Youthful energy takes centre stage at agri varsity festival

The annual Inter-College Youth Festival of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, commenced on Saturday with a celebration of talent, creativity and youthful energy. The 10-day festival, being held from November 8 to 17, will showcase the artistic brilliance of university students through a series of cultural, literary, fine arts and heritage events.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony, chief guest Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor, PAU, emphasised the vital role played by co-curricular activities in shaping the overall personality of students. “Such events give youth the opportunity to express themselves, nurture leadership and balance intellect with creativity. The PAU has not only produced world-class agricultural scientists but also internationally recognised artists and sportspersons,” he said.

Dr Nirmal Jaura, Director Students’ Welfare, shared that the festival features competitions in music, theatre, fine arts, folk dance, literature and heritage arts. “Even though our students study science, they have excelled internationally in literature and culture—a reflection of their multidimensional learning,” he added.

Dr Rupinder Kaur, Associate Director (Culture), while sharing results of the shabad gayan competition, said over 50 competitions would be organised during the festival.

Dr Vishal Bector, president, university dance, drama and music club, highlighted that youth festivals not only hone creative skills but also instill discipline and teamwork.

The inaugural day witnessed enthusiastic participation in shabad gayan (solo and group), poster-making, collage-making, clay modelling, doodling, poem recitation and has-rass competitions.