Mata Sundri College Celebrates Annual Fest SAAHAS with Zeal and Community Engagement"

New Delhi— Parivartan, the NSS Unit of Mata Sundri College for Women, University of Delhi, hosted its much-anticipated annual fest SAAHAS with unmatched zeal, vibrancy, and a strong sense of community engagement. The event brought together celebration, reflection, and social awareness, staying true to the ethos of the National Service Scheme and its vision of selfless service.

The day began on a spiritually uplifting note, with a soulful Kirtan that filled the atmosphere with serenity and devotion. The melodic chants and harmonious rhythms set a reflective tone for the day, reminding everyone of the values of mindfulness and gratitude that anchor a life of service.

Following this, a graceful classical dance performance captivated the audience. Deeply rooted in Indian culture, the performance conveyed timeless stories through expressive gestures and fluid movements, leaving viewers mesmerized by its elegance and poise.

The inaugural session commenced with the felicitation of the esteemed Chief Guests: Ms. Swati Maliwal, renowned activist and former Chairperson of the Delhi Commission for Women, and Dr. Tanu Jain, motivational speaker and civil servant. They were warmly welcomed and honored by the Principal, Prof. Harpreet Kaur, and the NSS Programme Officer, Dr. Uzma Nadeem.

Both dignitaries delivered compelling speeches, drawing from their personal journeys and professional experiences. Their addresses were not only empowering but also deeply thought-provoking, emphasizing the critical role youth must play in shaping a just and compassionate society. Their words resonated with the students, inspiring them to lead with sincerity and courage.

Prof. Harpreet Kaur, in her address, lauded the unwavering dedication of the NSS team, underlining the role of educational institutions in nurturing socially responsible citizens. Dr. Uzma Nadeem, the guiding force behind Parivartan, reflected on the unit’s year-long journey and commended the volunteers’ relentless commitment to change.

A major highlight of SAAHAS 2025 was an engaging panel discussion on contemporary social issues. The panel featured a diverse lineup: Ms. Shabnam Hashmi, noted social activist; Captain Sunaina Singh of the Indian Army; Mr. Rohtash Chaudhary, grassroots development advocate; and Bruna Freespirit, global influencer and sustainability advocate. Each speaker was felicitated for their outstanding contribution to society.

The panel delved into themes of courage, activism, gender equality, and youth-driven change. The discussion, rich with personal anecdotes and hard-earned insights, left the audience deeply moved, underscoring that empathy and collective action are the seeds of transformation.

Adding a fun and competitive twist to the day, a Treasure Hunt swept across the campus. Students raced to decode creatively placed clues, with laughter and camaraderie echoing through the corridors. Winners were celebrated with certificates and exciting hampers.

In the lead-up to the fest, an Online Photography Competition had invited submissions around the themes of courage, hope, and social service. The contest saw a flood of powerful entries, with the winning photographs lauded for their message and visual impact. Winners were duly awarded certificates and hampers in recognition of their artistic vision.

Bringing humor into the spotlight, the renowned comedian Tushar Basra took the stage next. His witty, relatable stand-up routine had the entire audience in splits, offering a delightful breather from the day’s emotional and intellectual intensity.

As evening approached, musical energy filled the grounds. Eco Rush, a dynamic indie band, delivered a high-octane performance, followed by a raw, socially charged rap act by Sarvagya, and an electrifying closing act by Mohit and team, whose soulful melodies and dynamic stage presence won roaring applause.

To wrap up the day on a celebratory note, a special meet-and-greet session was held with influencers Dheeraj Singh and Mansi Narang. Their candid interactions resonated with aspiring content creators and socially aware youth alike.

The college campus, transformed into a vibrant fest zone, featured food stalls, games, and student-run retail kiosks offering handmade merchandise. The carnival-like atmosphere brought together faculty, students, and guests, making SAAHAS 2025 not just an event, but a celebration of unity, courage, and commitment.

The event stood as a testament to the vision and hard work of student coordinators Shrutika Khattar, Bavneet Kaur, Seerat Bint E Manzoor, Prachi Palak, Vanshika, Gitika Sharma, Deerghi Sharma, and the entire NSS team. Their dedication was evident in every detail, making SAAHAS 2025 a memorable chapter in the college’s journey of service.

— Vijay Gaur, Bureau Chief