The hallowed halls of Maharaja's College in Kochi recently witnessed a remarkable confluence of past and present. As part of the institution's grand sesquicentennial celebrations—marking its 150th year—the Malayalam department orchestrated a deeply nostalgic alumni reunion this Sunday. This event transformed into a rare tapestry, weaving together multiple generations of graduates who once walked the same corridors.
A Walk Down Memory Lane
The gathering was uniquely enriched by the participation of former students spanning decades. The audience comprised everyone from the most senior alumni to the freshest batch that graduated in the last academic year. The air was thick with shared history and rekindled friendships as stories from a bygone era filled the room.
One of the most poignant moments came from Muraleedharan, an alumnus from the 1958-61 batch. Overcome with emotion, he reminisced about his vibrant college life and the cherished friendships he forged with individuals who would later become notable public figures. He fondly recalled his time with contemporaries like A K Antony, Vayalar Ravi, and T V R Shenoy, effectively transporting everyone present back to those formative years.
Blessings from Beloved Mentors
The reunion's sentimental value was further amplified by the gracious presence of retired faculty members. Former teachers arrived specifically to meet their erstwhile students, offering blessings and sharing in the joy of the milestone. The event was honored by educators like Dhanalakshmi, Babuji, Margaret George, P Ramadevi, Silvikutty Joseph, and S Joseph.
Their attendance added a profound layer of nostalgia, bridging the gap between teacher and student across the years. Their presence served as a living testament to the enduring bonds and lasting impact of the college's academic community.
A Celebration of Enduring Legacy
This alumni meet was more than just a social gathering; it was a vibrant celebration of Maharaja's College's 150-year legacy. It underscored the institution's role not just as an educational center but as a cradle for lifelong relationships and societal contributors. The seamless interaction between the oldest and newest graduates highlighted a continuous thread of tradition, learning, and camaraderie that defines the college's spirit.
The event, steeped in emotion and shared history, successfully captured the essence of the sesquicentennial celebrations. It reaffirmed the college's place in the hearts of its alumni and its significant role in shaping personalities and careers over a century and a half in Kochi.
