Teeyan da Mela’ brings alive spirit of Punjabiat at Khalsa College

The corridors of Khalsa College for Women, Civil Lines, here came alive with the vibrant hues of tradition, laughter and rhythmic beats as the institution celebrated “Teeyan da Mela: Raunak Dheeyan di”.

Organised by the Postgraduate Department of Punjabi, the event was a heartfelt tribute to Punjab’s rich cultural heritage and the joyous spirit of Teej. From the moment one stepped on the campus, the air was thick with nostalgia and celebration. Decorated ‘charkhas’, ‘pakhis’ and heritage handicrafts adorned the college grounds, offering a visual feast of Punjabiyat. Traditional utensils, ‘bagh’, ‘hulkari’, ‘darian’, ‘sandhookh’ and ornate jewellery stalls recreated the essence of a bygone era, reminding everyone of the timeless beauty of Punjabi craftsmanship.

Students immersed themselves in the festivities through competitions that celebrated folk art and rural creativity — ‘phulkari’ embroidery, mehndi designs, ‘mitti de khidone’, tokri making, ‘khido’ and ‘gudian patole’ were just a few of the many expressions of cultural pride on display.

The celebration was further elevated by the presence of renowned artists. Singing sensation Inder Waraich captivated the audience with his energetic performance, while Navjot Singh Mandair and his group mesmerised everyone with soulful Teej songs accompanied by traditional instruments like ‘sarangi’, ‘dotara’, ‘algoja’ and ‘dhad’. Their music didn’t just entertain — it transported listeners to the heart of Punjab’s folk traditions.

College students added their own sparkle to the day with spirited performances of giddha and skits that reflected the joy and resilience of Punjabi women. The campus transformed into a festive fairground, with stunning stalls offering bangles, ornaments, cosmetics and traditional attire. The aroma of ‘mal poorhe’, ‘kheer’, ‘jalebis’ and ‘pakoras’ filled the air, while the tonga rides and swings brought out the child in every visitor.

Fun sports like ‘kikli’, rope skipping, ‘kokla chapaki’, ‘geete khedna’, and ‘shatapu’ added playful energy to the celebrations. Arshdeep Kaur (MA-I Punjabi) was crowned ‘Gidhiyan di Rani’, while Kulvir Kaur (MA-II Punjabi) won the title of Ms Teej, embodying grace and spirit of the festival.

Principal Kamaljit Grewal said, “This celebration is more than an event — it’s a living classroom of culture, memory and pride,” encouraging everyone to continue nurturing Punjabiyat in everyday life.

As the sun dipped and the music lingered, ‘Teeyan da Mela’ left behind more than memories — it rekindled a collective sense of belonging, reminding Ludhiana that tradition, when celebrated with heart, becomes timeless.