Mangaluru: St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) hosted a vibrant national-level fest for pre-university students at LF Rasquinha Hall, LCRI Block, on Monday. The event drew more than 2,200 participants from 64 colleges across Karnataka and neighbouring states, showcasing talent, creativity, and academic excellence.

Inspiring inaugural ceremony

The fest was inaugurated by Dr Kanyana Sadashiva Shetty, an alumnus, entrepreneur, and industrialist, who expressed deep gratitude to his alma mater. “I never get tired of coming back to this college. It’s my pride institution. Whatever I am today is because of Aloysius,” he said. He lauded the university’s focus on holistic education and urged students to balance academics with active participation in campus activities, emphasising morality as a guiding value.

Indian film actor and alumnus Raj Deepak Shetty was the guest of honour and described St Aloysius as a magical place that shaped his journey from a backbencher to a successful artist. “Once an Aloysian, always an Aloysian,” he declared, motivating students to chase their dreams with confidence.

Presiding over the event, Vice Chancellor Dr Praveen Martis SJ inspired students to embrace challenges. Quoting Dr APJ Abdul Kalam’s phrase “FAIL – First Attempt in Learning”, he reminded students to persevere and strive for excellence in all endeavours.

Honouring achievers and records

The fest also recognised outstanding individuals for exceptional achievements.

  • Apeksha Kottary, assistant professor in the School of Commerce, was honoured for her record-setting explosion box themed “Incredible India”, acknowledged by the India Book of Records and Exclusive World Records.

  • Remona Evette Pereira, a Bharatanatyam dancer and recipient of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, was celebrated for her 170-hour non-stop dance performance.

  • Adi Swaroopa, a BA psychology student, received recognition for her memory skills and artistic talents, holding eight world records and contributing to a Guinness World Record mosaic project.

    • Valedictory ceremony and closing highlights

    The valedictory ceremony featured Dr Guru Tej and Dr Francisca Tej, founders of Wisdom Education, as chief guests. Dr Francisca Tej emphasised the importance of critical thinking and a progressive mindset in today’s competitive world.

    The closing ceremony was presided over by Fr Melwin Joseph Pinto S, rector of St Aloysius Educational Institutions, in the presence of Dr Alwyn D’Sa, Dr Ronald Nazareth, Fr Vishwas Misquith SJ, and fest coordinators.

    Competition results

    Over 36 competitions were held during the fest, with St Aloysius Gonzaga Pre-university College, Mangaluru, securing first place overall. SDM Pre-university College, Ujire, won second place and also claimed the top position in the cultural festival competition. Kanachur Mahila Pada Purva secured second place in the cultural category.

    The event concluded with vote of thanks by co-coordinator Dr Dinesh Nayak and student union president Anson Rego, while students Jenicia and Alia Khan compered the programme.