Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women conducted its annual Lighting Ceremony 2026 on its campus on March 27, marking a significant academic and cultural tradition.
The ceremony witnessed the participation of more than 107 doctoral scholars and over 2,100 undergraduate and postgraduate students. The event symbolised the transmission of knowledge and values to a new generation of women scholars.
The programme began with the lighting of the “Mother Lamp,” representing the eternal flame of wisdom. The lamp was lit by chief guest C.A. Nalini Padmanabhan, Director of Canara Bank and Chairperson of Infinite Seva Centre.
As the flame was shared among thousands of students, the ceremony reflected the institution’s commitment to imparting knowledge and values. Chancellor T.S.K. Meenakshisundaram presided over the event and administered a pledge based on the ideals of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Swami Vivekananda.
Vice Chancellor V. Bharathi Harishankar and Registrar H. Indu were present.
In her address, C.A. Nalini Padmanabhan urged students to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and emphasised the inner strength of women to bring about societal change. She encouraged students to pursue their ambitions with confidence and highlighted that true success lies in integrity, courage, and compassion. Earlier, Vijayalakshmi, Dean (Academics), delivered the welcome address, and N.V. Amutha Devi, Assistant Professor and Head (in-charge) of Psychology, proposed the vote of thanks. The programme concluded with the National Anthem.
