Stella Maris College Celebrates its 77th Foundation Day with the anniversary of Indian Independence
*Annual College Magazine released observing the G20 theme
* Culture and Heritage Day celebrated as a prelude to our Independence Day Celebrations
As India celebrates Independence Day, this historic date also concludes 76 years of our existence with free India. The trajectory of our evolution and growth runs parallel with that of the nation and we find ourselves in a rapidly changing and evolving interconnected global environment that impacts every aspect of our daily lives. This date is also a testament of our vision – to giving our country, women devoted to academic excellence, all-round development and service.
On this special occasion, our chief guest, Tmt. Uma Maheswari IAS, Secretary, Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission hoisted the national flag and, in her address, stated that hoisting of the flag symbolises the memorialisation of our country’s freedom fighters. She recalled the role of women during India’s freedom moment especially women from Tamil Nadu and urged the students to do well in their respective fields.
Dr. Sr. Stella Mary fmm, Principal i/c, Stella Maris College during her address spoke about having hope in our youth to change the world to make a better place for every being on planet earth. She stated, “You, our future leaders, have the potential to transform the social reality which continues to reflect marginalisation, oppression, and exclusion, to one that reflects inclusion, equity and unlimited opportunity for positive change for all sections of society. With the aid of technology and your limitless creativity, you can find innovative solutions to problems that beset society, and build a world where everyone is included and “no one is left behind”.
Addressing on our landmark occasion, our special guest, Prof. Ashok Jhunjhunwalla, President, IITM Research Park & Incubation Cell, recalled Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of non-violence and his efforts to free India from British Raj. He added that we were born in the land of the Mahatma and we should keep him alive in our mind as we build our nation. Drawing inspiration from our history, where every individual was united for a free India, Prof Jhunjhunwalla requested the youth to rebuild earth as we were witnessing climate change, communal issues and decline in moral values.
A documentary video on the concept “My India, My Pride” was also released in which our students representing different states, cultures and languages spoke on their opinion about freedom – what it meant to them and the pride that they had about being an Indian.
As a prelude to our Independence Day celebrations, the Students’ Union organised Culture and Heritage Day on 11 August 2023 to celebrate our rich culture, ethnicity and diversity. Students wore traditional attire from various states or ethnic groups and participated in contests including group dances, traditional art presentations, haiku writing, an ethnic walk, and more. During break time, the celebration continued with captivating performances of folk arts such as parai and silambam by students.
Dr. Sr. Stella Mary fmm released the annual College Magazine and the first copy was handed over to Tmt. Uma Maheswari. The thematic framework was the G20 summit and its relevance.
The celebrations culminated with a cultural programme on the theme of India’s G20 Presidency – “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ or ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’ followed by a cake cutting ceremony.
Website: http://stellamariscollege.edu.in/
