The 77th Republic Day of India was celebrated with solemnity and patriotic fervour at Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women here on Sunday, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to national values, unity and constitutional ideals.
The celebrations commenced with the unfurling of the National Flag by Dr. T. S. K. Meenakshisundaram, Managing Trustee of the Avinashilingam Education Trust and Chancellor of the University, followed by a ceremonial parade symbolising respect for the sovereignty and integrity of the nation.
The gathering stood in reverence as Vande Mataram was sung, evoking pride and devotion to the motherland.
Reflecting India’s pluralistic ethos, verses from the Bhagavad Gita, the Holy Bible and the Holy Quran were read, underscoring the ideals of harmony, mutual respect and unity in diversity.
Students and faculty rendered the patriotic song “Ethanai jenmangal vandhu pirandaalum Indiyamanninai venduvaney,” composed by poet Sangu Subramaniam and cherished by the institution’s founder Ayya Avinashilingam.
In his Presidential Address, Dr. T. S. K. Meenakshisundaram highlighted the significance of constitutional values and civic responsibility.
Vice Chancellor Dr. V. Bharathi Harishankar spoke on the transformative role of education in a free India, recalling the founding vision of Thiru T. S. Avinashilingam Ayya and linking it to the nation’s journey towards Viksit Bharat.
She appreciated the achievements of NSS, NCC and sports students, and commended faculty members for their performance at the Master’s Athletic Meet.
The Chief Guest, Commodore Seshadri Vasan (Retd.), former officer of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard, spoke on Ayya Avinashilingam’s legacy, Gandhian principles and the importance of self-reliance and youth participation in nation-building.
Celebrations were also held at the satellite campus. About 6,250 students, teaching and non-teaching staff participated.
