Cultural event marks IIAS foundation day

A cultural event was organised at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS) to celebrate its 59th foundation day week. The programme began with tea welcome address by Professor JK Roy, Fellow at the IIAS. Following this, Professor Priyanka Vaidya introduced former Fellow and the event’s chief guest, Dr Usha Bande.

In her speech, Dr Bande shared her cherished memories of the institute with the gathering and extended her best wishes to those present on the occasion.

The cultural programme featured several musical performances, including a Raveendra Sangeet singing by Dr Trisha Paul and a solo song by Dr Joginder Saklani. Additionally, a play based on Saadat Hasan Manto’s renowned work “Toba Tek Singh” was performed by Dr Gajendra Bhardwaj and a group of his associates. Dr Hemant Pal Ghritlahare then presented a Chhattisgarhi folk song.

The event concluded with a presidential address by Secretary Mehar Chand Negi, who appreciated the active participation of fellows, associates and staff members. He emphasised the importance of such cultural events in fostering camaraderie and creativity within the institute.

The Indian Institute of Advanced Study will also organise a special blood donation camp at the Pool Theatre in collaboration with Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) Shimla’s blood bank.

On Sunday, the formal closing ceremony of the foundation day week will be presided over by the Director Prof Raghvendra Prasad Tiwari, followed by saplinge plantation on the institute’s premises.