The annual extravaganza of athleticism, creativity, and camaraderie, known as ‘UshMa-24,’ unfolded its vibrant tapestry of events and activities at Usha Martin University from the 7th of February till the 10th of February 2024. The festival, a beacon of celebration and competition, commenced with great enthusiasm as students, faculty, and guests gathered to partake in this grand spectacle.
Under the patronage of the esteemed Vice Chancellor of Usha Martin University, Professor Madhulika Kaushik, ‘Ushma-24’ embarked on its journey of excitement and excellence. In a momentous inauguration ceremony, Professor Kaushik symbolized the indomitable spirit of sportsmanship by igniting the ceremonial torch. Addressing the assembled audience, she articulated the profound significance of the event, highlighting how Usha Martin University is carving its distinct identity not only in academia but also in the realms of sports and culture. She emphasized the pivotal role of sports and cultural pursuits in nurturing holistic development among students, encouraging them to participate wholeheartedly and imbibe the values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.
The Vice Chancellor’s words resonated deeply with the participants, igniting their passion and enthusiasm as they embarked on the exhilarating journey ahead. The festival’s excitement and anticipation permeated the university campus as students eagerly showcased their talents and skills across various activities.
The festival unfolded over four exhilarating days, each brimming with a plethora of events and competitions. The first two days witnessed the battlegrounds come alive with intense sporting competitions catering to various interests and abilities. From the crack of cricket bats to the swift movements on the badminton court, from the strategic manoeuvres of kabaddi to the cerebral challenges of chess, the sporting arena reverberated with the thrill of competition and the spirit of sportsmanship. Additionally, indoor games such as carrom provided respite and enjoyment, while athletic prowess was tested in disciplines like the long jump and races across various categories.
As the sun set on the sporting contests, the spotlight shifted to the cultural domain, with the latter half of the festival dedicated to celebrating the rich tapestry of artistic expression.The program was inaugurated by PadmaShri Awardee Shri Mukund Nayak, a renowned figure globally acclaimed for his folk singing and dancing. Mukund Nayak is a pioneer of the Nagpuri folk dance Jhoomar and a recipient of the Sangeet NatakAkademi Award.He emphasized the importance of maintaining one’s roots and identity, urging the youth to cherish their heritage, language, and culture.
Students took centre stage, mesmerizing the audience with captivating performances ranging from soul-stirring musical renditions to electrifying dance routines. The stage became a canvas for creativity as students showcased their dramatic flair through poetry recitations and other forms of theatrical expression. Each performance was a testament to the university community’s diverse talents and cultural heritage, fostering a sense of pride and unity among all present.
The fest concluded on Saturday after a four-day extravaganza of various sports and cultural competitions and programs for students. In the closing ceremony, the renowned singer Shalini Dubey from the state mesmerized the audience with her melodious voice. At the same time, her music band captivated everyone, enchanting the audience with a blend of folk music and Bollywood songs.
The festival provided a platform for students to showcase their talents and fostered a camaraderie and celebration spirit. It served as a reminder of the importance of sports and culture in the holistic development of individuals and communities.
As the curtains drew to a close on yet another memorable edition of ‘Ushma-24,’ echoes of laughter, cheers, and applause lingered in the air as a poignant reminder of the unforgettable memories and enduring friendships forged amidst the jubilant celebrations. With hearts full of nostalgia and anticipation, the university community awaited the dawn of another year, brimming with promise and possibility, where the spirit of ‘Ushma’ would once again illuminate their lives with its radiant warmth.
