Banaras Hindu University Marks 77th Republic Day with Grand Celebrations and Awards
The 77th Republic Day was celebrated with immense enthusiasm and patriotic spirit at Banaras Hindu University in Varanasi. Students, teachers, and staff members gathered to renew their commitment to the nation's service during the vibrant festivities.
Flag Hoisting and Leadership Address
Vice-Chancellor Prof Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi led the celebrations by unfurling the national flag at the Amphitheatre Ground. In his address, he emphasized that Republic Day is a celebration of national pride, unity, and sovereignty, greeting all attendees with a message of collective responsibility.
Recognition of Excellence
The event included a special felicitation ceremony where outstanding students and staff members were honored for their achievements. Notable awardees included:
- Akanksha Jaiswal, faculty of ayurveda, who received the President Dr Shankar Dayal Sharma Gold Medal.
- Omkar Pandey, faculty of Sanskrit Vidya Dharma Vijnan, awarded the Mahamana Sanskrit Award.
- Vatsalya Yadav from DAV PG College, honored with the Major S L Dar Gold Medal.
- Saurabh Shukla from the Army Wing, 3 UP Armed, NCC, who received the Major S L Dar Silver Medal.
Cultural and Parade Highlights
Cultural performances were presented by students from Central Hindu Girls School, Ranveer Sanskrit Vidyalaya, and Central Hindu Boys School, adding a creative touch to the celebrations. The Vice-Chancellor reviewed an impressive parade by NCC cadets, which showcased exemplary discipline, systematic coordination, and precision through a march past.
Commemorative Tributes and University-Wide Events
The day began with floral tributes to BHU founder Mahamana Pt Madan Mohan Malaviya at Malaviya Bhawan. Flag hoisting ceremonies were also conducted at the International Centre and Central Registry, where registrar Prof Arun Kumar Singh unfurled the national flag. Across various institutes and faculties, students and teachers participated in similar events, fostering a sense of unity.
Community and Government Participation
In Varanasi, divisional commissioner S Rajalingam hoisted the flag at the camp office and commissionerate, while district magistrate Satyendra Kumar led ceremonies at the Rifle Club at Collectorate and camp office, concluding with the singing of the national anthem. Officers and employees from various departments, along with distinguished citizens, attended these programs, where officers administered the oath of the Preamble of the Constitution to everyone present.
Railway Sector Celebrations
At the NER Stadium in Lahartara, DRM North Eastern Railway Ashish Jain hoisted the flag and took the salute of a parade presented by RPF personnel, Chorus Commandos, members of NER North Eastern Railway Bharat Scouts and Guides, and students of North Eastern Railway schools, highlighting the widespread participation in the Republic Day observances.