left to right :TNLU (Tamil Nadu National Law University) and HNLU Volley Ball Teams with Mr. Jai Prakash Nautiyal, Dronacharya Awardee & Chief National Coach, Indian Para Shooting, Guest of Honour and Mr. Anuj Sharma, Padma Shri Awardee & Member, Chhattisgarh State Legislative Assembly Chief Guest and Prof. (Dr.) V.C. Vivekanandan.
TFP Bureau, Raipur, October 19, 2024: The Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU) is in high spirits as it launches its annual cultural, literary, and sports festival, COLOSSUS, along with the International Model United Nations and Youth Parliament (IMUNYP) 2024. The event kicked off today and will span three days, filled with a variety of activities designed to engage and inspire participants.
The inaugural session featured esteemed guests, including Mr. Jai Prakash Nautiyal, Dronacharya Awardee and Chief National Coach of Indian Para Shooting, as the Guest of Honour, and Mr. Anuj Sharma, Padma Shri Awardee and Member of the Chhattisgarh State Legislative Assembly, as the Chief Guest.
In his opening remarks, Prof. (Dr.) V.C. Vivekanandan, Vice Chancellor of HNLU, explained the significance of the name “COLOSSUS,” which embodies grandeur and excellence. He drew connections between this theme and the importance of creativity in education, referencing Sir Kenneth Robinson’s theory. “Colossus serves as a platform for creative cultural expression,” he stated, emphasizing the African Tribal concept of ‘UBUNTU’—“I am what I am because of who we all are”—to highlight the value of community and collective growth achieved through such festivals.
Mr. Jai Prakash Nautiyal praised the HNLU community’s deep respect for teachers, noting that this reverence is foundational to success. He shared personal anecdotes from his extensive career as a para-shooting coach, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities. “Kheloge toh khiloge” (if you play, you’ll excel), he encouraged, motivating students to embrace every chance for growth.
Chief Guest Mr. Anuj Sharma celebrated Chhattisgarh’s rich cultural heritage, linking it to Indian traditions, particularly the legacy of Lord Ram. He commended HNLU students for their awareness of rights and their ability to leverage platforms like MUN for personal and intellectual development. “Such experiences lead to unexpected opportunities,” he noted, urging participants to fully engage with the fest.
Dr. Vipan Kumar, Registrar in charge, welcomed over 600 participants from fourteen universities and colleges, stressing the importance of leisure, culture, and art in enriching lives.
Dr. Ankit Singh, Faculty Convener of COLOSSUS-IMUNYP ’24, outlined the festival’s array of events designed to challenge and showcase creativity, intellect, and talent. Summer Veer Shukla, Secretary General of IMUN-YP, introduced the Model United Nations concept, emphasizing its role in developing young leaders’ diplomatic skills and fostering collaboration.
Dr. Deepak Kumar Srivastava, Dean (UG) & Member of the Board of Advisors for Colossus-IMUNYP, also contributed to the opening ceremony, setting a vibrant tone for the festival ahead.
