Summary
After three long years, the clubs and societies of Jadavpur University came together to organise “Ibtida”
The fourth year of Ibtida was undeniably the biggest ever, as the number of events went up to around nineteen, bringing together hundreds of students, from all over the city and beyond
Beautiful lights and festoons in the air, soulful music, and the wafting smell of delicious food, as one walks through the vibrant stalls towards the Open Air Theatre. Once there, one cannot decide whether to sit back and enjoy the film screenings or groove to the beats and so much more. Complete with art and photography exhibitions and a pop-up, Ibtida was a treat to all the senses, soothing one’s soul, enthralling it. That is Ibtida truly living up to its tagline “where art unites”.
After three long years, the clubs and societies of Jadavpur University came together to organise “Ibtida”, the annual club-organised cultural festival of the university which is an entirely student-led initiative. The fourth year of Ibtida was undeniably the biggest ever, as the number of events went up to around nineteen, which brought together hundreds of students, from all over the city and beyond to showcase their talent along with multiple mutual collaborations with popular brands all over the country . The entire Jadavpur University campus turned into a vibrant mixture of youthful joy, dancing and humming to the beats of Noor (Duet vocals), Sargam (Eastern Band), Atish (Western Band) and Takraar (Rap battle). With the symphony that the participants created, the crowds made an indescribable mark in the lives of all that were present. Various emotions and a collective resistance to oppression was clearly evident in the shortlisted films of Chaalchitra (Film Making).
Source: Jadavpur University
The energy and enthusiasm of the performers in Safarnama (Eastern Group Dance), Raqs (Western Group Dance) and Taabir (Duet Dance), got everyone swaying to the Ibtida euphoria. A much needed thrill along with a contemplative space was constructed through the events where words and actions shook hearts and baffled minds- Lalkaar (Street Play), Arezu (Mono Act), Khayallat (Bhasa Dibosh Trilingual Debate), Afsana (Microtale) and Lafz(Original Slam Poetry). Thoughts dwindled and minds delved into the art of aesthetically pleasing colours, shapes, figures and patterns as the audiences’ eyes found the submissions of- Aftaab (Art Exhibition), Iztiraar (Wall Painting) and Mukhtalif (T-shirt Painting). These were events where the actions and creations of the artists were seen in different light and in different dimensions by each viewer. On a similar note, works of art, colourful design and innovative, enthralling clothes of the brilliant confident participants were seen during Numaish (Cultural Theme Walk).
Source: Jadavpur University
It does not end there. Every evening, participants stayed back and more students joined the festival to enjoy the showcase performances, be it classical dance showcases, a performance from SVF and the star of the final night, EPR Iyer, who dazzled the audiences with his incredible performance. The collective euphoria felt palpable, and the energy of the enthusiastic crowd truly made Ibtida a festival to remember.
Last updated on 27 Feb 2023
