Jamia Millia Islamia celebrated the 77th Republic Day of India with immense enthusiasm and patriotic fervor, resonating deeply with the theme of the 150th anniversary of the national song 'Vande Mataram'. The university community came together to honor this significant day in the nation's history.
Flag Hoisting Ceremony and Addresses
The celebrations commenced with a solemn flag hoisting ceremony at the forecourt of Dr. M.A. Ansari Auditorium. Prof. Mazhar Asif, Vice-Chancellor of JMI, and Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, Registrar of JMI, unfurled the National Flag, followed by the collective singing of the National Anthem. This moment marked the adoption of the Constitution of India in 1950, a pivotal event in the country's democratic journey.
Reflections on India's Freedom Struggle
In his address, Prof. Mahtab Alam Rizvi reflected on India's arduous freedom struggle, emphasizing the adoption of the resolution for attaining 'Poorna Swaraj' and the nation's liberation from British colonial rule. He highlighted the monumental effort behind drafting the Constitution under the chairmanship of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, noting that members of the Constituent Assembly deliberated clause by clause for two years, eleven months, and seventeen days to create one of the world's finest constitutions.
Constitutional Values and Democratic Ideals
Prof. Mazhar Asif, in his Presidential Address, paid homage to the architects of the Indian Constitution for their foresight and unwavering commitment to democratic ideals. He emphasized the constitutional values of unity, democracy, inclusiveness, and social justice, reiterating that Jamia Millia Islamia stands for "all and by all". This recognition extended to the collective contributions of the university's teaching, non-teaching, and administrative staff.
Prof. Asif underscored the significance of Republic Day as the day marking the adoption of the Constitution, urging students, teachers, and all fellow Indians to remember it with gratitude and reverence for the framers' hard work. He reminded the gathering that fundamental rights, ranging from equality and freedom to protection against exploitation, originate from the Constitution and collectively shape responsible citizens.
Honoring Constitutional Architects
Prof. Asif recalled the invaluable contributions of distinguished luminaries such as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, K.M. Munshi, Muhammad Sadulla, B.N. Rao, and S.M. Mukherjee, along with other jurists and freedom fighters who worked relentlessly to draft the Constitution. He further reminded attendees that India has no parallel when it comes to the values of multiculturalism, unity, diversity, sanskar, and sanskriti.
Patriotic Parade and Cultural Extravaganza
A grand parade by the NCC Cadets and the University Security Staff added to the patriotic spirit and solemnity of the occasion, showcasing discipline and national pride. The celebrations were further enriched by colorful cultural performances presented by students of Jamia schools and residents of University hostels. These performances beautifully showcased India's rich cultural diversity and composite heritage, adding vibrancy to the event.
Conclusion of the Celebrations
The programme concluded with the singing of the National Anthem, leaving participants with a renewed sense of patriotism and commitment to constitutional values. The event successfully blended solemn reflections with joyful celebrations, highlighting the university's dedication to fostering national unity and democratic principles.
