The
University Cultural and Events Committee of Uttaranchal University organized
the annual Rising Star competition, an event designed to celebrate and
showcase student talents. This year’s theme embodied the essence of Rise
and Shine, as students participated in singing, dancing, and modeling
competitions. The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries including, Smt
Anuradha Joshi, Vice-Chairperson, Sushila Devi Centre for Professional Studies
and Research, Ms Ankita Joshi, Vice-President, Prof (Dr) Dharam Buddhi, Vice-Chancellor,
Prof (Dr) Rajesh Bahuguna, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Dr Abhishek Joshi, Director- SA
& IT Services, and Prof (Dr) Shravan Kumar, Dean Student Welfare.
The
event opened with a warm welcome by Krishna Gupta, General Secretary of UCEC,
followed by a concept note from Dr. Reeta Rautela, Chairperson of UCEC. Both
speakers emphasized the event's cultural significance and the competitive
spirit it aimed to foster among students.
The
Singing Competition, themed Folk Echoes, celebrated the
diversity of traditional folk music. Participants delivered solo folk
performances, judged by Manish Ghalwan and Jonathan Sahu, both professional
singers and musicians. The judging focused on authenticity, vocal technique,
and cultural significance.
The
Dancing Competition, themed Unbreakable Spirit, saw students express resilience
and determination through powerful solo performances. The judging panel
included Artistic Director and
Founder of KalaYuj India Mr Ashish Negi. He was accompanied by Kartikey Barthwal, Radhika Kumar, and Harshhricha Joshi, all
professional dancers who evaluated participants based on choreography,
expression, and stage presence.
The
Fashion Show, themed Global Cultural Ethnicity, featured
pairs of students modeling outfits that blended global traditions with modern
flair. Judged by Kavya Sati, Miss Uttarakhand 2024 Runner-Up, and Niharika
Singh, Miss Spectacular Teen India 2023, the show celebrated cultural diversity
and creativity.
In
the grand finale, Prof (Dr) Dharam Buddhi commended the students for their performances,
stating, "This competition not only brings out the best in our students
but also celebrates the unity in diversity that makes our university truly
unique." Dr Rajesh Bahuguna emphasized the need for co-curricular
activities in the process of overall development of students.
After
the final performances, the winners were announced by Dean Student Welfare,
Prof (Dr)
Shravan Kumar, to much anticipation and excitement. In the Singing Competition,
Shubhangi captivated the judges with an outstanding folk rendition. Kritika was
crowned UU Rising Dancing Star for an awe-inspiring performance embodying the
Unbreakable Spirit. The Modeling Competition saw Glamorous Diva: Ngazola and
Charismatic Divo: Ayush impress with their stunning portrayal of Global
Cultural Ethnicity. Finally, the coveted titles of Mr. Fresher and Ms. Fresher
were awarded to Mr Ayush and Ms Kritika, respectively, for their exceptional
performances throughout the event.
