Media Release
Mangaluru, Feb 27: St Agnes College (Autonomous) inaugurated its Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Centre in a meaningful ceremony held at the Centenary Auditorium in the Mother Mary Aloysia Block on Friday, February 27. The event marked a significant milestone in the institution’s commitment to rediscovering and preserving India's intellectual and cultural heritage.
The formal inauguration began with a traditional Kannada prayer song, typically sung in rural villages, invoking God's blessings. This was followed by a captivating Bharatanatyam dance performance by the students, showcasing the rich cultural diversity of India. A melodious folk song performance was presented in Kannada, Tulu, and Konkani, bringing alive the essence of the region’s folk traditions.
In a stunning display of India's diverse cultural heritage, students performed various regional dances, including Kangil from South Karnataka, Thiruvadira from Kerala, and Lavani from Maharashtra. The event also highlighted the cultures of the North Eastern states, with students walking the ramp in traditional attire from Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, and Tripura. A series of folk songs sung by the college staff was a special highlight of the programme.
Dr Vishala BK, the coordinator of the IKS Centre, welcomed the gathering and introduced the chief guest and guests of honour. In his address, Vivek Alva, managing trustee of Alva’s Education Foundation and the chief guest of the day, highlighted the often-overlooked history of the North Eastern states and their significant contribution to Indian Knowledge Systems. He also acknowledged the contribution of the Basel Mission to Indian culture and heritage and its ongoing efforts to promote India’s intellectual legacy. He praised the efforts of the Agnes fraternity and emphasised the need for students to explore historical archives to fully appreciate India's diverse cultural heritage.
Prof Dr Indrani Karunasagar, director, R&D, Nitte University and one of the guests of honour, congratulated St Agnes College on this pioneering initiative, stating that the establishment of the IKS Centre is a significant step in recognising the connection between science, philosophy, and Indian knowledge traditions.
Professor Jeddu Ganapathi Bhat, founder of Jeddu Ayurveda Speciality Hospital, Alike, spoke on the deep roots of IKS, which are often overshadowed by spiritual influences. He emphasised the growing relevance of IKS in the modern age, especially in relation to advancements in science and technology.
Sr Dr M Venissa AC, the principal and the president of the programme, in her address called the inauguration a humble beginning in rediscovering and preserving India’s intellectual legacy for future generations. She stressed the importance of promoting IKS to a global audience, aligning it with contemporary needs.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr Sabina D'Souza, assistant professor from the department of business administration. Other distinguished guests included Sr Dr Roopa Rodrigues AC, vice principal; Dr Sabina, IQAC coordinator; and Sr Carmel Rita AC, the administrator of the college.
The event concluded with the formal inauguration of the IKS Centre, followed by an exhibition titled “Roots of Knowledge: India’s Living Heritage” at the Avila Block.