Kamala Nehru College Commences Ullas 2026 Cultural Festival with Heritage Theme
Kamala Nehru College, a constituent college of the University of Delhi, officially inaugurated its annual cultural festival, Ullas 2026, on April 9. This vibrant two-day event was meticulously organized around the compelling theme “Dharohar – The Heritage,” which celebrated womanhood as a dynamic and living embodiment of culture, tradition, and legacy. The festival aimed to bridge the past with the present, fostering a deep appreciation for cultural roots among the student community.
Inaugural Ceremony and Keynote Addresses
The festival opened with an inaugural ceremony that featured Vrinda Khana, National Secretary of the Sant Eshwer Foundation and Director of Pragyan Impact Solutions, as the Chief Guest. In her keynote address, Khana emphasized the critical importance of staying connected to one's heritage in an increasingly globalized world. She eloquently stated, “The world is embracing your heritage; it is time you do the same.” Her words resonated with the audience, setting a thoughtful tone for the event.
Prof. (Dr.) Pavitra Bhardwaj, the principal of Kamala Nehru College, described the festival's theme as both timely and profoundly meaningful. She highlighted that heritage is not merely about the past but serves as a foundation for identity and continuity. Dr. Bhardwaj remarked, “Students should take pride in their roots while embracing progress.” She further elaborated that true confidence stems from self-acceptance rather than imitation, encouraging students to honor their cultural backgrounds.
Cultural Performances and Student-Led Initiatives
The campus was transformed into a lively cultural space, adorned with exquisite décor curated by ‘Luminoso’, the Fine Arts Society. This included handmade artwork by students, warm lighting, and traditional paper lamps, creating an inviting atmosphere. A diverse array of stalls, ranging from food and beverage counters to crochet, jewellery, clothing, and other creative exhibits, became bustling hubs of interaction and engagement. These stalls were entirely driven by student-led initiatives, showcasing entrepreneurial spirit and creativity.
A standout moment of the ceremony was the presentation of the annual stage production ‘Avasana’ by ‘Lakshya’, the Theatre Society of the college. This engaging performance was inspired by Yakshagana, a traditional theatre form from Karnataka, adding a rich cultural layer to the festival. The fest also witnessed a wide range of cultural performances and inter-college competitions organized by various student societies.
Inter-College Participation and Traditional Showcases
Students from several prestigious colleges, including Kirori Mal College (KMC), Hindu College, Gargi College, Lady Shri Ram College for Women (LSR), and Miranda House, participated enthusiastically in the competitions. Their involvement contributed significantly to the vibrancy and strong sense of community at the event, with many winning prizes in various categories.
Among the highlights were performances by ‘Dev Bhoomi’, the Uttarakhand Society, which presented the traditional ‘Jagar’ folk dance on the college grounds. Simultaneously, ‘Orchid’, the North-East Society, showcased the rich cultural diversity of the region through its dynamic performances, emphasizing the festival's inclusive spirit.
Musical Performances and Festival Conclusion
A standout feature on the second day was the performance by the ‘Sapera Been Party’, a renowned traditional musical troupe dedicated to preserving and presenting the folk heritage of Haryana. Playing the traditional ‘been’, their performance, rooted in indigenous rhythms and melodies, offered a unique cultural experience that resonated deeply with the festival's theme.
The fest featured live performances across both days, including a set by singer Rajat Rathor on the first day, who invited a student on stage to sing, drawing an enthusiastic response from the audience. The second day concluded with a high-energy performance by DJ Kashish Rathore, whose electrifying set energized the crowd, bringing the celebrations to a vibrant and memorable close.
Reflections on Community and Heritage
Rajeshwari Shelke, Student Union President, noted that Ullas 2026 successfully brought together diverse talents and ideas, fostering a strong sense of community while celebrating creativity and cultural heritage. She emphasized that the festival was more than just a celebration; it highlighted how relevant and meaningful heritage continues to be in contemporary society. By placing womanhood at its core, Ullas 2026 created a space that honored tradition while allowing students to engage with it in their own unique ways, promoting both cultural pride and progressive thinking.
