DLC SUPVA celebrates Onam with Grandeur, Tradition, and Togetherness

Rohtak, September 9, 2025: As a rare occurrence of celebrating south Indian culture, the Faculty of Planning & Architecture at Dada Lakhmi Chand State University of Performing and Visual Arts (DLC SUPVA) hosted a magnificent celebration of Onam, blending cultural splendor, traditional fervor, and joyous participation by both students and faculty.

The day began with the Lighting of the Ceremonial Lamp, attended by Registrar Dr. Gunjan Malik Manocha, Head of Planning & Architecture Ar. Ajay Bahu Joshi, Dean Academic Affairs & Controller of Examinations Dr. Ajay Kaushik, Proctor Mahesh Thothathil, and Dean Students’ Welfare Vinay Kumar, along with senior faculty members. The rendition of the University Kulgeet lent a solemn dignity to the occasion.

Onam, the harvest festival of Kerala, commemorates the homecoming of the noble King Mahabali and symbolizes prosperity, inclusiveness, and harmony. It is celebrated with devotion and joy, bringing together communities across India and beyond, making it one of the most significant cultural festivals of the country.

The celebration at DLC SUPVA captured this spirit with cultural performances, traditional dances, and dramatizations by students narrating the legend of King Mahabali and reflecting the ethos of unity and abundance.

A special highlight was the series of Onam games, including Tug of War, Pookalam (Flower Rangoli), and Rope Swing, which created an atmosphere of camaraderie and festive cheer. Faculty and students later enjoyed Payasam, a traditional sweet dish symbolizing the sweetness of shared culture and collective joy.

The merriment continued with Uriyadi (pot-breaking), Lemon and Spoon Race, and Sack Race, where faculty members joined students, fostering inclusivity and a rare spirit of togetherness.

In her address, Registrar Dr. Gunjan Malik Manocha said, “Onam at DLC SUPVA is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of India’s syncretic culture that unites traditions of the North and the South. When students in Haryana celebrate a festival rooted in Kerala’s heritage with such devotion, it reaffirms the idea of India as a tapestry of diverse yet interconnected traditions. This cultural confluence enriches our university and inspires our students to appreciate unity in diversity.”

Reflecting on the success of the program, Head of Planning & Architecture, Ar. Ajay Bahu Joshi, remarked: “It was truly heartening to see our students embracing Onam with such enthusiasm. Beyond being a festival, Onam is a philosophy of inclusiveness, and today’s celebration brought alive that very spirit on our campus. At DLC SUPVA, such celebrations remind us of the importance of respecting diverse cultures while nurturing bonds of harmony within our academic community.”

The event concluded in a jubilant atmosphere, reinforcing the profound message of Onam — that harmony, inclusiveness, and collective spirit are the true hallmarks of prosperity.