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78th Independence Day Celebration

India’s 78th Independence Day was celebrated with patriotic fervour and pride. It was an opportunity to pay homage to the valour of our freedom fighters and renew our pledge to the ideals of freedom, unity and patriotism enshrined in the constitution. The event was graced by Mr Praveen Shetty, an Ex-Army officer, who was the Chief Guest for the occasion. He was accorded a ceremonial welcome this was followed by hoisting of the national flag on the college grounds.

The formal ceremony commenced with a warm welcome by Ms Venessa Lee, lecturer in Chemistry. The chief guest extended greetings on the auspicious occasion and spoke about the significance of the day, explaining how the freedom of our country was forged in the crucible of countless martyrs’ sacrifice. It is our bounden duty to honour this legacy and prevent its misuse. Unity thus becomes paramount, for internal strife is more deadly than external enemies. He also spoke on the need to wean the youth away from drugs and intoxification and instill in them a love for the motherland.

Alisha Fernandes skilfully compered the outdoor formal programme. In the auditorium a series of enthralling cultural performances were held. The event was anchored by Ayesha Bapunavar and Sanvi Kottary. The cultural program began with an electrifying welcome dance performed by Vibha and her group, setting the tone for the day. The audience was then treated to a slew of traditional dances, including the Suggi Dance, Coorgi Dance, Janapada Geethe, and the Manipuri Dance, unveiling the splendour and syncretic culture of India.

A special ramp walk depicting the various dance forms of India, highlighted the nation's cultural heritage. The compelling patriotic songs stirred emotions, reinforcing the spirit of nationalism among the audience. The event also featured a celebration dance that added lustre to the festive atmosphere.

An important part of the occasion was the oath-taking ceremony, where students committed themselves to the cause of a Drug-Free India, emphasising their dedication to social responsibility.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Teena D’Souza, lecturer in Commerce. The day was brought to a fitting close with a military-style dance finale, which stoked a deep sense of loyalty and patriotism towards the motherland. This was followed by the singing of the National Anthem.

The 78th Independence Day celebration at St Agnes PU College was a scintillating display of cultural unity and national pride, reminding everyone of the significance of our hard-won freedom and our responsibility to contribute to the nation’s unity and progress.

The whole programme was seamlessly brought together by Mrs Shobha, lecturer in Biology, Mrs Jayashree, Physical Director, and their team. The Principal Sr Norine D'Souza, Vice Principal Sr Janet Sequeira, faculty, students, PTA Vice-President Dr Divya Damodar and the PTA Joint Secretary Mrs Shahida Ashraf and other PTA Ex-committee members were present on the occasion.