Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 18: St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, hosted its national-level intercollegiate student fest, Agnofest 2026, under the inspiring theme “Aikyam – One Thread, A Million Stories.” The student-led fest aimed to recognise and celebrate student talent while bringing together young minds from different institutions on a common platform.
The gala unveiling of the theme Aikyam, meaning unification, was held on September 17, 2026. The fest featured two categories of competitions — one for pre-university students and another for undergraduate students. The evening also witnessed Nataranga, an open-category dance competition that added vibrancy and colour to the celebrations.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Lavita Monisha Lobo, playback singer, songwriter and Radio Jockey, as the chief guest. A Mangalurean by birth and currently based in Chennai, she has earned recognition for her musical talents, including the A R Rahman Scholarship at KM College of Music and Technology, the best western classical singer award, and the best Konkani vocalist – golden voice of Mangaluru award.
The chief guest was welcomed with pomp and splendour. Among the dignitaries present were the joint secretary of St Agnes College, Sr Dr Marie Prem D’Souza; administrator Sr M Carmel Rita AC; principal Sr Dr M Venissa AC; vice principal Sr Dr M Roopa Rodrigues AC; coordinator of the Postgraduate Centre of Studies and superior of St Agnes Convent, Sr Dr M Vinora AC; staff coordinator Dr Meera Devi B, associate professor of History; and co-oordinator Shanthi Nazareth, Department of Secretarial Practice. PTA members, faculty and the entire student body were also present.
Dr Meera welcomed the gathering, while the president Nabhan Muzaffar of the Student Council presented an overview of the fest. A major attraction of the inaugural ceremony was the Aikyam theme dance, which beautifully portrayed India’s cultural diversity and unity through a blend of traditional dance forms.
The specially crafted Aikyam theme song, conceptualised, choreographed and curated by the talented students of the institution.
Addressing the gathering, Lavita Monisha Lobo congratulated the staff and students for organising the well-planned event. Appreciating the strength and unity displayed by the student leaders, she emphasised the importance of extracurricular activities in helping young people develop skills essential for the world of work. She stressed that life is a continuous journey of learning and growth and encouraged students to pursue their areas of interest, viewing failures as stepping stones to success.
The highlight of the inaugural ceremony was the unveiling of the magnificent Aikyam trophy by the chief guest along with the dignitaries on stage.
Principal Sr Dr M Venissa AC congratulated the students and staff for their collaborative efforts in organising the national-level fest. She highlighted the experiential learning opportunities such events provide and said that they encourage students to take initiative and develop leadership skills. Shanthi Nazareth proposed the vote of thanks.
A total of 27 colleges participated in the various competitions, making the fest a vibrant celebration of talent, creativity and healthy competition. The day concluded with the valedictory ceremony, where Deepika Appaiah, entrepreneur, founder member of the NGO Mind and Matter, and alumna of St Agnes College, was the chief guest and distributed the prizes.
At the undergraduate level, the overall championship was won by Institute of Aviation Studies, Srinivas University while Carmel College, Nuvem, Goa emerged as the runners-up. At the pre-university level, St Aloysius PU College secured the overall championship, with Alvas’ College, Moodbidri as runners-up.
In the open-category Nataranga dance competition, Team Nritya Assemble emerged as the champions, while Team Lumi secured the runners-up position.
Addressing the gathering, Deepika Appaiah fondly recalled her experiences as an alumna and credited St Agnes College with playing an important role in shaping her personality. She congratulated the winners and emphasised the significance of extracurricular activities in making education more meaningful and holistic.
Agnofest 2026 thus brought together talent, creativity and culture on one platform, truly reflecting the spirit of its theme— Aikyam: One Thread, A Million Stories.