Cultural splendour marks penultimate day of PAU Inter-College Youth Festival

.

Ludhiana, Updated At : 04:28 AM Nov 21, 2024 IST

Students enact a play during the Inter-College Youth festival held at PAU in Ludhiana on Wednesday. PHOTO: ASHWANI DHIMAN

The penultimate day of the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) Inter-College Youth Festival 2024-25 witnessed state’s rich cultural heritage and artistic brilliance at Dr AS Khehra Open Air Theatre. Students, adorned in traditional finery, enthralled the audience with captivating performances. The morning events featured exuberant folk dances like Luddi and Jhumar showcasing Punjab’s energetic rhythms and vibrant traditions. Mime performances, a silent theatrical art form, conveyed powerful narratives on societal challenges, leaving the audience deeply moved.

The cultural celebrations continued in the evening events with performance by Bhand (Punjabi satire that humorously highlighted societal wrongs while calling for corrective action).

One-act plays sensitised the audience to pressing issues such as environmental conservation, mental health awareness and relationships, delivering impactful messages through compelling storytelling. Mono acting, which highlights individual performances, captivated with intense expressions, voice modulation and emotional depth entertained the audience.

While addressing participants, the chief guest on the occasion, Dhanpreet Kaur, Inspector General of Police, Ludhiana range, emphasised on the significance of such festivals in preserving Punjab’s heritage and inspiring creativity and discipline among students.

Students take part in group folk dances competition during the Inter-College Youth festival held at PAU in Ludhiana on Wednesday. PHOTO: ASHWANI DHIMAN

Drawing from her personal journey, she encouraged students to dream big and strive for excellence in all spheres. Commending spirited performances, she extended her best wishes to all competing teams. Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice Chancellor, PAU, presided over the event and lauded creativity, energy and cultural depth showcased by students.

The event was also graced by the presence of Muhammad Sadiq, a renowned folk singer and former Lok Sabha member, and Suman Lata, Principal, Government Girls College, Ludhiana, as special guests.

Sadiq highlighted the essence of India’s unity in diversity beautifully depicted through cultural extravaganzas at the festival. Suman Lata commended PAU for hosting such a vibrant celebration of talents and praised participants for their dedication and creativity.