was also seen in the speech by Kalpana Gopalan, managing director, Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation and Karnataka Public Lands Corporation Ltd.

Principal Sr Elizabeth took everyone by surprise when she announced that the day coincided with the commemoration of the Sisters of St Joseph of Tarbes in the year 1843. She personally addressed the students by questioning them about what
freedom means to them and in what way they planned to use this freedom to work towards uprooting poverty and social evils present in our society.

“Do not take this day for granted. It is very important that you don’t become materialistic. Freedom has given you the liberty to live and let live. But what does it mean to you?” she asked.

The program was well received by the student body who attentively viewed it. In particular, many of them enjoyed the fusion of the various folk dances of different states of India.

“The best part of the programme was the cultural extravaganza. The finale with ‘Jai Ho’ was simply amazing. We could hardly sit on our seats while watching and just wanted to join in,” said Anju, a first-year BSc student.

Kavya, a participant from second-year BA, felt that it was enjoyable to perform.
“The response from the audience was overwhelming. It feels great to see that all our efforts paid off,” she smiled.