Media Release
Udupi, Apr 3: The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) was abuzz with excitement as Utsav 2024, the institution's much-anticipated annual cultural festivity, commenced on April 2 at KMC Greens.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by the presence of Vasanthi R Pai, trustee of the MAHE Trust, alongside a host of dignitaries including Dr H S Ballal, pro-chancellor, Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh, vice chancellor, Dr Geetha Maiya, director of Student Affairs, Dr Shobha Kamath, chairperson of the Cultural Coordination Committee (CCC), and Dr Sambit Dash, secretary of CCC MAHE.
The fest was inaugurated by Vasanthi R Pai, who, along with the dignitaries, lit the ceremonial lamp, marking the commencement of a five-day extravaganza. Dr H S Ballal, in his speech, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Cultural Coordination Committee (CCC) for organizing such a vibrant festival.
"I am profoundly grateful to the CCC for their unwavering dedication and effort in bringing together the diverse campuses under the Manipal banner. Utsav is not just a festival; it's a vibrant testament to our commitment to holistic development and cultural integration," Dr. Ballal remarked.
Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh also shared his admiration for Utsav, highlighting its significant impact on the university's cultural landscape. "Utsav has truly transcended to become a hallmark event, setting a benchmark for cultural excellence. It's a platform where talent, creativity, and cultural diversity converge, fostering a spirit of unity and collaboration among our students. I commend everyone involved in making Utsav a brand that symbolizes the spirit of MAHE," he stated.
Spanning five days, Utsav 2024 features forty enthralling events, engaging 2800 students and 405 faculty members across five campuses, including Dubai, Jamshedpur, Jaipur, Sikkim, and Bengaluru. The festival kicked off with pre-events like the staff Utsav cooking competition and variety entertainment, showcasing culinary skills and a plethora of talents. The festivity continued with a day filled with vibrant decorations at KMC Greens, offering a backdrop for competitions and performances. Competitions in painting, cartooning, debate, and extempore speaking showcased the intellectual and creative prowess of the participants. Music enthusiasts enjoyed soul-stirring instrumental and Eastern vocal solo performances, while the cultural parade and folk group dance celebrated the diversity and unity of the MAHE community.
Utsav 2024 stands as a testament to the talent, creativity, and cultural diversity of the MAHE student body, promising an unforgettable celebration of unity and artistic expression.