Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 30: The Cultural Committee, in association with the Student Council of Yenepoya Institute of Arts, Science, Commerce and Management (YIASCM), organised 'Aagosham' Traditional Day 2026 at Kulur Campus to celebrate India’s cultural diversity and provide students with an opportunity to express their cultural identities. The event aimed to promote cultural awareness, encourage inclusivity, foster a sense of unity, and provide a platform for students to showcase their talents and traditions.
The programme was graced by Tulunada Chakravarthi Arjun Dev, actor, director, and singer, as the chief guest, and Remona Evette Pereira, Bharatanatyam dancer and World Record holder, as the guest of honour. The other dignitaries on the dais were Chaitra Shetty, actor, Prof Jeevan Raj, principal, YIASCM, Narayan Sukumar, vice principal, YIASCM, Neekshitha Shetty, chairperson, Cultural Committee, and Student Council members Ayishah Azzah, Aman Thahani, Sayed Fazil, and Shrutha. Faculty members, support staff, and students were present on this occasion.
The programme began with a welcome dance performed by the students, showcasing the diverse cultures and traditions of India. The dignitaries then officially inaugurated Aagosham – Traditional Day. This was followed by a prayer recited by Raihan, setting a solemn tone for the day’s festivities. The dignitaries on the dais ceremonially lit the lamp, symbolising the auspicious beginning of the programme. The welcome address was delivered by Priya, who warmly welcomed the dignitaries and the audience.
The chief guest, Tulunada Chakravarthi Arjun Dev, addressed the gathering and emphasised the importance of preserving and celebrating traditional practices and heritage. He highlighted the role of such celebrations in keeping customs alive and passing them on to future generations.
The guest of honour, Remona Evette Pereira, shared an inspiring message with the students, encouraging them to utilise every opportunity that comes their way and to approach life with confidence and determination so that they would have no regrets later in life. Her message encouraged students to recognise the value of opportunities and make meaningful use of them in their personal and professional journeys.
Prof Jeevan Raj, principal, YIASCM, and president of the programme, highlighted the significance of Traditional Day in fostering awareness, unity, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging among students. He also emphasised the importance of appreciating India’s diversity and respecting different identities. The chief guest and the guest of honour were felicitated in recognition of their accomplishments and contributions.
Pinakini Shetty, assistant professor, department of commerce, compered the inaugural programme, and the vote of thanks was proposed by Sayed Fazil, cultural secretary, bringing the inaugural ceremony to a graceful close.
Soon after the inaugural programme, a few clips from Arjun Dev’s recently released Tulu movie Toss were screened for the audience. The film crew was felicitated on the occasion in recognition of their contribution to the Tulu film industry. The screening added a special dimension to the celebrations and provided the audience with an opportunity to appreciate regional cinema.
The celebrations continued with a vibrant array of traditional performances and activities, providing students and staff with an opportunity to showcase their attire, talents, and creativity. The performances created an atmosphere of enthusiasm and togetherness, allowing the campus community to celebrate India’s diversity.
The programme concluded on a festive and memorable note, reinforcing the values of appreciation, inclusivity, unity, and respect for diverse identities among the YIASCM community.