St Aloysius College (Autonomous), Mangaluru in association with its Students Council observed India’s 75th Independence Day in solemnity. Cadets of NCC Army, Navy and Air Wings of the College led by Cadet Manish enhanced the solemnity of the programme with March and grand salute to the national flag. The melodious patriotic songs by the College Choir added to the grandeur and patriotic emotion among the audience.

The Chief Guest for the solemn ceremony was Dr Jenifer Lolita C, Regional Joint Director, Department of Collegiate Education, Mangaluru region. Prof. Harsha Paul, Asst Professor and Dean of Biological Sciences, St Aloysius College, Mangaluru was the guest of honour. Rev Dr Praveen Martis SJ, the Principal, presided over the ceremony. Dr Ratan Mohunta, and Dr Santhosh Goveas, Director and Asst Director, Students’ Council, respectively; Dr Alwyn D’Sa, the Registrar and Gavin Abner Pinto, President of Students’ Council were present on the occasion.

Dr Jennifer Lolita in her address congratulated the College for celebrating Independence Day despite the pandemic. She also said that today’s youth is tomorrow’s future in the making of New India. She motivated the students to give their best to the nation. She also spoke about the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters and leaders to give us Independence.

Prof. Harsha Paul, Dean of Biological Sciences was the chief guest. Speaking on the occasion, Harsha Paul enumerated the issues and concerns that the country has been facing and highlighted the significant role that the youth can play in addressing these concerns. He reminded the audience about the sacrifices made by several young freedom fighters and persuaded the youth to continue to preserve and practice freedom in its true sense. He invited all to continue the great heritage of peace and brotherhood in the country for a better future.

Rev. Dr Praveen Martis, SJ, the Principal, in his presidential address highlighted the contribution of the Mahatma and all other freedom fighters in bringing freedom to our nation. He reminded the audience of the vivid memories of the midnight address of our first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Nehru who posed a challenge to all Indians whether they had the courage to live and take forward the practice of the values of freedom. He reiterated the same pertinent question to the audience and advised all to reflect on the challenge. He recollected the great heritage of our civilization encapsulated in the life and mission of Mahatma Gandhi, values like peace and non-violence which are our great gifts to the world. He advised the youth to show solidarity with all without any distinctions and unite to take efforts to re-establish the great civilization values of India.

The Directors of various blocks, Deans, Heads of departments, members of the faculty and students witnessed the solemn ceremony.

The welcome address was delivered by Gavin Abner Pinto. Ms Aparna Prashanth, Vice President of the Students’ Council expressed sentiments of gratitude to all who had been responsible for the success of the solemn event. Ms Lisha Pereira, member of the Students’ Council compered the event.