AMRITSAR: The three-day ‘B’ Zone Zonal Youth Festival of Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) concluded on a high note here today, setting the stage for the upcoming Inter-Zonal Youth Mela from November 7 to 9. Organised by the university’s Youth Welfare Department from November 2 to 4, the event showcased a vibrant display of cultural and literary talents by students from affiliated colleges.
In the A-Division, Swami Sarvanand Memorial College, Dinanagar, clinched the overall championship, while Shanti Devi Arya Mahila College, Dinanagar, secured the first runner-up position. Sri Guru Angad Dev College, Khadur Sahib, finished as second runner-up. In the B-Division, S.L. Bawa D.A.V. College, Batala, emerged as the overall winner. Sikh National College, Qadian (Gurdaspur), and Guru Arjan Dev Khalsa College, Chohla Sahib (Tarn Taran), jointly bagged the first runner-up trophy, with Majha College for Women, Tarn Taran, taking the second runner-up spot.
The valedictory function, held at the historic Dashmesh Auditorium, was presided over by Dr Rajesh Kalia, Deputy Registrar and Finance and Development Officer, GNDU, as the chief guest. Accompanying him was Sri Sukhdev Raj Suri, Finance Advisor, GNDU. The dignitaries honoured the winning teams with trophies and certificates.
In his address, Dr Kalia reminisced about his own student days, emphasising the importance of balancing academics with cultural, social and political activities. “Such engagements play a pivotal role in shaping a bright future, ” he said, urging students to hone their skills with dedication. Highlighting the auditorium’s legacy, he noted, “This stage has launched the careers of many artists who now shine on national and international platforms. I too performed here during my student life.”
Congratulating the winners and participants, Dr Kalia advised them to elevate their art through hard work and perseverance, making their student years memorable. “This auditorium will always be dedicated to nurturing your inner talents, ” he added. He extended special thanks to GNDU Vice-Chancellor Dr Karamjit Singh for his visionary leadership, which ensured the festival’s success and preparations for the Inter-Zonal event.
The Inter-Zonal Youth Mela, scheduled from November 7 to 9, will feature top teams from all zones, including first, second and third-place winners from the zonal rounds.
Director, Youth Welfare, Dr Amandeep Singh, lauded the winners, college managements and collaborators for their invaluable support, which turned the festival into a memorable affair. “We look forward to similar cooperation for the Inter-Zonal festival, ” he said, expressing optimism about injecting fresh enthusiasm into the larger event. He also welcomed the chief guests, including Sukhdev Suri, Dr Sunil Kumar and Director, Public Relations, Praveen Puri, for their gracious presence.
Dr Singh underscored that the festival not only provided a platform for student talents but also infused zeal for the upcoming mega gathering.