Navashakthi Celebration 2024: A Vibrant Display of Culture and Talent
Mangaluru, Oct. 18, 2024: The Navashakthi Celebration 2024, held at EXPERT PU College, Kodialbail, on Friday, was a grand showcase of talent, tradition, and the spirit of feminine divinity. Dr. Asha Jyothi Rai, Chairperson of Aasare Charitable Trust, who served as the chief guest, remarked, “We all belong to Prakruti and embody aspects of divine femininity. Navashakthi is a transformation of ourselves.”
The celebration began with a vibrant procession, led by Kannada HOD Karunakar Balkur, and included prominent guests like Dr. Asha Jyothi Rai, College Chairman Prof. Narendra L Nayak, Vice Chairperson Dr. Ushaprabha N Nayak, IT Director Ankush N Nayak, and Architect Deepika A Nayak, along with students. The procession, adorned with colorful umbrellas and the sound of the conch, set the festive tone. A traditional ritual marking the new harvest saw the guests pour rice grains into an urn, symbolizing abundance and prosperity.
The event honored the legacy of ‘Navanarishakthi,’ with distinguished guests lighting nine lamps, each representing the nine avatars of Goddess Parvathi. Among those lighting the lamps were Dr. Asha Jyothi, Dr. Ushaprabha N Nayak, Ms. Deepika A Nayak, and several faculty members, including Cultural Coordinator Ms. Sowmya KS, and English HOD Ms. Zita D’Souza.
In her keynote address, Dr. Ushaprabha N Nayak emphasized the strength of women, stating, “Respecting women should not be limited to Navratri; it is something we must uphold every day.”
Chairman Prof. Narendra L Nayak, quoting Purandaradas, highlighted the human journey, stating, “We were born as different creatures over 84 lakh years before attaining human form. Every individual possesses navarasas (nine emotions), and balancing them is key to becoming an extraordinary person.”
The highlight of the day was the Navashakthi Cultural Competitions, where students from Class XII enthralled the audience with their dramatic portrayal of Goddess Durga’s victory over evil through dance-drama. EX-Vogue, a glamorous ethnic fashion showcase, saw students impress with their style and elegance on the ramp.
The event concluded with a prize distribution ceremony to honor the winners of the competitions, followed by a grand lunch. Programme Director Ms. Sreevidya delivered the vote of thanks, bringing the memorable celebration to a close.