Vani Kaul
Vani Kaul
Times of Bennett
Student journalist covering news and events at Bennett University.
On World Book Day 2026 at Kunzum Book Cafe, Bennett University students explored the futuristic novel Master O by Dhiraj Singh, Deputy Dean at Times School of Media. Hosted by media expert Mia Lakra, the book talk delved into the story's themes of godmen, politics, and superpowers, earning Singh the Salis Mania Best Author Award (2023). Singh passionately unpacked character symbolism drawn from real-life observations, his writing journey, and revisions to perfect the plot. Lakra's witty questions and a rapid-fire round added humor, leading to an engaging Q&A. The event ended with thanks and felicitation for Singh, Lakra, and cafe founder Ajay Jain, leaving a memorable impact.
Bennett University's Times School of Media conducted a masterclass in PR and personal branding featuring Nikhil Dey, Executive Director at Adfactors PR. Students were walked through the A - Z of the public relations world through innovative interactive segments.
Times School of Media at Bennett University hosted the inaugural 'Bennett Dialogues' session, featuring West Asia expert Waiel Awwad in conversation with senior journalist Zakka Jacob. They discussed the Israel-Iran-USA conflict's global implications, including its roots in broader U.S.-China-Russia geopolitics, Israel's territorial ambitions per its scriptures, Gaza's humanitarian crisis affecting 2.6 million, and uneven global responses to events like October 7.Awwad critiqued U.S. "weapons of mass deception" over 253 years (e.g., Vietnam, Iraq, Iran), highlighted media bias with "no free media," and linked wars to economic greed over oil and chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz. He shared experiences from conflict zones, including the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and noted India's proactive stance amid potential economic risks like inflation.The event, attended by students and faculty, ended with Deputy Dean Prof. Dhiraj Singh's vote of thanks, promoting critical thinking on international issues.
Bennett University's Times School of Media hosted an intensive 48 hour photography and filmmaking workshop in association with DIGITEK & Cineposium Initiative. Students gained insights into the art of composition, gained valuable hands on experience and won goodies.
Bennett University has launched BENNETT DIALOGUES, a fortnightly talk series conceptualized by Chancellor Vineet Jain (Times Group MD) to help students grasp global geopolitical shifts. Led by Prof. Dhiraj Singh (Head, Centre for Media & Technology), it features informal fireside chats and Q&A with experts in geopolitics, business, and media. The series aims to connect world events to everyday impacts, like how the US-Israel-Iran war affects India's petrol and LPG prices. The inaugural edition on April 21 explores "The War in West Asia," with Times Now's Zakka Jacob and Dr. Waiel Awwad (Syrian-origin expert on West Asia conflicts, based in Delhi). Prof. Singh highlights its blend of Times Group media legacy and Bennett's academic excellence, benefiting media, liberal arts, business, and law students.
Jashn-E-Cinema 2026 embodied the university's vibrant cultural spirit through a night of unity, talent, and reflection. The highlight was BYOB Live's finale, where the audience joined in singing and swaying, blurring the stage and crowd in a shared, emotional celebration marking the year's end. The evening opened with a poignant badge ceremony honouring club leaders for their dedication, setting a reflective tone before the performances. Clubs showcased diverse talents: Advaita's energetic band set the musical rhythm; Cerebrum's witty Farzi Mushaira skit satirised poetry; Panache's ethnic-modern ramp walk dazzled visually; Verve's narrative Bollywood dance enthralled; Ansh's comedic theatre Big B chal Padhe delivered laughs; and Rivaaz's classical dance closed gracefully. Vikram Singh, Music Society Secretary, summed it up: “A great end to the year—a final goodbye, but a celebration of what we’ve built together.” The event was a farewell tapestry of collaboration, from quiet honours to explosive energy.