Mangaluru: St Joseph Engineering College (SJEC) hosted ‘Milan 2019’, a joint celebration of Onam, Mosaru Kudike and the Nativity of Mary, with great fervour on September 19.
Soorikumeru Govinda Bhat, Senior Yakshagana Artist and Mr Bhojaraj Vamanjoor, Actor, were the special guests.
People within the college campus were welcomed with a colourful “Pookalam” designed by the contingent of Keralite students at the entrance of the college. The management, faculty, staff and students of SJEC gathered at 9.30 AM for a brief Onam celebration. The significance of Onam was presented followed by a symbolic entry of King Mahabali. the lighting of the lamp was followed by traditional Kerala songs and a colourful procession that lead to the Basketball Court of the college where the procession was received with Thiruvaadhira dance.
This was followed by, a brief celebration of Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary and a traditional practice of the pre-preparation for Pili Dance towards Mosaru Kudike celebrations in the evening. A grand ethnic show followed the festivities.
In the evening, Milan 2019, a cultural confluence was organized in the basketball court of the college in the presence of the dignitaries. The colourful dresses celebrating the ethnic diversity of SJEC campus, the majestic Pookalam, traditional music and dances all added to the wonderful and energetic performances of the participants. The talent of SJEC students was on display and the event symbolized the rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Soorikumeru Govinda Bhat spoke from his vast experience in the field of Yakshagana and mentioned the importance of propagating the local culture. He appreciated the college for organizing events like ‘Milan’ which give ample opportunities to the students to showcase their skills.
Bhojaraj Vamanjoor entertained the crowd with his humour and spoke about his experiences in the acting industry. He called on the students to identify their talent and work towards achieving great heights in their area of expertise.
Both these eminent personalities were facilitated during the cultural extravaganza.
The other highlight of the day was the Pili Dance performed by the students of the college. The special attractions of the evening included Mosaru Kudike and Singarimelam (Chende).
The event was coordinated by Eden Sequeira and Poornesh M along with the rest of the members of the cultural committee.
Fr Wilfred Prakash D’Souza, director of SJEC, Fr Rohith D’Costa and Fr Alwyn Richard D’Souza, assistant directors of SJEC, Dr Rio D’Souza, principal of SJEC and Rakesh Lobo, HR Manager of SJEC were also present.
