SHILLONG, April 4: The grand inauguration of ‘Shishir 2024’, a cultural festival at National Institute of Technology (NIT) Meghalaya commenced with a ceremonial welcome extended to a distinguished panel of dignitaries, each representing a significant facet of education, arts, and culture.
The esteemed guests included Secretary of Education, Ambrose Ch. Marak, Indian Film Director, Jahnu Baruah,president of Shillong Press Club, David O Laitphlang, Director (I/C) of NIT Meghalaya, Prof Ayon Bhattacharjee, Dean of Student’s Welfare (I/C) at NIT Meghalaya, Prof Diptendu Sinha Roy, president of the Student Activity Centre (SAC) at NIT Meghalaya, Dr Atanu Singha Roy, and vice-president of the SAC at NIT Meghalaya, Dr Susmita Sharma.
This set the stage for a day filled with cultural richness and artistic fervour.
The multi-event festival being held at NIT’s temporary campus in Bijni Complex, Laitumkhrah, will conclude on April 6.
The proceedings began with a soul-stirring performance by the institute’s choir, welcoming the dignitaries and guests with a melodic rendition that echoed the spirit of unity and celebration. This was followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp.
David O Laitphlang, president of Shillong Press Club, expressed gratitude towards the institute and gave his best wishes towards making the institute’s cultural festival a successful one while emphasising the importance of culture.
As the atmosphere brimmed with anticipation, Jahnu Baruah took the stage to deliver a compelling speech on the promotion of the North East region’s culture and diversity.
Drawing from his experience as a film director, he shed light on the intricacies of the industry and emphasised the importance of resilience and perseverance in the pursuit of creative endeavours.
Following Baruah’s inspiring address, the chief guest, Ambrose Ch Marak, Secretary of Education, enlightened the enthusiastic gathering of students and guests on the progress and advancement of education and innovation in Meghalaya.
He highlighted the vibrant and diverse culture of the state, encouraging students to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success and explore opportunities for societal impact, such as the UPSC examinations.
With the stage set and spirits high, Prof Ayon Bhattacharjee, Director (I/C) of NIT Meghalaya, officially declared the festival open, marking the beginning of a day filled with cultural revelry and artistic splendour. His declaration was met with enthusiastic applause and anticipation for the festivities to come.
NIT Meghalaya SAC vice president, Dr Susmita Sharma, expressed gratitude on behalf of the organising committee, extending heartfelt thanks to all participants, dignitaries, and attendees for their support and participation.
The overall coordination was overseen by senior faculty Dr Bunil Kumar Balabantaray, vice president (Technical), SAC.
The audience was also treated to a mesmerising display of multiple ethnic traditional dances, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Following the cultural dances, the much-anticipated Spic Macay event commenced, featuring the stellar performance of Rakesh Chaurasia, an acclaimed Indian Flutist and GRAMMY Award 2024 winner, accompanied by Pandit Anutosh Degharia, an esteemed Indian Tabla percussionist. Their rendition of classic Indian classical music transported the audience to a realm of musical bliss, leaving a lasting impression on all in attendance.
