Kejriwal, CM Mann open LPU’s ‘One India 2025’ fest

‘One India-2025’, the annual mega cultural fest, began at Lovely Professional University (LPU). The event was inaugurated by national convener of the Aam Aadmi Party Arvind Kejriwal and Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Dr Ashok Kumar Mittal, MP and founder chancellor of LPU, Col Dr Rashmi Mittal, Pro-Chancellor of LPU and Lovely Group Chairman Ramesh Mittal were also present.

This year’s edition, themed ‘Gatha-e-Bharat: Narratives of Monuments and History’, witnessed a breathtaking celebration of unity in diversity. The fest converted the campus into a “Mini-India”, where students representing 28 states and 8 UTs marched together in an impressive procession of tableaus, folk dances, and traditional performances, each reflecting the distinctive spirit of their region.

Kejriwal expressed his admiration for the fest, saying, “It feels like a grand festival of India is underway. The energy among the youth is incredible.” He highlighted India’s strength in diversity, noting, “One nation, many languages, cultures, philosophy - but one Hindustan. This diversity is our strength.”

Mann commended the LPU for its vivid portrayal of India’s diversity, stating, “From Tamil Nadu to Ladakh, Tripura to Odisha, and Haryana to Punjab, every performance reflected the beauty and unity of our nation. Initiatives like ‘One India’ nurture this spirit of togetherness and strengthen the vision of India as a Vishva Guru. Our youth are our greatest asset — if you channel your energy wisely, the nation’s future will be unstoppable.”

The university felicitated Paris Paralympic 2024 achievers with prize money of Rs 42 lakh for their outstanding performances. Awardees included Sumit (gold, javelin), Mona Aggarwal (bronze, shooting), Pooja Ojha (kayaking), Yash Kumar (kayaking), Sandeep (athletics), Sandip Sargar (athletics), and Rohit Kumar (athletics). Additionally, Alka Awasthi was honoured for her exceptional NSS services, having recently received an award from the President of India.