St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru celebrated its Ethnic Day, named ‘ADVAYA: Elixir of India’, on 19 August 2023. The event aimed to showcase and celebrate the rich diversity of India by bringing together various outlooks, lifestyles, and traditions that reflect the country’s ethnicity.

The event began with a prayer, setting a spiritual tone for the festivities. The symbolic lighting of the lamp marked the inauguration of the event. The lamp was lit by Sr Dr M. Vennisa A.C. the Principal, Sr M. Carmel Rita A.C. the Administrator, Mrs Malvika Shetty the Student Council Coordinator & Head of the Department of Computer Applications, and Ms Shainy Manisha Pinto the Student President.

During her address to the students, the Principal emphasized the importance of nurturing love and respect for one’s own culture and history, encouraging a sense of pride in their heritage.

The program included various performances and activities. The Student Council members showcased their talents through a dance performance, highlighting their enthusiasm and unity. Faculty members took part in a fashion show, showcasing the diversity of traditional attire across different regions of India. Post Graduate students presented a dance mashup, adding a contemporary twist to traditional dance forms.

One of the highlights of the day was a variety competition centered around the theme ‘States of India’. Students creatively depicted the traditions and cultures of states such as Manipur, Punjab, Maharashtra, Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. The NCC (National Cadet Corps) cadets also contributed with a special performance.

As the event came to a close, Hafsa Anwar delivered a vote of thanks, acknowledging everyone who contributed to making the event a success. The student emcees, Malvika and Manasa, brought the event to a conclusion and set the stage for the highly anticipated mass dance.

The celebration of ‘ADVAYA: Elixir of India’ successfully captured the essence of unity in diversity, showcasing the beauty and vibrancy of India’s varied cultural heritage.