The third day of the youth festival at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) transformed into a vibrant celebration of Punjabi linguistic heritage and traditional craftsmanship, taking participants on a nostalgic journey to the state's rural heartland.
Muhavredar Vartalap: Preserving Linguistic Heritage
The 'Muhavredar vartalap' competition became the centerpiece of the event, showcasing the rich tapestry of Punjabi idioms that once dominated everyday conversations in rural households. Participants demonstrated remarkable fluency in using traditional expressions, with most discussions naturally gravitating toward the recent floods that devastated Punjab and the resilient spirit of Punjabi youth in overcoming this natural calamity.
Dr. CS Aulakh, Dean of the College of Agriculture and chief guest for the morning session, expressed admiration for the youth's deep connection with their cultural roots. "The unique mix of old and new as well as past and present must go hand-in-hand," he remarked, acknowledging the organizers' consistent efforts in helping young people reconnect with their heritage.
Traditional Crafts Come Alive
The festival grounds buzzed with creative energy as students immersed themselves in various traditional art forms that defined Punjab's rural lifestyle. The activities included:
- 'Enu' making - demonstrating traditional techniques
- 'Naley' crafting - showcasing precision and skill
- 'Mitti de khidoney' creation - working with natural materials
- 'Chikku' and 'piddi' making - preserving ancestral methods
- Crochet kavishri - blending threadwork with artistic expression
Students displayed laser-sharp focus and innovation while recreating traditional designs using vibrant colored threads, effectively transporting observers to an era when rural communities bonded over shared craftsmanship during their leisure time.
Leadership Applauds Cultural Renaissance
Dr. Kiran Bains, presiding over the event as Dean of both the College of Community Sciences and College of Basic Sciences and Humanities, praised the spectacular exhibition of cultural diversity. She emphasized how such events promote personality development and foster mutual harmony among the youth.
The evening session featured Dr. GS Sandhu, Principal of SCD Government College for Boys in Ludhiana, as chief guest. He urged young participants to channel their energies productively and maintain distance from harmful vices that could derail their potential.
Vice Chancellor Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal expressed genuine appreciation for the students' aesthetic sensibilities displayed throughout the cultural competitions. "It is a golden opportunity for the youths to unlock their hidden talent, deliver their best in a vast array of events and win accolades, adding to the list of their brilliant academic career," he observed, highlighting the festival's role in holistic development.
The event successfully bridged generations, demonstrating that Punjab's rich cultural legacy remains vibrant and relevant through the enthusiastic participation of its youth.
