The vibrant Youth Festival at Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU) in Ludhiana has become a powerful stage for social commentary. Students from various colleges transformed contemporary concerns into compelling theatrical performances, blending artistic expression with urgent messages for society.
Art Meets Activism on Stage
The festival's schedule featured energetic competitions in Mime and Skit, where participants creatively portrayed a range of socio-political and environmental issues. This segment of the event highlighted how young minds are engaging with the world around them through the medium of performance art.
Dr Nirmal Jaura, the Director of Students' Welfare at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), attended the morning session as the guest of honour, lending significance to the proceedings. The university's Vice-Chancellor, Dr JPS Gill, commended the participants for their efforts. He stated that the theatre events reflect the creativity and social consciousness of the student community, adding that such platforms are crucial for building confidence, sensitivity, and leadership qualities among the youth.
Leadership Applauds Depth and Professionalism
Dr Rabinder Singh Aulakh, Director of Students' Welfare at GADVASU, praised the high standard of the presentations. He described the performances as a "true mirror of life and society" and expressed his confidence that the participating young artists would excel not just in inter-university competitions but also in navigating broader life challenges.
The evening session saw the presence of Dr Gursharn Jit Singh Sandhu, Principal of SCD Government College for Boys, Ludhiana. He took time to appreciate the stalls showcasing value-added products prepared by different colleges, commending the creativity and quality on display.
Enthusiastic Participation and Winners
The festival witnessed enthusiastic involvement from students across multiple constituent and affiliated colleges. The participating institutions included:
- College of Veterinary Science, Ludhiana
- College of Dairy and Food Science Technology
- College of Fisheries
- College of Animal Biotechnology
- Veterinary Science College, Rampura Phul
- Veterinary Polytechnic, Kaljharani
- Khalsa College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Amritsar
Dr SPS Ghuman, the Organizing Secretary, announced the results of the various competitions. The winners were:
In Mime: The top positions were secured by the College of Dairy and Food Science Technology, followed by the College of Veterinary Science Ludhiana, and Veterinary Polytechnic Kaljharani.
In Skit: The winning teams were from Veterinary Science Ludhiana, Kaljharani, and Rampura Phul.
Ramp Walk in Punjabi Attire: The team from Rampura Phul and individual winner Natasha from Ludhiana took the honours.
Light Vocal Music: Winners included Ankesh (Veterinary Science Ludhiana), Suneha Mandal (College of Fisheries), and Tanisq Bhagat (Rampura Phul).
Group Song (Indian): First positions were awarded to the College of Fisheries, Khalsa College Amritsar, and Veterinary Science Ludhiana.
A Platform for Holistic Development
The GADVASU Youth Festival continues to solidify its role as a dynamic platform for students to showcase their talent and creativity. More importantly, it reinforces the significance of cultural activities in shaping well-rounded individuals. By addressing social issues head-on, the festival fosters a sense of responsibility, leadership, and empathy among the participating youth, proving that education extends far beyond the academic curriculum.
