BU News

By Avni Rai Students of Times School of Media gain entrepreneurial insights with Alumni Nandini Nandal on day two of the Future Forward Alumni-Student Conference on Thursday. In the workshop, the guest speaker highlighted the importance of the right business mindset and skills that makes a good entrepreneur. The workshop was designed to educate budding media professionals and entrepreneurs about real-life situations and requirements in the industry. While discussing about business investments, she shared, “I want to tell you that when you are starting your own business, you need to plan out everything. How much investment do you have, how much are you putting into logistics, if you need to have employees? I own a boutique digital marketing agency and initially, I didn’t have to invest myself and that is why it’s important to have investors and seed money,” she added. Nandini Nandal, Digital boutique Founder, briefing the students Nandal elaborated on the traits of a successful business-person like discipline, the ability to take calculated risks and prioritizing teamwork over individualism. Nandini stressed the importance of creating systems to streamline business operations and protect the venture,“I learned that business success begins with a mindset of innovation, strategic planning, and the courage to take calculated risks. It's not just about starting a business; it's about creating value, solving problems, and embracing the journey of entrepreneurship with passion and perseverance," she said. The students engaged in asking their queries and participated enthusiastically in the session, “I got to learn so much from her especially because she was also in the same place as me just a few years ago here at TSOM . It’s invigorating to see our Alumni do so well in their careers,” first year BAJMC student, Hitakshi Bachhanni said.

By Aliza Ashraff Bennett University 's Times School of Media (TSOM) hosted a highly enlightening workshop on strategic thinking and market analysis on March 18, 2024. The event featured speakers and TSOM alumni Kartik Shukla and Sanidhya Sharda , who shared valuable insights into strategic planning, market behavior analysis, audience sentiment understanding, and effective brand research techniques. The workshop, attended by students, faculty members, and industry professionals, focused on the essential skills required in today's competitive media landscape. The speakers emphasized the role of innovation and adaptability in developing successful media strategies that resonate with target audiences. Kartik Shukla and Sanidhya Sharda, drawing from their industry experience, emphasized the importance of strategic thinking in media management. They highlighted the need for media professionals to stay ahead by analyzing market trends, understanding audience preferences, and conducting effective brand research to craft impactful communication strategies. During the session, Sanidhya stated, "What people say about the brand online is important, but what matters is what people choose in the end." Sanidhya Sharda speaks about his industry-level experience with the students. The interactive sessions included discussions on real-world case studies, hands-on exercises, and practical workshops. Participants engaged in lively debates and knowledge-sharing sessions, gaining practical insights into strategic decision-making processes. Ms. Shruti Jain, the overall faculty in charge of TSOM’s placement board , praised the workshop for its practical value in helping students think strategically. She specifically highlighted the guidance provided by Kartik Shukla and Sanidhya Sharda, noting how their knowledge helped participants grasp strategic management concepts more deeply in the context of media and communication.

By Aliza Ashraff The Times School of Media at Bennett University hosted its first Alumni-Student Conference on 17th April, bringing together alumni and current students for a day of insightful discussions and networking. The conference featured two key events highlighting the significance of internships and pursuing a master's degree in the media industry. Praneet Kaur , Head of Communities & Experiences shares her experience about internships. Praneet Kaur, head of experiences & communities, Creativegarh, was the alumni speaker for the "Importance of the Internships"- conference. She stated, “Internships were instrumental in helping me understand the dynamics of the media industry. They allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, paving the way for a fulfilling career." Esteemed alumni shared their experiences on how internships provided them with valuable practical knowledge, industry exposure, and networking opportunities. They highlighted that internships are not just about gaining work experience but also about developing essential skills, building professional relationships, and exploring different career paths within the media industry. TSOM students participating in the panel discussion. The second event was about the" significance of pursuing a master's degree in media and communication". Alumni who pursued master's degrees shared how this academic journey enhanced their career prospects. Kartik Shukla and Saumya Teotia were the alumni speakers for this event. Kartik, an alumnus who completed his MBA from Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication, said, "A master's degree not only added value to my resume but also sharpened my analytical and strategic thinking abilities. It gave me a holistic view of media operations and prepared me for leadership roles." The conference concluded with a networking session where alumni and students engaged in meaningful conversations, exchanged ideas and explored potential collaboration opportunities. Shruti Jain, founding member of the Times School of Media, expressed her gratitude to the alumni for their valuable insights and encouraged students to grasp the knowledge gained from the conference to chart their career paths effectively.

By Avni Rai Times School of Media kicks off its 3-day Alumni-Student Conference on Wednesday with a graceful opening ceremony and panel discussion by the keynote speakers. The conference featured various successful alumni like Dr. Samir Kapur, Director of Adfactors PR, who talked about his career journey, sharing how he transitioned from being an engineer to working in public relations for brands which he enjoys. (Dr. Samir Kapur addresses the students of TSOM) Prof. Sanjeev Ratan Singh, the Dean of TSOM, expressed his delight at the event’s successful beginning and acknowledged the effort put in by everyone involved. The event brought together alumni and current students, fostering a space for connection, knowledge sharing, and inspiration, "It was an incredible journey graduating from the Bennett batch of 2017. Hope our stories highlighted the breadth of opportunities in the media industry and the valuable foundation a TSOM education provides," Khushi Pal, content producer at Hindustan Times said. When asked about the role of AI in media and what it means to be a human communicator in today's multimedia landscape, Praneet Kaur highlighted a crucial concern about the rapid spread of misinformation and disinformation, particularly with the emergence of deep fake technology, “The current challenges faced by communicators create an environment where false information can proliferate swiftly and convincingly. The rise of AI-driven tools, such as deep fake technology, has intensified the need for human communicators to uphold integrity and authenticity in their work,” he added. The students got the opportunity to not only listen to the alumni’s experiences but also ask them about their real life industry experience, “It was a really great start to the event. I am looking forward to more of the Alumni visits so I can learn about their work,” first-year BAJMC student, Divya Sabarwal said.

By Aliza Ashraff The Girls Health Club , in collaboration with the University Women Development Cell (UWDC), hosted an event aimed at promoting creativity and emotional well-being. The event took place on April 15th, 2024, starting at 4:00 PM, at the A&B Block and provided an experience for all participants. The event featured a “Sentence Completion Board” activity, where participants completed sentences and shared their thoughts with others. Another activity, “Let Go and Take Flight”, allowed attendees to reflect on challenges by writing them down and transforming them into paper planes which signifies their frustration. These planes were then released into the sky as a symbolic gesture of letting go and embracing new beginnings. The "Drink Your Drink Challenge" was also part of the event, offering participants the opportunity to engage in thought-provoking reflections while enjoying a beverage. The GHC's content head stated," The farewell event was all about saying goodbye to Bennettians in different like juggling the balloons, completing your sentences and noting down your frustration of the year and making a plane out of it symbolizing letting go of the pain you felt and being mentally prepare for the upcoming year." Attendees were encouraged to express themselves, engage with one another, and grow personally. It gave people the chance to get together and explore their creativity in a supportive environment. The Girls Health Club and UWDC organized this event to highlight the importance of mental well-being and resilience within the university. Participants had the opportunity to participate in an evening focused on self-discovery and community engagement.

By PRANAVI AMBATI Terming it 'the perennial quest of asking the right question,' the institution of being a lawyer, according to the Learned Attorney General for India , MR. R. Venkataramani is to sight injustice and question it. Gracing the valedictory session as the Chief Guest of the 1st Bennett International Moot Court Competition (BIMCC) at the School of Law , Bennett University , his valedictory address touched upon exploring legal studies beyond the 5-year course one studies as a law student. "My advice to this generation of upcoming lawyers is to keep studying the mind after completing legal studies. Ask yourself, 'What have I learnt today?' and one day, you will realize that all that you learnt at the undergraduate level is a limited edition study of Law," he said. The Attorney General expounded that when student cohorts turn advocates or judges, they realize that what they require the knowledge of is an "unlimited edition" of Law and, hence, the need for self-introspection to fasten this process of acknowledging the need to study the discipline further. The Attorney General for India Mr. R. Venkataramani (centre) received by the Officiating Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Ajith Abraham (right) and the Dean School of Law Dr. Pradeep Kulshrestha (left) upon his arrival. In his address, he suggested that all students read Frederick Schauer's book Think like a Lawyer: A New Introduction to Legal Reasoning. He explains why he stands by Schauer's outlook: "Mathematicians ought to, by subject, think logically and rationally. Yet logic and rationale do not aid in solving the issues of the common people. Fairness principle does - and that examination of fairness stems from thinking like a lawyer about what is just and unjust." Infusing the valedictory address with literary references, such as the 'Thought Machine' from George Orwell's 1984, the Attorney General kept the atmosphere light-hearted and interactive—even as the words he delivered were poignant. In his concluding statements, he urged the gathering at the 1st BIMCC to "all be a part of the process of creation—of creating a peaceful and just world." (The writer is a Semester IV BA Journalism and Mass Communication programme student.)

By Prithvi Abhay Shankaregowda Students of School of Engineering put their coding and problem solving skills to a test in the ‘Code Roast’ event organized by IEEE on day three of the Coding and Tech, Triverse Fest. The event kicked off with the participants being divided into teams of three and the core team members of IEEE explained the rule of the game. The game consisted of three rounds where the teams were given codes to write and mathematical problems to solve. With a time constraint of 15 minutes, the game excited the participants’ neurons, “All three rounds included the participant writing codes and checking if their opponent’s answer is right or wrong. The challenge was to not only write the correct code but check if the opponent made a mistake,” the Chairperson of IEEE and second year Btech C.S.E. student, Siddharth Mall said. The winning team will bag a cash prize-pool of Rs. 13,000 and the results will be announced after the fest comes to an end, “I had so much fun in the Code Roast. I could solve the problems and write codes but it was a little difficult to read through the other team’s codes and point out their mistakes. Coding is hard in itself, let alone re-checking it,” second year Btech C.S.E student and participant, Nicshay Kumar said.

By Avni Rai Students of the School of Engineering put their coding and betting skills to a test in the ‘Bet for Tech’ event organized by IEEE on day two of the three-day Triverse Fest. The event kicked off with the participants being divided into teams and the core team members of IEEE explained the rule of the game. The first round consisted of a competitive question and answer round, the second consisted of problem-solving and the third was rapid fire, “All three rounds included the participant betting if their opponent’s answer is right or wrong. The most challenging is the problem-solving, I think, because they really have to solve the math equations to get the answer right,” the head of the technical team, Rachit Kumar said. The winning team will bag a cash prize-pool of Rs. 7,000 and the results will be announced after the fest comes to an end, “I think my team has a chance of winning, but overall the game was really exciting. I got to use my coding and math skills and the betting part just made it more interesting,” first-year Btech C.S.E student and participant, Khushi Tanwar said.

By Medhansh Das In a captivating display of intellectual prowess, Prof. Makarand Paranjape took centre stage to deliver his inaugural lecture as the newly appointed Professor of Eminence. The theme of the evening, " Indian Knowledge Systems: Myths vs. Reality ," enthralled a diverse audience eager to unravel the intricate layers of India's intellectual heritage. Breaking away from conventional terminology, Prof. Paranjape advocated for the embrace of "Indian knowledge traditions" over the more restrictive label of "systems." This shift in perspective set the tone for a profound exploration of the fluid and interconnected nature of India's vast reservoir of wisdom. Highlighting the paramount importance of integrating Indian knowledge traditions into the curriculum of liberal arts , Prof. Paranjape emphasized how such integration enriches cognition and nurtures a more holistic worldview among students. Navigating through the annals of history, the distinguished professor shed light on the tragic saga of the Nalanda library 's destruction—a poignant symbol of colonial vandalism that scattered fragments of India's intellectual legacy across distant lands. Yet, amidst the ashes, Prof. Paranjape uncovered tales of resilience as some fragments found their way back home. The event also witnessed the inauguration of a book section housing 4000 rare volumes, generously donated by Prof. Paranjape himself. Additionally, attendees were treated to the unveiling of the Hindi translation of his acclaimed work, " Death and Afterlife of Mahatma Gandhi ," titled " Mahatma Gandhi: Mrityu aur Punaruthan ." In his closing remarks, Prof. Paranjape's eloquence reverberated as he urged attendees to embrace the profound legacy of Indian knowledge traditions, guiding them to traverse the labyrinth of intellectual heritage with renewed vigour and appreciation. As the audience departed with their minds alight with newfound understanding, they carried forth a torch illuminating the timeless wisdom encapsulated in India's rich tapestry of knowledge. (The writer is a BAJMC Semester IV student)

By Prithvi Abhay Shankaregowda Students of Times School of Media (TSOM) explored the world of media education after Covid-19 in a joint webinar hosted by TSOM and the HSE University , St Petersburg, Russia, on Thursday. The session was graced by panelists from India, Russia and Canada who discussed the advantages and shortcomings of online media education, “Online education plays a vital role in today’s day and age as anyone can access it from anywhere across the world, making it an important tool. But, student engagement, availability of technology and ethics of learning can be some of the major challenges faced,” Magdalena Gaete , head of Laboratory of Reputation management at HSE University, said. Journalist and online educator Daria Animov emphasised on the importance of creating engaging curriculum for online media education and its efficiency. Various learning management systems were adopted by universities across the world that made online education efficient in the Covid-19 pandemic. “Standardising online education through LMS and Dashboards is really effective. Along with that, what we did was hold workshops for students as well as faculty to educate them as to how online learning systems work,”Gabrielle Heard, online educator at Anderson College at Toronto said. Technological accessibility and poor student-teacher relationships were the major challenges highlighted by the panelists. “In the Indian context, not everyone can buy a laptop. There are a lot of communication gaps that still need to be addressed. Especially in Media education, practical applications and knowledge is essential which cannot be completely taught online. At the end of the day, online education can be used as a tool but traditional methods make sure that the student and teacher are connected,” media professional and academician Shalini Narayan said. Students participated in the webinar with questions on the future of online education and its ethics, “I wanted to know about the unfair practices that happen in online education. For example, students sometimes do an online course with the intention of earning a certificate and not gaining knowledge. This webinar helped me understand that while cheating can be done in online or offline mode, it’s the knowledge and how you apply it in your tasks is what matters,” first-year Journalism and Mass Communication student Disha Kapoor said. (The writer is first-year BAJMC student with TSOM)

The Love All Awards, hosted by Bennett University, honoured India's para badminton champions, recognising their remarkable journey and exceptional athletic talent. Through insightful speeches, engaging fireside chats and a thrilling badminton match, the event left attendees motivated and optimistic about the future of parasports in India.

By Medhansh Das Bennett University ’s Times School of Media ( TSOM ) invited one of its most successful alumni, Kartik Shukla, from the batch of 2017-2020, being the top scorer of his batch in marketing communication courses at TSOM, he channelised his strength further by doing an MBA from Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication , Pune, where he also served as the head of the Placement Cell. Subsequently, he has worked with top organisations like Kantar and Publicis . The Alumni Coach series which started as a Placement Board Exclusive last semester with a vision of creating a high calibre cadre of industry-ready professionals, featuring the career journeys/ stories of the immediate seniors of the current students of the TSOM- their insights, their struggles, their challenges, and their successes. The vision of this whole platform is to expose, train, and prepare the students for a higher plane of existence – both in the way they operate and the exposure they receive. In the session, Shukla shared his college experience doing various PR and marketing projects which ultimately led him to take a keen interest in the arena of research. Naming his presentation “The Road Taken” (a play on “The Road Not Taken” a poem by Robert Frost) he explained how he ended up in the media world coming from a science background. “Failure is your greatest teacher, college prepares you for the outside world in this matter, you make mistakes here, so you don’t make them in the industry,” said Shukla. The main focus of these sessions is that the students have a live interaction with the people preceding them immediately which was a success. Students asked Mr. Shukla questions regarding academics and college life in general. (The writer is a BAJMC Semester IV student)

By Prithvi Abhay Shankaregowda Literary enthusiasts of Bennett University gained insights on creative writing and its role in journalism by eminent journalist and author Prachi Gupta, in a session on day 2 of the literary fest Aalekh 2024. The fest by Bennett University’s literary and debating society, Cerebrum hosted Gupta as a part of its Author Discussion series, where she focused on navigating between fact and fiction, “In journalism, you stick to the facts and can’t use your creativity or flair while writing. But in fiction, everything feels like a movie. That is why, I think I like writing fiction more,” she said. She shared that when it comes to soft news stories, she can use the elements of creative writing which is not possible in the case of political stories. Gupta talked about her journey, from aiming to be a journalist and accidentally becoming an author, “I did B-tech but became a journalist. I was always exposed to really heavy news but I never wanted to write hard-core news like politics. I love fashion and entertainment, I wanted to write meaningful stories in the same. But then, I started preparing for UPSE and the book I wrote when I was in college became a bestseller which made me pursue my career as an author too.” After an exceptional career as a journalist, Prachi Gupta broke the barriers in the literary world with four best-selling books and started a publishing house for aspiring authors. “Prachi ma’am is an amazing author, I loved her book. Listening to her story about self publishing her book and navigating the media industry is really inspiring,” core team member of Cerebrum, Kamalika Chatterjee said.

By Avni Rai Students of BU pulled up their socks to debate and get quizzed on Day 2 of the literary fest, Aalekh 2024 by Cerebrum, the Debating and MUN club of Bennett University. A Harry Potter-themed quiz buzzed the magical sparks of students. They were divided into teams named after the houses in the book series. The quiz took a literary turn and questions of Shakespearean plays were asked to the students, “The quiz was designed to test if the participants are true Potter heads or not. I really enjoyed planning the questions especially the Shakespeare round,” Cerebrum’s core team member, Zeal Bhagat said. The quiz was followed up by ‘The Unheard’ debate competition, where students engaged in one one-on-one debate with each other on various social and political issues. “We debated for motion of the atomic bomb decision and Harry Truman. It was amazing listening to the opposition making some points which if they were true, it would have changed history. I am always up for a debate about the second world war,” first-year Btech CSE student, Riya Bhajan said. After two days of amazing guest lectures by eminent authors and literary personalities, the fest was concluded with these competitions.

Author Parvati Sharma visited Bennett University as a guest for the literary festival Aalekh and held an engaging discussion on Mughal history.

Bennett University's official literary and debating club, Cerebrum, inaugurated "Aalekh," a vibrant celebration of ideas and literature, on March 20, 2024. The two-day book fair is designed to provide people a better appreciation for writing and to serve as a forum for thought-provoking conversations. On the first day, renowned guest writers generously shared their knowledge and insights with enthusiastic attendees.

By Disha Kapoor The Learning Resource Centre and CEREBRUM organized an exclusive motivational talk session for the inauguration of Aalekh 2K24 on March 20th at Bennett University . The session featured distinguished guest speakers Ms. Radhika Kawlra Singh, an Olympic mind coach, and Ms. Mimansa Singh Tanwar, a leading clinical psychologist. They aimed to address the growing concerns surrounding stress and anxiety , and to empower individuals with effective strategies for managing these mental health challenges. The guests urged the attendees not to dismiss their mental well-being and just like there is physical aid, an individual should also get psychological or mental aid whenever needed. The speakers emphasized the importance of raising awareness about mental health and highlighted the significance of caring for our minds as diligently as we care for our bodies. “Just because you post about mental health doesn’t mean you are spreading awareness, the reality is that 75% people don’t seek psychological aid because of lack of awareness or resources, so we really need to understand our role in society and do our part,” leading clinical psychologist, Ms Mimansa Singh Tanwar, said. The speaker sheds light on how social media is affecting our mental health and impacting our relationships with individuals. They talked about how relationships always require efforts and rather than just constantly judging and trying to look for the perfect love, people should do self-reflection and move away from social media for a bit and just think about their strengths and weaknesses to gain insights about themselves to maintain proper relationships in life. “Question your inner instincts and don’t be afraid to ask questions in a relationship because the only thing that will set you free is the truth in a relationship,” Olympic mind coach Radhika Kalra Singh, said. The session involved multiple questions by the host and the guest speakers answered all of them with the factual knowledge they had, they talked a lot about how one can manage stress and anxiety. They also emphasised the fact that individuals should not use words like depression or anxiety lightly as they are well-researched serious problems that people face. “The session was very insightful and interesting especially for us as our generation is more vocal about such issues, we can make a difference and help create a sensitive and mindful environment wherein people feel safe and comfortable in getting help or talking about their problems,” Mridvika Prashar, currently pursuing bachelor's in journalism and mass comm., said. The event concluded with a Q&A session, allowing participants to engage directly with the speakers and gain further insights into specific concerns related to stress and anxiety management. The attendees were left with a sense of optimism and a commitment to implementing positive changes in their lives. The organisers expressed their gratitude to the guests by providing them with a token of appreciation. Overall, the motivational talk served as a beacon of hope and empowerment, highlighting the importance of mental health and proactively managing stress and anxiety to lead a happier and healthier life.

Bennett University's annual literary extravaganza, "Aalekh: A Carnival of Books," witnessed an enlightening session on exploring corporate narratives featuring three distinguished authors, Rajnish Tomar, Ujwal Kalra, and Jitendra Girdhar. The event was moderated by Dr. Om Prakash Dwivedi, the esteemed Dean of the School of Liberal Arts, who facilitated a captivating discussion on the complexity of storytelling within the corporate world.

The first day of Aalekh 2k24 featured Sahitya Akademi winner Mridula Garg and motivational speaker, best known for his book "You Can Win," Shiv Khera, as the chief guests. The two delivered powerful talks and shared motivating stories from their early lives that changed their outlooks and careers. ​​Mridula Garg has written over 30 books in Hindi, including novels, short story collections, plays, and essays. Khera, apart from being an author, is also a well-known activist.

The second edition of the annual literary festival, Aalekh 2k24, kicked off with great enthusiasm and excitement at the Learning Resource Centre, in collaboration with the official Literary and Debating club of Bennett University, Cerebrum. This year's event promised to be even more inspiring and engaging than before, with a distinguished figure gracing the occasion as the chief guest - none other than Mr. Shiv Khera, an eminent author and renowned motivational speaker.

Bennett University's Official Debating and Literary Club, in collaboration with the Learning Resource Centre, set the stage for a captivating literary event, the second instalment of Aalekh 2k24 (2024). The event unfolded today with much anticipation and excitement, drawing a diverse crowd eager to delve into the world of literature.

By Aliza Ashraff Anime fans gathered at Bennett University during the third day of Uphoria, 17 th March, to participate in the ' Weeb Quiz '. The event attracted a diverse group of students interested in testing their understanding of anime and manga . The quiz was organized by the anime club of the university who curated questions to cater to both casual viewers and dedicated fans. The registration amount for the quiz was INR 149. The Anime Club members and the student council volunteers made sure that the whole event ran smoothly. The quiz featured challenging questions covering various aspects of anime and comics, from iconic characters and storylines to industry trivia. Formed teams of two to three members and participated in a friendly competition, showcasing their familiarity with different anime genres and cultural references. Anoushka Saxena, a first-year BAJMC student stated, "I am not someone who follows anime or is an anime fan, but there's so much that I got to learn from the quiz that now I feel intrigued to watch anime series and movies." Rounds included guessing the image, rapid-fire, and audio-based questions. The top-performing group from round two was considered as the winners. A few of the judging criteria stated that any misconduct during the quiz would result in the group's immediate disqualification, hence any kind of excuses was not accepted, participants would not be given any additional time and if more than one group gave the correct answer, the group with the shortest time was taken into consideration. The winner of the first prize was awarded a cash prize of three thousand rupees along with a participation certificate. As the Weeb Quiz concluded, participants reflected on the challenges and opportunities for improvement, each leaving with a sense of determination and a deeper connection to the anime community. Uphoria 2024 at Bennett University resonated with a spirit of growth and shared passion among all who took part.

By Anoushka Saxena Bennett University ’s annual cultural fest, Uphoria’24 kickstarted with students from different colleges appearing for a wide range of competitions. The university’s official western dance club, VERVE, organized three different dance competition s, Groove Wars, the western group dance competition, followed by the street dance battle, Freestyle Frenzy and a solo western dance competition, Beat Blitz on the last day of the fest, that is, the 17 th of January. Groove wars, an inter college group dance competition saw a huge number of dance groups from several colleges showcasing extraordinary vigor and passion through their group dynamics. “All the teams have put in tremendous efforts into bringing about the best on stage. One of my favorite performances till now has to be that of Ramjas College. While it is too early to make an assumption about the winning team, what is certain is the fact that the audience is going to be left spellbound by the performances lined up in store for them, said Ishan Jain, one of the members of the Verve organizing committee. The freestyle street dance off, Freestyle Frenzy was an amalgamation of both rhythm and creativity. The performers’ expressions, knowledge of beat, stage appearance and crowd response summed up the judging criteria for this street dance battle. “I loved how the stage automatically lit up with the dancers’ energy. I was pleasantly surprised by the scale at which the competition was organized. Moreover, seeing everybody dance, I also felt inspired to pursue dancing again.” Said a BA-JMC 1 st year student, Radhika Gupta, when asked about her take on the performances. The prize pool for Groove Wars stood at INR 45,000 rupees. While it was INR 10,000 and INR 16,000 rupees for Beat Blitz and Freestyle Frenzy respectively. The last dance competition for the day, Beat Blitz, allowed the participants to bring forth their story to the fore by taking the center stage, embracing diverse Western dance styles. The solo dance performances were infused with a vast range of emotions and got the audience tapping their feet and grooving with the performers alongside. “I feel so happy judging such talented, budding dancers today and looking at how enthusiastic each performance is, it is becoming difficult for us to choose one person to be the winner for the day. Uphoria, as a fest itself is a treat for those visiting the university for the first time. As far as picking up the winners is concerned, we are still confused and wondering which team out of other energetic teams to handover the trophy to.” Said Mr Ankit Kumar, who was judging the group and solo dance competition. While the declaration of winners is still awaited, the three competitions have certainly managed to give a push to young dancers to upskill and better their craft.

By Vanisha Rajesh Singh Greater Noida : The final day of Uphoria 2024 , Bennett University 's annual cultural festival, was a whirlwind of enthusiasm as students participated in a diverse range of events. From electrifying dance battles to thought-provoking slam poetry , day three provided a fitting finale to the three-day extravaganza. The day kicked off with a high-energy dance battle called Freestyle Frenzy. The tension was thick as participants, each with their own distinct style, took to the floor to showcase their impressive skills. The crowd roared with approval as the dancers executed intricate choreography and footwork, leaving everyone eager to see who would emerge victorious. Next up on the Uphoria stage was Groove Wars, the power-packed western group dance competition. Teams swooned the audience with their tightly synchronized routines set to pulsating music. Each group displayed exceptional coordination and creativity, making the judges' decision a difficult one. The energy in the venue remained high as the dancers battled it out for the coveted title of best dance crew. Bardic Battle, the slam poetry competition, offered a platform for students to express themselves through powerful words. Poems tackled a variety of themes, from personal identity and social issues to love and loss. The heartfelt performances resonated with the audience, flickering thoughtful conversations and introspection. Aakrosh , the nukkad natak competition, featured student-written and performed street plays that brought a powerful social commentary to the Uphoria stage. Teams tackled pressing social issues and contemporary concerns relevant to young adults. Renowned Indian actor and theatre artist Naseer Abdullah presided as the judge. After witnessing the raw passion and talent on display, Abdullah commended the students, stating, "Their dedication to theatre and their ability to use this platform to raise awareness is truly commendable." Cerebrum's parliamentary debate provided a welcome change of pace. Eloquent arguments and well-researched counterpoints made for a stimulating competition. The day's events culminated with Beat Blitz, the solo western dance competition. Solo dancers took the stage with confidence, impressing the crowd their individual styles and technique. Each performance was unique and energetic, keeping the audience engaged until the very end. The undisputed highlight of the evening was the performance by popular artist Shaan . No stranger to the Indian music scene, Shaan's career stretches back decades, with chart-topping hits like Mai Hoon Don and Chand Sifarish . His setlist was a perfect blend of nostalgia and contemporary hits, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy. The crowd erupted in cheers as he performed his most beloved songs, singing along word-for-word and dancing with unbridled enthusiasm. The concert concluded on a high note, leaving the audience wanting more and solidifying Uphoria 2024 as a truly unforgettable event. (The writer is a semester IV student of B.A. Journalism and Mass Communications programme)

Bennett's University's much awaited annual cultural fest Uphoria has started off with a bang and is filled with fun competitions and amazing opportunities for all university goers. As all of Bennett's clubs and committees geared up to host their events at the three day cultural extravaganza the university's media club- Isac wasn't far behind.

The finale of Bennett University's Uphoria 2024 cultural festival featured a highly anticipated performance by renowned Indian playback singer Shaan. With students eagerly lining up an hour before the show, Shaan's dynamic stage presence and captivating vocals enthralled the audience. Performing a mix of Bollywood hits and soulful melodies, Shaan left a lasting impression, concluding Uphoria 2024 on a high note filled with unforgettable memories and electrifying energy.

Uphoria 2024's second day at Bennett University's annual fest was filled with diverse cultural events showcasing the talent and enthusiasm of students from across Delhi NCR. The highlight of the day was the Mr. and Ms. Uphoria talent show, where participants demonstrated their skills and knowledge in various areas. The musical drama "Masle-e-Mohabbat" captivated the audience with its blend of classical and modern elements, humor, and engaging storytelling. Other events like Fitoor and Rockmania displayed the talents of participants from universities across the NCR region. The day concluded with a vibrant Band Baaja DJ Night, keeping the energy high as the festivities moved into the third day.

The three-day annual cultural fest Uphoria left the audience spellbound with some phenomenal events on day one, ranging from dance performances to mini mela. Day one of the fest concluded with an anticipating performance by the ‘Nalayak’ band, after an enchanting prom night. The night started with a dance performance by Verve, the western dance club of college, on popular songs like Pyaar ki kahani suno, Ankhiyan Gulab, This Town, and many more. The night ended with some rock music by the nalayak band performing with a high spirit.

By Aditi Shrivastava Uphoria Day 2 witnessed amazing events by various clubs, which created an exuberant environment at Bennett University . One such event was Impromptu Frames hosted by ISAC, the photography club of the college, in which 15 participants competed to showcase the best frames. To contribute to the theme of uphoria, “Band Baja Baraat”, the topic given to all the participants was Reflections of Bennett, to capture all the happy faces, and ongoing events that showcased the vibrant campus. “I was a former secretary of ISAC in 2019 and I never got a chance to participate in such events, it was always organizing it for others, and now as I have graduated and working, I feel that this is the right time I should go back to my college and participate in this competition to relieve my memories”, Vartika Madan, a participant , said. All the participants were given 45 minutes to capture the moments and submit their best work, on the other hand, another event Pixel Perfect, hosted by the club saw a failure as only one participant showed up for the graphic designing competition. “I expected amazing participation from both events but people did not show up in pixel perfect, however, it got covered by impromptu frames where participants have submitted some good work and now, we are sorting and searching for the winner among those 15 people”, Samrddhi Singh, Secretary of ISAC club, said.

By Prithvi Abhay Shankaregowda Bennett University ’s art club Silhouette organised a canvas painting competition on D2 of the University’s three-day cultural fest Uphoria . Students from various universities and colleges of Delhi NCR participated in the competition. Silhoutte had also put up the Mandala Art competition on Day 1 which was a success. The canvas painting competition was another highlight. “There is no theme for the competition because I feel that art is best made when it is one’s original expression. Canvas painting can be a beautiful landscape or a person, it can be anything the artist wants it to be,” BTech second-year student and creative head of Silhouette Harshit Agarwal said. The results will be announced on Day 3 of the fest and the winner of the competition will be rewarded a cash prize of Rs. 5000. The participants created art in different genres ranging from abstract to modern art. “I am painting an abstract portrait of Lord Shiva. It is inspired from the Trimurti statue of the Elephanta Caves. This is my second year with the Uphoria Art competition and it has been amazing,” a participant from Noida International University Divya Deveshvidya said. (The writer is BAJMC's Semester II student.)

By Medhansh Das Panache , the esteemed Fashion Society of Bennett University , added a dazzling touch to Uphoria 2024 by hosting a glamorous Talent Show on its second day. This spectacular event aimed to crown the deserving winners as Mr and Ms Uphoria , showcasing the university's finest talent and style. The event, aptly named "Mr and Ms Uphoria," unfolded in three captivating stages, each brimming with excitement and anticipation. The first stage set the runway ablaze with the Ramp Walk , where contestants flaunted their poise, confidence, and unique sense of fashion. The audience was enthralled as the participants sashayed down the catwalk, exuding charm and charisma. Transitioning seamlessly to the second stage, Talents and Hobby Displays, contestants dazzled the audience with their diverse array of talents and passions. From mesmerizing musical performances to captivating dance routines, and awe-inspiring art displays, each participant left a lasting impression, showcasing their creativity and skill. The final stage of the event, the Question and Answer round, brought forth moments of intellect and eloquence as contestants faced the scrutiny of the judges. With thought-provoking questions, the contestants eloquently articulated their thoughts, demonstrating not only their outer beauty but also their inner depth and wisdom. Throughout the event, the atmosphere was electric, with cheers and applause resonating in the air as participants showcased their talents and vied for the coveted titles of Mr. and Ms. Uphoria. “It was quite exhilarating to be up on the stage but once I was in the groove, I felt a lot confident” said Kavya Sindhi, a participant. The event not only celebrated the spirit of Uphoria but also served as a platform for students to showcase their creativity, passion, and individuality. It was an evening to remember, filled with glamour, talent, and moments of sheer brilliance, truly embodying the essence of Uphoria. (The writer is a BAJMC Semester IV student)

At the inauguration of TSOM's Going Beyond Spectrum initiative, guest speaker Vineet K.K.N 'Panchhi' discussed the theme "Heroes or Villains," emphasizing the importance of action over bystandership. The session, attended by Mass Communication and Film students, explored concepts of morality and heroism. Panchhi showcased Jai Hind Project's short films, offering internships for students to join the cause. The initiative aims to highlight unsung heroes across India. The interactive session concluded with students presenting memorabilia to Panchhi, promising more insightful sessions in the future.

By Rishi Bhushan In order to foster a culture of holistic growth and leadership, the Times School of Media (TSOM) proudly announced the inauguration of "The Going Beyond Spectrum ," a pioneering series for aptitude and character building. Spearheaded by the TSOM Placement Board , this series aims to transcend conventional academic boundaries and delve into the realms of personal and professional development. The inaugural session of The Going Beyond Spectrum, scheduled for Thursday, March 14, 2024, promises an enriching discourse under the theme " Heroes or Villains ." The guest speaker, Vineet KKN Panchhi, is all set to captivate audiences with his insights into the conundrum of heroism in contemporary society. Panchhi, an exemplar of empathetic leadership, brings a wealth of experience from his diverse professional journey. Vineet's trajectory is marked by his unwavering commitment to positive change. Central to his mission is 'The Jai Hind Project ,' a pioneering initiative aimed at spotlighting the narratives of unsung heroes who champion social causes across India. Through this platform, Panchhi endeavours to amplify the voices of those addressing the nation's most pressing issues, thereby inspiring a ripple effect of social responsibility and action. His philosophy of ‘the opposite of a hero is not a villain; it's a bystander’ is the ethos that underscores the transformative potential of collective action and the urgency for individuals to transcend their self-interest and engage meaningfully with societal challenges. ‘The Going Beyond Series’ is another initiative of the Placement Board which launched the ‘Alumni Coach Series’ and ‘ CEO Masterclasses ’ to enhance the skills of TSOM students and make them industry-ready. (The writer is a BAJMC Semester IV student)

A session on “Visual Storytelling: Learnings and Challenges” was conducted on March 7, 2024, by the Times School of Media Placement Committee as part of their alumni series. The speaker was Ms. Reeti Agarwal, who studied journalism and mass communication at Bennett University from 2017 to 2020. She shared her experiences and struggles as a working professional and guided mass communication and journalism students.

By Kamakshi Deshmukh In a significant stride towards fostering internationalisation and providing students with a global outlook, Bennett University 's Times School of Media ( TSOM ) organised a joint webinar series titled "Exploring Futures Series’24: Interdisciplinary Perspective on Global Issues." Partnering with the Higher School of Economics ( HSE ) in St Petersburg, Russia, the webinar brought together experts from various fields to discuss key issues with interdisciplinary perspectives. The webinar, held under the theme "Interdisciplinary Perspective on Global Issues,” featured distinguished speakers, including Alexander Efimkin from the Press Office at the State Heritage Museum, Russia; Mikhail Tyurkin , Academic Supervisor at HSE, St. Petersburg , Russia, and Nalin Mehta , Managing Director of Money Control . Nalin Mehta emphasized the evolving landscape of the media industry, stressing the importance of striking a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical learning. He highlighted the dynamic nature of media business models, calling for a higher proportion of practical exposure in education to align with industry needs. Alexander Efimkin underscored the vital connection between journalism and its societal impact. “It is important to shape the outlook and assess the outlook, fostering collaboration between industry and academia is essential for shaping students' outlook and preparing them for real-world challenges,” TSOM Dean Sanjeev Ratna Singh said. The discussion brought attention to the enduring significance of fundamental skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and effective writing, even in the face of evolving technologies. Speakers emphasized the role of media in politics, emphasizing its enduring influence. Harmony between theory and practice was deemed necessary, with a consensus that while technology evolves, foundational skills remain paramount. The idea of a universal media guide, extending beyond politics to encompass various spheres of life, was a recurring theme. The speakers concurred that educational institutions should have a diverse faculty, including both pure academicians and industry experts, to provide students with a well-rounded perspective. The universal applicability of media guidance across diverse domains, including politics, art, and culture, was a key takeaway from the webinar. This collaborative initiative by TSOM, Bennett University, and HSE, St. Petersburg, Russia, not only provided students with diverse viewpoints but also emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary knowledge in navigating the complexities of the globalized world. [The writer is a Semester IV BA Journalism and Mass Communication programme.]

By Aryamaan Jit Singh Bawa Bennett University recently played host to Aditya Bhasin , a prominent figure associated with mainstream cinema. Bhasin, who has been involved in directing since his college days, is known for his unwavering commitment to his unique cinematic vision. Dr. Gauri D Chakroborty , Bhasin’s professor during his university days, organised an exclusive screening of " Pata Lapata ," a film that earned the prestigious Best Film award at the Cannes Film Festival. The movie is a testament to Bhasin's dedication to his craft and his ability to bring compelling stories to the big screen. The event was managed and organised by Cineposium, Times School of Media ’s film society. A key collaborator in the making of "Pata Lapata" is Parth Saini , the music composer of the film. Saini, along with Bhasin, has been associated with Underdog Motion Pictures , creating a range of short films before venturing into music videos. The duo's creative journey also includes a non-fiction talk show titled " Behind the Bar .” "Pata Lapata" stands out with its narrative focusing on four central characters navigating through different bastis and life situations. It is a unique docudrama for its addition of elements of satire and its portrayal of the ground reality of slum dwellers. The film offers a uniue perspective of the characters through a unique use of narration and character representation, it also presents a poignant portrayal of human connections with a powerful messages. As a viewer of the film myself, this quote from one of the characters touched me immensely paired with the swelling score by Saini " Insaan ki siraf insaan sunta hai sir, aur insaan ko siraf insaan hee help karta hai " (People only listen to people, and only people can help people). The making of the film was an extensive process, involving four days of shooting, two months of in-depth research, six months of editing, and an additional two months for finalization. Notably, there was a deliberate one-month gap after filming, allowing the team to reflect on their experiences, look at their footage with fresh minds and refine the final product. What adds a humanitarian touch to "Pata Lapata" is its association with the Lakshyam NGO. The film addresses social issues and provides a platform for meaningful storytelling, aligning with the NGO's mission to make a positive impact on society. Bhasin's exclusive screening of "Pata Lapata" at Bennett University not only showcased the brilliance of the film but also offered a glimpse into the director's commitment to his unique sense of cinema and storytelling. The event provided a platform for the audience to appreciate the collaborative efforts of a dedicated team in bringing impactful narratives to the forefront. (The writer is a Semester IV student of BA Journalism and Mass Communication program)

'Opinionated,' a pre-Aalekh event, offered a platform where voices were amplified, ideas were exchanged, and the power of opinion took center stage. Organized by Cerebrum at Bennett University on February 27, 2024, is an extempore oration event designed to celebrate the power of opinion and its impact on shaping the world we live in today.

In moving with the times of Artificial Intelligence, the Times School of Media (TSOM) at Bennett University came together with Russia’s Innopolis University to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that would officiate the launch of a collaborative international AI-driven research lab at TSOM.The MoU and the promise of innovative advancements and knowledge exchange between the two institutions was facilitated by the Dean – Times School of Media Dr. Sanjeev Ratna Singh alongside Assistant Professor Dr. Saurabh Sharma.

The delegates from the University of Innopolis, Russia interacted with students of Times School of Media in a session about the applications of Artificial Intelligence Research on Monday, February 26, 2024. In the session, Iskander Bariev, the head of Advanced Engineering School, Innopolis University highlighted the joint research opportunities for both the universities in the AI domain and talked about practical applications of AI in various fields implemented at the Innopolis University

OP Jindal university secures Sportikon Cricket gold in a heart-pounding super over, triumphing over Manipal university's fierce challenge. The intense battle ended with identical scores, setting the stage for a thrilling and unforgettable climax. Anuj Kumar's leadership and Vansh Tiwari's MVP performance marked the team's resilience in clinching victory, while Manipal's captain, Chaitanya Singh, looks ahead to future gold aspirations. A cricketing spectacle etched in memory, this finale showcased skill, determination, and the spirit of competition.

Sportikon Day 3 witnessed fierce chess battles as universities displayed strategic prowess in 4v4 matches. OP Jindal claimed victory, with Amity securing second and Bennett as the second runner-up. The tournament showcased thrilling encounters, including Amity's dominant quarter-final, OP Jindal's tiebreaker triumph, and Bennett's strong third-place finish. Captains expressed satisfaction, with OP Jindal's Nihshank Upadhyay noting the team's exceptional performance. Udlakshaya Raina, OP Jindal's winning table, highlighted the team effort. The event highlighted chess's rising prominence in university sports.

The commencement of Squash on day two of Sportikon grabbed the attention of students at Bennett University. There was intense competition in the Men's Singles Squash match, however, the number of participating teams was only four although they managed to put off a great game. The game started with a powerful match between Amity University and Op Jindal, where Jindal started by creating dominance on Amity

Day 2 at Sportikon 2024, hosted by Bennett University, saw university teams clashing on the courts, striving for victory to get into the upcoming quarter finals. In the opening match, Ashoka University displayed dominance against Shiv Nadar University, securing a comprehensive victory with a 6-0 win in singles and a 6-1 sweep in doubles. Vaibhav Jain and Arya Shah from Ashoka showcased impressive shot-making, with Jain expressing satisfaction in his triumph.

By Aryamaan Jit Singh Bawa In a pioneering initiative among media schools across Asia, the Times School of Media , Bennett University , will launch an international Artificial Intelligence ( AI ) Research Lab on February 26, 2024. This will be in collaboration with the reputed Innopolis University (IU) of Russia. A delegation of high-ranking scientists and professors will visit the Bennett University campus on February 26 to sign a memorandum of understanding, interact with students and talk about AI-related start-ups. The lab will focus on collaborative research projects, interdisciplinary research papers, and Faculty-led initiatives, including webinars and conferences. This research lab will be situated in N Block ((NLA 314), the university’s academic block. It will present the BU family a valuable opportunity for all departments to explore new research areas and learn about the latest technologies in AI and their applications across diverse fields. The IU specialises in computer science , information technology and robotics. Established in 2012, it aims to foster innovation and technological advancement in these fields. In less than a decade, the university, which stands 13th among the IT universities in Russia and is 21st on the Forbes rankings of Russian universities, has successfully commercialised several products which include driverless cars, trucks, surveillance drones, pharma products and material design projects. Nobel Laureate in Physics Professor Sir Konstantin Kostya’ Novoselov is part of their research team. The AI lab, too, boasts of an impressive leadership profile which includes the likes of Dr Ramil Kuleev , Director of the Institute of Artificial Intelligence at IU whose expertise lies in developing innovative AI solutions, with a focus on leveraging R&D outcomes for business benefits. As a project manager and team leader, Kuleev brings extensive technical knowledge, holding a PhD in Mathematics and Computer Science. His skills include machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing. Besides him, Prof Iskander Bariev, Deputy Director and head of the Advanced Engineering School of IU will lend his weight to the project with his expertise in condensed matter physics. For BU, officiating Vice-Chancellor Ajith Abraham, a prolific researcher in Artificial Intelligence domain with over 1,400 research publications to his credit, will add muscle to the venture and ground it in sincere research projects. Last but not the least, brightening up the AI research halo of the lab will be TSOM’s Dean Dr Sanjeev Ratna Singh, one of India’s leading digital broadcast leaders with over 23 years’ experience as a journalist, Editor and multimedia content producer in Digital, TV and Print who is now powering media academics with his rich experience as an industry expert. (The writer is a Semester IV student of BA Journalism and Mass Communication programme)

Day two of Sportikon witnessed a thrilling quarter finals with 5 cricket matches, showcasing outstanding performances and nail-biting moments. Between Manipal University and Bennett University, Manipal chose to bat after winning the toss and went on to win by 35 runs. Manay Kataria's exceptional performance earned him the MVP title.

By Radhika Gupta The cast of upcoming Netflix series Maamla Legal Hai visited Bennett University on Friday. Ravi Kishen , the popular actor known for his contribution to Bollywood , Telugu and Bhojpuri cinema with a portfolio of 700 films, and also the BJP MP from Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, enthralled the students with his engaging and inspirational talk. “The key is to come join the Indian film industry and start working. It is a huge industry where a lot of work is happening and we are even building a film city here in UP itself. India makes the largest number of films worldwide which is almost 1000 films a year,” Kishen said, addressing the aspiring actors at Bennett. Actors Ravi Kishen and Nidhi Bisht at BU The trailer of his upcoming Maamla Legal Hai which is a courtroom comedy releasing on March 1, 2024 on Netflix, was played at the event to general applause and laughter. Speaking about the series, the actor said, “through the show, you will get to understand the lives of legal advisors, their fight for survival, ambitions and ways they earn money. Each episode covers true cases from district court,” he added. Kishen also shared his struggles in getting a break in Bollywood, managing politics and acting simultaneously and his dedication towards helping the people of his Lok Sabha constituency Gorakhpur. The event was organised by BU's Times School of Media. Popular social media influencer and actor Nidhi Bisht is also a part of the upcoming series cast and attended the event. "Since school, I knew somewhere deep down that I wanted to act. However, it took some time for me to follow that inner voice and convince my parents that this was the right choice. Doing acting gigs, theatre shows in colleges like IIT Delhi helped boost my confidence in my acting abilities,” she said. Rahul Pandey, the young director of the series, was present too and shared with the students, his journey thus far. “Till now I have written and directed seven-eight Indian TV shows and my first web series was ‘Nirmal Pathak ki Ghar Wapsi’ that launched on Sony LIV. Shooting Maamla Legal Hai with great actors like Ravi sir was indeed an amazing experience,” he said. The auditorium was jampacked with students and Faculty who asked questions and learnt from the experience of the talented ensemble.

On Day One of Bennett University's Sportikon 2024, the badminton courts took centre stage, teeming with intense competition. Hosted by the dedicated Sports Committee, this event marked a crucial juncture in the university's sporting legacy. Building on the triumph of Sportikon 2023, this edition brought more participants into the arena, promising a day of matches that highlighted sporting expertise and tactical finesse.

By Medhansh Das The first cricket match of Sportikon Day 1 saw Sharda University clash with Amity Law School , with Sharda winning the toss and opting to field first. The first innings saw a total of 113 runs being made with the loss of 5 wickets. Wickets were falling in almost every alternate over with the exception of Pratyush Thakur of Amity Law School, cementing himself and scoring a total of 56 runs not out. Nawaz Ali from Sharda University was the highest wicket taker with 3 wickets in the first innings. “My target was to play all 15 overs, and although the pitch gave was a good challenge, I was succesfull in doing that” said Pratyush Thakur. In the second innings, only four players reached double digit runs with Satyam Yadav scoring 42 runs, the highest from Sharda’s batting order. The second match of the day took place between Bennett University and Ashoka University , with Ashoka winning the toss and opting to bat first. Scoring a total of 103 runs in a 12 over match, the batsmen of Ashoka University had a steady start, with Vatsal Kumar scoring 22 runs, the highest for Ashoka. But to their dismay the partnership of Ashish Mishra and Aryan Pratap of Bennett University scoring 50 and 22 respectively disrupted Ashoka’s flow making them lose the match with a score of 105 with a loss of just 2 wickets and 2 balls to spare.”Has been a while since personally I have scored this many runs, gratefully the target wasn’t that much and we had a good start. All in all it was a team effort” said Ashish Mishra. (The writer is a Semester IV student of the BA Journalism and Mass Communication programme.)

By PRANAVI AMBATI The much-anticipated SPORTIKON 2024 , Bennett University ’s annual inter-university sports festival , commenced with fervour as 1,259 athletes from 51 universities gathered to celebrate athleticism. The inaugural ceremony , held at the P-Block of the Bennett campus, witnessed the competitive spirit that defines collegiate sports . Officiating the inaugural ceremony were Bennett University Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Ajith Abraham, the Chief Operating Officer Mr. Sudhanshu Varma, Sports Officers Dr. Arun Kumar and Mr. Vineet Nehra, and the Deans of the constituent schools at Bennett University. As is customary in Indian culture, the ceremony began with the lighting of the lamp followed by the Ganesh Vandana , with the Bharatnatyam performance paying obeisance to Lord Ganesha. Bennett University Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Ajith Abraham lighting the lamp at the inaugural ceremony of SPORTIKON 2024, joined on stage by the Chief Operating Officer Mr. Sudhanshu Varma (centre), and Sports Officers Dr. Arun Kumar (left) and Mr. Vineet Nehra (right). Photo Courtesy: Maansi Sreejith. In his opening remarks, Bennett University Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Ajith Abraham emphasized the importance of collegiate sporting events. "Sporting events help make one more stronger and resilient in life to face the real world," he said. “This is a golden opportunity for our students to learn from other universities and colleges, gaining knowledge not otherwise taught in the classrooms,” he added, fostering an environment of mutual respect and camaraderie. At the ceremony, the audience was also treated to a mesmerizing cultural extravaganza as students from Bennett University put up a dazzling performance that raised the spirits of all participants. Adding to the energy in the hall was a rousing performance by Rivaaz, the cultural dance club at Bennett University. Photo Courtesy: Maansi Sreejith. In an expression of gratitude to all visiting colleges, Bennett University Chief Operating Officer Mr. Sudhanshu Varma delivered the Vote of Thanks at the inaugural ceremony. He commended the dedication of Sports Officers Dr. Arun Kumar and Mr. Vineet Nehra in ensuring that the 2nd Edition of the annual sports festival saw light of the day on 22nd February, 2024. In acknowledging the importance of rules and the spirit of sportsmanship , Bennett University Sports Committee Secretary Ms. Kamakshi Singh administered the oath. She was joined by the Captains, Vice-Captains, and players present in the auditorium. Thus culminated the Inaugural Ceremony of SPORTIKON 2024. (The writer is a Semester IV student of the BA Journalism and Mass Communication programme.)

In the qualifying matches of cricket, students from Bhagwan Parshuram Institute of Technology (BPIT) faced off against Maharaja Agrasen Institute of Management (MAIMS) in the first match, while Hindu College clashed with OP Jindal Global University in the second match, marking the inaugural day of Sportikon 2.0. In the first encounter, BPIT won the toss and chose to bat, setting a target of 113 for MAIMS