The historic campus of Bhatkhande Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya in Lucknow was buzzing with energy and pride on the second day of its three-day centenary celebrations this Friday. Despite the biting cold of a winter afternoon, the university grounds were packed with enthusiastic students, proud alumni, and devoted fans of Indian classical music, all coming together to mark a significant milestone.
A Campus Alive with Nostalgia and Celebration
Braving the chilly winds, students wrapped in thick jackets and trench coats over sarees filled the pathways, chatting animatedly and capturing memories with countless selfies. The air was thick with excitement as visitors explored the sprawling campus, admiring its architecture and a special photo exhibition that chronicled the illustrious 100-year journey of Bhatkhande and its distinguished alumni.
The exhibition served as a powerful reminder of the university's legacy. For many, like alumna Manjula Pandey who studied there in 1990, it was a walk down memory lane. "I am also an alumna of the university," she shared while taking a selfie with her sister. "After my time here, I could not pursue my dream of becoming a vocalist. Today, I'm immensely happy to see girls listening to their hearts and rising in life."
Voices of Pride from Students and Faculty
The sense of pride was palpable among the current student body as well. Student Tanya Upadhyay expressed her joy while posing with a centenary celebration poster, stating, "It is a very proud moment for us that we are witnessing our university completing 100 years." This sentiment was echoed by the faculty, for whom the event was deeply personal.
Gyanendra Dutt Bajpai, a faculty member, reflected on the occasion, calling it "very nostalgic and a proud moment for us. We are lucky to be a part of this celebration." The event was not just for the university community but also attracted music aficionados from the city. Ankush Mehra, a visitor, said, "I'm a big fan of classical music, especially thumris and dadra. Today, I took off from work specifically to come and see renowned artists perform."
Evening Melodies and Shared Dreams
As the day progressed into evening, the celebrations continued with performances by renowned artists. Students and their families were seen enjoying hot tea and coffee, discussing the captivating performances. For some, the event was a chance to share a missed dream with the next generation.
Student Riddhi Singh, who brought her parents to experience the centenary, highlighted a touching story. "My mother plays the tabla excellently," she revealed, "but she could never pursue a career in it as she was burdened with family responsibilities. Today, she thoroughly enjoyed all the performances." This narrative underscored the university's role in nurturing artistic dreams across generations.
The second day of the centenary celebrations successfully wove together threads of past glory, present joy, and future inspiration, solidifying Bhatkhande Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya's enduring place in India's cultural and educational landscape.
