KATHUA, Nov 5: Government Degree College (GDC), Kathua, celebrated a vibrant and colourful Diwali Mela on Thursday with great enthusiasm and festive spirit.
The event witnessed the participation of more than 500 students, who came together to celebrate the festival of lights through creativity, entrepreneurship, cultural performances and joyful interaction.
The Mela commenced with the ribbon-cutting ceremony by the worthy Principal, Prof. Dr. Manohar Lal, followed by the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.
Thereafter, the Principal, accompanied by the Head of the Department of Home Science, Prof. Neelam Bhagat, senior faculty members and other staff members, visited the various stalls set up across the department.
The stalls showcased an impressive range of handmade products prepared by students, reflecting their creativity, artistic skills and entrepreneurial spirit. These included embroidered and hand-painted items, decorative diyas, colourful lanterns, torans, tie-and-dye dupattas and several other handcrafted articles. The displays highlighted the students’ ability to transform their creative ideas into attractive products.
Adding to the festive excitement were several food and game stalls, along with a gratitude wall and a selfie corner organised by the students of the Department of Psychology. Stalls featuring Aari work, crochet products, suits and perfumes, set up by outside participants, further enriched the variety and appeal of the mela.
A major attraction of the event was the lively cultural segment featuring live music performances, including songs, dance performances, shayari and songs on demand. The atmosphere became especially energetic as students enthusiastically danced to a variety of Punjabi, Dogri and Himachali songs. Their spirited participation, cheerful expressions and spontaneous celebrations filled the campus with colour, music and festive vibrancy.
Addressing the gathering, Principal Prof. Dr. Manohar Lal appreciated the efforts of the Department of Home Science and the students for organising such a meaningful and engaging event. He commended the students for their creativity, teamwork and active involvement and encouraged them to continue participating in activities that nurture practical skills, confidence, innovation and entrepreneurial abilities. He also appreciated the collective efforts of the faculty and staff members in making the celebration a success.
The event was organised by the faculty members of the Department of Home Science, Prof. Anamika Brau and Prof. Neelima Gupta and Prof. Mamta Khajuria under the guidance and leadership of Head of the Department, Prof. Neelam Bhagat. Senior faculty members Prof. Shalini Sharma,Prof. Neeraj Sharma ,Prof. Rakesh Jasrotia,Prof. Jagdish Lal, Prof. Sandeep Chaudhary, Prof. Shivani Kotwal, Prof. Ram Singh, Prof. Yash Pal, Prof. Sandeep Sharma and along with other staff members, graced the occasion and enjoyed the festive celebrations.
The Diwali Mela served as a wonderful platform for students to showcase their talents, explore creative expression and gain practical exposure to stall management, product presentation and entrepreneurship. More importantly, it fostered a spirit of togetherness, collaboration and cultural celebration among students and staff.
The campus wore a festive look throughout the event, and the vibrant atmosphere, enthusiastic participation and joyful celebrations made the Diwali Mela a memorable occasion for everyone present.