S. Vishnu Sharma
Life in the college does not mean studies alone, but also fun and frolick. Milan, the annual cultural festival at SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST) to take place from 5 March onwards seem to prove that.
Life at a campus must be a healthy balance between academics and enjoyment, says T. Mythili, Director of Student Affairs at SRMIST. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, she reminds. That is how the concept of Milan came into existence. ‘We want students to bring out their hidden talents, it may be signing, dancing or any other thing, Milan will be the right place to showcase that.’
Conducting such a large scale event is not easy. Much goes behind the stage even before the main event begins. First two months is for planning of what are the events are to be conducted, how are they to be conducted, who are the celebrities to be roped in. The other two months go for implementing the decisions.
SRMIST
Student involvement is high at every stage, says Mythili. The fest always fall in proximity to World Womens Day, we have been inviting women achievers as chief guests on the day of the beginning for the last two years as a mark of signifying women empowerment. Previous year well-know actress Shruti Haasan was invited, this year another popular actress Rakulpreet Sigh is being invited.
There is a take home message for every student in this event. The student turnover this year is expected to cross 40,000, previous year about 37,000 students have attended the student fest. Students who have a flair for cooking can prove their mettle in cookery. Students with a fine knack for dramatics can prove themselves in Mime and Variety Show.
SRMIST
Portrait making, painting are among the contests for those who are able in creative arts. These are not all, more than 100 events will be held as a part of the festival. The event has something to offer for students also.
This is a fine opportunity for students also sharpen their communication skills, organising abilities, team management techniques. Those who show their abilities in organising a large scale event learn a lot and often tend to perform better at other venues like placement interviews owing to high confidence levels, better presentation skills.
This event has evolved over the years into a one of the largest college fests in India. Previous year Milan won the recognition of being the fifth largest college fest in India last year from its earlier position of being the sixth largest event. We expect this to move ahead in the years to come, says Mythili.
Milan has witnessed substantial popularity on social media also. Instagram account of Milan had 10,000 followers previous year, this rose to become 15,000 this year. Aim is to become better as time moves ahead, says Mythili.