6 September, 2013, Bhasha Utsav Special Edition

Commix_BhashaUtsav13_1MCN_Layout 1 06-09-2013 PM 03:46 Page 1
6 September, 2013, Bhasha Utsav Special Edition Published by the Departmaent of Media Studies
Commix_BhashaUtsav13_1MCN_Layout 1 06-09-2013 PM 03:46 Page 2
CELEBRATING LANGUAGE AND DIVERSITY
2
“One race. Many cultures. One place.”
This quote by Gefforey M. Gluckman aptly captures the diversity
found at Christ University perfectly.
Col (Dr) Father Thomas C. Mathew
addressed the gathering and spoke
about how language is an essential
thread that unites people.
Bhasha Utsav is about understand-
I
deep rooted in language.
He further spoke of the diversity
found in our country in terms of languages and ethnicity. “Our University is a microcosm of the country.
To acknowledge this, Bhasha Utsav
celebrates the diversity and our cultural strength ”, said Father VC.
Father VC was ecstatic to see the response and liveliness across the
campus. “Language means happiness and mutual learning and it is
this diversity that brings us together.
By keeping in mind the motto the
university celebrates this diversity
and myriad of languages found
here”, concluded Father VC.
ing languages and celebrating diversity. Christ University provides a
platform for the students from different cultures to come together and
celebrate their diversity. He elaborated that it is language that connects all and emphasized that one’s
mother tongue is the link which unifies us with our cultures. “Language
is the process of creation and language is created by centuries of experience”, added Father VC.
Our culture is an integral part of us
and on the eve of Bhasha Utsav,
Christ University gives the international students as well as students
from different parts of India to
showcase their cultures. Emphasizing on the motto of Christ University
– “Excellence and Service”, Father
V.C said that the university stands
for creating knowledge which is
Photographer: Johnson
-
Meena G. Iyer
KALEIDOSCOPE OF CULTURES
t was during the late 90s that the
Christ University family began
to grow with students from
across borders panning different
states and countries. This step was
taken for the sole purpose to initiate
and encourage cross cultural education.
The knowledge of various cultures
amongst the students was reducing
to a point of indifference. Hence,
Bhasha Utsav was initiated in 2005
to create awareness about the various cultures across the globe. The
celebrations are intentionally loud
to enhance the vibrancy of the Indian folk instruments which is a
major attraction. It fulfils the objective of introducing the students to
different cultures in the Indian as
well as international traditions.
This is the ninth edition of the fest
and it has grown immensely ever
since its initiation. Every language
department of Christ University
has contributed to the success of
Bhasha Utsav.
Dr. Krishnaswami stated that
Bhasha Utsav is the celebration of
one’s ethnicity. Eventually, ethnic
day was brought together with the
Bhasha Utsav. No culture can be
showcased without their traditional
attire. It is a kaleidoscope of all cultures across regions and continental
boundaries. Ethnic Day promotes a
sense of belongingness to their cultural roots. The students should
maintain the spirit not just for one
day but throughout the entire year.
The tradition should be passed
down to future generations upholding the Christ flag.
Cross cultural food, rituals, faith
and beliefs are celebrated all over
the campus. In order to encourage
the students to develop a curiosity
of various cultures, artists based in
different locations from the fields of
theatre, films and music are invited
every year. Kannada film super
star, Puneeth Rajkumar graced the
Photographer: Lijo Thhomas
occasion as the Chief Guest this
year. The university has earlier welcomed celebrities like the music director Hamsalekha, actor Jaggesh
and film director Girsh Kasaravalli.
Dr. Krishnaswami encouraged the
students by saying, “You all should
reach your goal in technological
achievement, management achievement and scientific achievement.
But at the same time make sure you
are rooted in the soil of your culture.”
BHASHA UTSAV
Vilitha Irene Pereira
Commix_BhashaUtsav13_1MCN_Layout 1 06-09-2013 PM 03:46 Page 3
3
THE EDITORS SPEAK ...
Yet another colourful and vibrant edition of Bhasha
Utsav unfurled on the grounds of Christ University
where students from different corners of the world came
together to celebrate their ethnicity and culture. Commix 2013 is the official newsletter for Bhasha Utsav at
the Christ University. This is a real time newsletter
brought out while the event was in progress. It has been
a custom of the 1MS Communication students to showcase the enigma that is Bhasha Utsav. Under the mentorship of the faculty, this tradition is being carried on
since it was initiated nine years ago.
We are proud to present this year’s Commix, a 12-page
detail of the extravaganza. Bhasha Utsav aims at celebrating the diversity and ethnicity that adorns the Christ
University campus. In this time and age, where life is in
the fast lane, this event provides a platform for the students to take a break and reconnect with their customs
and culture. Not just a day to showcase the ethnic wear,
above all it is a celebration of language.
The Department of Languages lead by Dr. Krishnaswami, is the anchor behind this spectacular gala.
Every year they work inexorably and unremittingly to
put forth the potpourri that reflects the values of Christ
University. Bhasha Utsav promotes the multi-lingual
and multi-cultural essence of the global world. It widens
our knowledge regarding the ethos of fellow states and
nations.
A core team consisting of reporters, photographers, editors, designers and printers was constituted. We
worked diligently and relentlessly at putting together
this visual treat within the preset deadlines. Putting our
best foot forward to formulate and keep up the long
maintained tradition.
For all those who may have missed the festivities and
those who want to relive those joy filled moments, the
entire team of 1MS Communication present to you
Commix 2013. Happy Reminiscence!
BHASHA UTSAV
Editorial Team (MS in Communication)
Commix_BhashaUtsav13_1MCN_Layout 1 06-09-2013 PM 03:46 Page 4
4
I
MANY NATIONS, ONE WORLD
t’s a thing of awe and wonder to
see people from over 15 countries representing their nations
in full flair and attire. Men and
women of Afghanistan, Democratic
Republic of Congo, Kenya,
Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, Tibet, Ethiopia,
Chad, Ivory Coast, Mauritania,
Thailand, South Korea, USA,
Canada, Maldives, Angola, Bhutan
and of course India among other
countries marched to represent
their culture in the Bhasha Utsav
2013 inaugural procession.
Accompanied by the vivacious and
thundering beat of the drums, they
proudly walked from Block 2 to the
Audi Block led by Honourable Col.
Dr. Fr. Thomas C. Mathew and
other dignitaries. This massive
amalgamation of people got together, in the manner and spirit of
true Christites. They found similarities in their disparity even as they
displayed their brilliant colours and
garments.
Sheikh, a resident of Ivory Coast
truly represented the spirit of this
cultural extravaganza when she
said, “I feel good representing my
country but I already know a lot
about it so it is also interesting to
find out about other cultures.”
A representative of Afghanistan,
Safiullah Naseri mirrored his emotions in the joy that he displayed
standing for his nation, he said, “I
am learning a lot by interacting
with people from
other cultures and I
feel really
h a p p y
wearing
my cultural
clothes.”
The intenPhotographer: Arulnidhi
sity of the
procession rose higher as they progressed towards their destination.
They displayed their heritage and
embodied the true purpose of a
procession – to go forth with heads
held high.
usical performances are
seen as an auspicious beginning to any event and
what better than a pulsating and a
beautiful performance to lead the
inaugural procession. Murthy
getic ensemble that sets the tone
and mood for Bhasha Utsav. The
performers lead the procession and
had all the students entranced and
moving to the beats. Mr Yuvraj
who accompanied the
Naiyandi group from Krishnagiri,
Tamil Nadu, kickstarted energetic
the procession from Block II to the
auditorium with Naiyandi Melam.
The procession comprised of Christities decked in their traditional attire and lending an air of
celebration and happiness.
Playing traditional music of Tamil
Nadu, Naiyandi Melam is an ener-
team from Krishnagiri said that
performing in Christ University for
the past five years has given them a
lot of encouragement and support
which motivates them to continue
spreading knowledge of their folk
art. He says that the enthusiastic response from the audience is what
truly gives them their due.
Naiyandi Melam is a traditional
folk performance of Tamil Nadu. A
typical Naiyandi Melam comprises
of two double-reed nadaswaram,
one or two thavil which is a barrel
drum, a tambukku which is a kettle
d r u m
played with
leather
straps,
a
pambai and
an urumi.
This is perf o r m e d
generally
for festive
occasions.
Throughout
the whole
Photographer: Arulnidhi p e r f o r m ance, they quite easily kept the energy of everyone at the peak. The
vibrancy of Indian culture was personified by these performances and
gave all the students a lot to look
forward to.
r
M
Collin Ferdie Dsilva
NAIYANDI MELAM - PERSONIFYING ENERGY
BHASHA UTSAV
Meghana B.S
Commix_BhashaUtsav13_1MCN_Layout 1 06-09-2013 PM 03:47 Page 5
D
DUFFMUTTU, A TRIBUTE TO ISLAMIC HEROES
uffmuttu, one of the many traditional forms of
cultural expressions from Kerala was performed by Christites during Bhasha Utsav.
Performed in the main auditorium, Duffmuttu captivated and enthralled the packed crowd with their energetic performance. It is traditionally a Muslim dance
specific to the region of Malabar, however, in the true
spirit of Bhasha Utsav, the performers included people
from various religious backgrounds. It is a celebratory
and joyful art form performed only by men for social
entertainment during weddings, festivals and other social gatherings.
The dance derives its name from a traditional instrument called the “Duff,” which is used throughout the
performance. Their synchronised movements were
complemented by their attire. It consisted of a blue
shirt, white dhoti and a white cloth tied around their
heads.
The music was powerful and lively which invigorated
the dancers as well as the crowd. The song is a cultural
component of the Malabar Muslim community. The
dance was full of life and had strong movements that
signified the masculinity of the whole process.
C
Photographer: Lijo Thomas
One of the performers, Aisteen George commented on
the competition saying it was “tight” but they still expected to win it. He added that since “Oppanna” is a
traditional dance form exclusively for Muslim girls,
Duffmuttu is a counter balance to it. They also attributed their training for their performance to an external
choreographer, Mr. Sebastian.
The pulsating performance stimulated the crowd into
a chorus of applause not only towards the end but all
the way through the dance.
Preethi Matthew
AN ODE TO CULTURAL VALUES
hrist University takes pride
in celebrating the amalgamation of different cultures and
languages through Bhasha Utsav.
Christites celebrate this day with
gusto in the most pompous manner.
The Department of Languages organizes this event every year, with
the mission of reconnecting people
with their roots. Christ University
has always strived to nurture a cosmopolitan environment. Consequently, Bhasha Utsav started its
wonderful journey in 2005 to promote this unifying objective.
Owing to their experience from the
previous years, the Heads of Departments shared their views on the
event. Dressed in traditional attire,
they were adept in keeping the tradition and spirit alive.
Professor Mallika Krishnaswamy,
Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences believes that the present generation is moving away from their
traditions. According to her, in an increasingly westernized environ-
5
ment, Bhasha Utsav aims to make
the students conscious of their roots.
She adds, “Christ University is a
melting pot of cultures from across
the globe and the Department of
Languages in particular takes immense pride for organizing this
event. The day motivates the students to be culturally aware and sensitive, to celebrate and cherish their
traditions.”
Professor Dr K. A. Sebastian of the
Hindi department says, “Christ University students come from diverse
cultural and lingual backgrounds
and it feels good to see everyone
dressed in their traditional attire".
He explains that the focus of this
year’s Bhasha Utsav is the promotion and commemoration of the folk
arts. Along with his colleague Dr
George Joseph, he strongly insists
“follow your heritage and go back to
your roots rather than imitate the
west”.
On a similar note, The Department
Head of Kannada, Dr Y. S. Shiva
BHASHA UTSAV
Prasad, stated that the present generation is indifferent to traditional
folk art and culture. He believes that
by conducting such celebrations,
Christ University aims to inculcate
the value and importance of culture
among its students. This year, The
Kannada Department organized
Bommbe Kunitha, a well-known
folk art of Karnataka for the first
time and is pleased with the warm
reception among the Christites.
The head of the Urdu Department
Dr. Abdul Munaff is celebrating his
25th anniversary at Christ University and is pleased to be a part of this
year’s Basha Utsav. He believes that
the magnanimity of this day enthrals
every Christite and he enthusiastically adds “Meri khwahish hain ki
hamari University nasirf Hindustan
ki ek mashoor Uniiversity Kehlaaye
balki iska naam sari duniya main
roshan ho”, emphasising the need
for Christ university to be an international platform for academics and
holistic development.
Commix_BhashaUtsav13_1MCN_Layout 1 06-09-2013 PM 03:47 Page 6
6
Commix_BhashaUtsav13_1MCN_Layout 1 06-09-2013 PM 03:47 Page 7
7
Commix_BhashaUtsav13_1MCN_Layout 1 06-09-2013 PM 03:47 Page 8
8
T
SOULFUL AND POIGNANT MALDIVES
he Maldivian students of Christ University presented the soulful, traditional dance form of The
Republic of Maldives on the occasion of Bhasha
Utsav .The performance was a blend of various types
of folk dances. The songs used in their performance
were sung in their native language- ‘Dhivehi’, which
in itself is unique to the Maldivian culture.
As explained by one of the performer’s the meaning of
songs rightly depicted the honour and privilege of
being an independent country, a pride to follow their
own culture, a desired religion and the way of life they
want to live. This dance is usually performed during
the special occasion of Eid.
The attire worn was colourful and is popularly called
‘Leebaz’. This enthralling dance epitomised the mood
of the day and the audience enjoyed every moment of
it. The most amazing part of the dance performance
was the ‘Dandi Jehun’ which resembles ‘Dandiya’, the
Gujarati dance form. There was also a third type of
P
Photographer: Jonathan
dance performance called the ‘Bodu Belu’, which is one
of the most popular forms of folk music and tribal
dance. Drums made from hollowed coconut wood
were mainly used along with a variety of other thumping musical instruments.
MESMERIZING PUJA KUNITHA
uja Kunitha is a form of religious folk dance
from Karnataka, performed far and wide around
the state. This dance is a ritual to worship and
pay tribute to the Mother Goddess ‘Shakti’. The name ‘Kunitha’ refers to the performance
whereas ‘Puja’ is the name given
to the contraption made of bamboo poles and its peelings, measuring five feet in length and four
feet in width.
The performers were dressed in
simple light green shirts and orange dhotis which showcased its
simplicity as well as signified
ethnicity. The main dancer, Sridhar, had seven sanctified vessels
called ‘Kalashas’ on his head
while he single-handedly lifted the Goddess Shakthi in
his mouth, leaving the audience amazed. Puja Kunitha
attracted lots of attention and curiosity as for the first
time since Bhasha Utsav began, Puja Kunitha was performed instead of Gumbe Kunitha. The proud per-
Surupashree Samrah
formers, skilled and immaculate in their movements,
Sridhar, Praneeth, Sujit, Vignesh, Nadhiya, Abhinay,
Nandhini and Lokhana are students Christ University,
trained by Raghavendra and
Harish V.V.Puram College of
Arts and Commerce.
Every performance is incomplete without the music. The
rhythmic beats of Tamtae, Nagari and Trasa had the whole
auditorium dancing, cheering
and applauding. Dr. Y.S Shiva
Prasad, H.O.D, Kannada Department said, “We had land it
turned out very well. They have
undoubtedly managed to enPhotographer: Jonathan thrall the audience.” Such was
the success of Puja Kunitha that
it was performed again in the presence of Kannada
film star, Puneeth Rajkumar.
BHASHA UTSAV
Cyril T
Commix_BhashaUtsav13_1MCN_Layout 1 06-09-2013 PM 03:47 Page 9
O
AND THE BRIDE SAYS "QABOOLHAI!"
ppana is a traditional dance form that is popular among the Muslim community of God’s
own country, Kerala. “Oppanaipattu” originated in Tamil Nadu and was later adopted and popularised in Kerala as “Oppana pattu”. It is extensively
performed at weddings, as the bride prepares herself
for the new phase in her life. A few talented Christites
from B.A and B.Com staged this art form with grace
and panache, adorned in the most exquisite attire. The
Dancers moved in unison around the bride, in a culmination of rhythmic movements and claps to the tunes
of a group of Oppana singers who complimented the
performance with
their voices.
The magnifi c e n t
“bride”, sat
amidst the
dancers,
clad in traditional
bridal wear
Photographer: Anoop and gold ornaments,
while her palms and feet flaunted intricately woven
patterns of Mehendi.
The audience were absolutely captivated by the beauty
9
and the subtle nuances of the “Oppana Murukkam”,
the piece performed today and it was the first of its
kind in Christ University. Megha Verghese and Shinsila Salim were among the students who performed
and are professional dancers who are well versed in
the art form. They have been performing at various
states of the country, under the training and guidance
of Smt. Shajina Salim. She was also the choreographer
of the brilliant performance staged today and has she
has succeeded at bestowing the audience with a classic
performance that makes one reminisce the mystic aura
of weddings.
E
GLIMPSE OF TIBET
Megha
ach folk, regional and the international performances of Bhasha Utsav 2013 is bound to
mesmerise every soul on campus. The Christ
University students from B. Com and B S.c students
performed the graceful Tibetan dance that showed
the colours and culture of traditional Tibet. The Tibetan folk dance expressed the unity and the ethnicity of Kompu region, in a fascinating blend of grace
and beauty.
They performed on Kompu Neiumchoe music,
which is a regional music of Kompu. The music
aroused the feeling of joy of celebrating and could
not help but put a smile on everyone. The dancers
were dressed in a traditional Tibetan garments representing the region of Kompu. The attire of the performances and the magnificent combination of steps
in harmony was a treat to eyes and ears of the spectators.
In contrast to the last year, the Tibetan dance performance this year was more energetic and attractive.
Twenty-four performers were able to attract a huge
crowd on last year’s Bhasha Utsav, but this year a
mere twelve performers were enough to sweep a
larger crowd off their feet. The soft music progressed
to faster beats while the dancers swayed gracefully.
The theme was moral instrument of life. One of the
proud performers explained the dance culture and
the meaning of their regional tradition of Kompu.
Photographer: Gayatri The folk dance was extremely graceful to look and it
represented the Tibetan culture very efficiently for all
those who knew little about it. The audience cheered,
applauded and they enjoyed the performance with
utmost spiritual enthusiasm.
Manoj
BHASHA UTSAV
Commix_BhashaUtsav13_1MCN_Layout 1 06-09-2013 PM 03:47 Page 10
T
A “HEAVENLY”
PERFORMANCE
hiruvathira is a dance form that is strictly performed only by the womenfolk to commemorate
the auspicious occasion of Lord Shiva’s birth in
the month of Dhanu. It is usually performed a day before Lord Shiva's birth, where wives fast for the wellbeing of their husbands. The students of B.Com
Department performed this traditional dance form from
Kerala and they succeeded at captivating the audience.
Photographer: Anoop
As per Kerala tradition, the dancers
were adorned in beautiful white and red sarees that
complimented the performance. It commenced with a
small introduction that briefed the audience of the nuances and unique attributes of the art form. This was
presented in both English and Malayalam as it was addressed to a diverse audience. A lamp was lit to evoke
the presence of the
almighty and the
dancers began their
brilliant streak. They
gracefully strutted
around the lamp in a
series of rhythmic
movements and gestures in front of a
backdrop that glorified Kerala. The lamp
in the center signifies
the third eye of Lord
Shiva and the mesmerizing
dance
Photographer: Anoop
movements signifies the dance performed by Parvathi for Lord Shiva.
The slow and elegant dance movements added to the
mesmerizing beauty of the performance. One among
the performers was Ashley, a 2nd Year B.com student
from Christ University who added, “I feel proud and
blessed to be a part of this dance. It gives me immense
pleasure to perform this art form. It is unique and shows
an showcases and elegant and old traditional art form"
T
STAR POWER TO
BHASHA UTSAV
10
he highlight of BhashaUtsav2013 was undoubtedly the arrival of Kannada superstar
and a national award winner, Puneeth Rajkumar. The youngest son of the veteran actor Rajkumar had the audience thronging and cheering
upon his arrival. It was a moment of pride for
Christ University to welcome this famous personality with all our heart and warmth.
Dr. Y S Shivprasad, HOD, Department of Kannada,
introduced this multi-talented actor by outlining
his achievements in the Kannada film industry. He
was then invited on the podium to address the
Photographer: Gayatri
gathering. The audience thundered with applause
when he said that he would choose to talk in Kannada rather than in English because it was his
mother tongue. His humility and down to earth nature left the audience charmed.
Puneeth Rajkumar mainly spoke about the huge
role culture and language plays in our lives and
how all of us should stay rooted to the culture and
tradition passed on to us. He expressed his happiness in being a part of this unique event. As he
treated the audience to a few of his famous dance
steps, their enthusiasm was contagious and exhilarating. Puneet Rajkumar handed out the first
prize to the team which performed Puja Kunitha
and won the first place.
Reporter- Ipshita and Akhil
BHASHA UTSAV
Surabhi Virnave
Commix_BhashaUtsav13_1MCN_Layout 1 06-09-2013 PM 03:47 Page 11
T
TO THE BEATS OF NEPAL
11
he culture and traditions of Nepal is the work of
legends. Their dance and music has the ability
to transfer the audience to the exquisiteness that
Nepal has to offer.
The team of eighteen created a mark on stage that is
going to be remembered through the years to come.
The audience was enthralled by the vibrant dance performance which received a thundering applause. A
team member Neem said, “We wanted to bring to the
audience a piece of our homeland where the cultural
diversity is beyond imagination.”
The stage showcased the presence of the performers
holding lights immersing them in a mystical world.
And then with a collective jump began a journey of
majestic elegance and grace as the stunning dancers
from Nepal wooed and won over the packed auditorium.
Their story was one of joy and happiness; of lovers
who through their expressive movements captivated
the audience and drew them into their world of elation.
As the boys leaped on stage with their knives and hats
and won over the beautiful elegant women with simple smiles, it was impossible for one to remain aloof
from their contagious mood. Perfectly synchronized
and with movements that flowed like water, the
A
Photographer: Lijo Thomas
dancers were not only entertaining but also flawless in
their performance. They left the audience with an experience that was both complete and satisfying.
As the dancing continued, the tempo of the music rose
to newer heights with every step. Every individual
present there was drawn even closer to the rich heritage of Nepal. Feet tapping and colours flowing the
team finished with a flourish representing Nepal in all
its elegance, glory and exuberance.
Shivani Jagan
DHANYAVADAGALU!
fter the fun and frolic of Bhasha Utsav, it was
time to announce the names of those who
ruled the hearts of all with their stellar performances. The first prize was awarded to Puja Kunitha , second to Thiruvathira and the third prize went
to the Tibetan Dance group. The consolation prize was
won by the Nepal dance group.
Bhasha Utsav is one most the most magnificent events
celebrated in Christ University, a lot of effort has been
put in by both, the faculty and the students. The grand
celebration was concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Athira (Department of Media Studies) and
Rijul (Department of Performing Arts). The results of
the dance competition were also announced.
The students thanked everyone for their hard work
and dedication to put forward such a glorious event
and extended their gratitude to the Vice Chancellor
Col. Dr. Father Thomas C. Mathew, the faculties of all
the Departments, the performers from different regions, the support staff of the university, the SWO vol-
Photographer: Gayatri
unteers and all the students.
Once the event ended, the audience had the opportunity of enjoying performances of various regional and
folk dance troupes all over the university premise.
BHASHA UTSAV
Amitava Bhattacharjee
Commix_BhashaUtsav13_1MCN_Layout 1 06-09-2013 PM 03:47 Page 12
12