Unity in diversity is more than just a saying at SRM University-AP; it’s the heart and soul of our campus. With over 6000+ students from various states and union territories and an international diversity representing 24 countries each festival serves as a bridge, drawing a closer bond amongst all. The Onam celebration, Aaravam 2024, on campus was no different, the varsity celebrated Onam on September 17, 2024.

The celebration orchestrated by the Directorate of Student Affairs oversaw the decoration and resplendent showcase of the Kerala culture through dance and music. The festivities commenced with the traditional Thiruvathirakali, a dance that saw students gracefully attired in the Kerala Kasavu saree, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the day, followed by an array of cultural performances that captivated the audience. The highlight of the celebration was the appetising Onam payasam, which brought in the sweetness of the festival itself.

The appearance of King Mahabali brought a wave of joy among us all. In a heartwarming gesture, our Kerala community shared a captivating video that told the story of Onam, welcoming everyone to partake in the tradition, truly reflecting SRM AP‘s embrace of diverse cultures.

The event was graced by the presence of Registrar Dr R Premkumar, the Deans of the three schools, and King Mahabali himself, along with our faculty, staff and students. It was a day that drew us all closer, celebrating Kerala’s rich cultural tapestry. More than just a celebration, it was a reminder of the beauty in our diversity and the strength in our unity.

SRM University-AP, renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic development, celebrated Teachers’ Day jointly organised by the Directorate of Human Resources & Development and the Directorate of Student Affairs with a heartful tribute to its dedicated faculty members. The event was a testament to the profound impact that teachers have on their student’s lives, shaping not only their academic journeys but also their personal and professional growth.

The event was celebrated in the presence of Prof. V S Rao, Advisor; Dr R Premkumar, Registrar, SRM University-AP; Deans; directors; faculty members; and students. It was a collaborative effort by students and staff, who joined hands to pay respectful tribute to the faculty’s exemplary service. The Chief Guest for the event, Prof Devang V Khakhar, Former Director of IIT Bombay, graced the occasion virtually.

During the occasion, Prof V S Rao, Advisor to SRM University-AP, added his words of appreciation, stating, “Teachers are the architects of tomorrow’s world. Their dedication, passion, and commitment inspire and empower the students to reach their full potential. Our faculty members are transitioning from traditional teaching roles to becoming mentors and facilitators.”

In his speech, Chief Guest Prof. Devang V Khakhar underscored the pivotal role of faculty in a university’s success. He stated, “The strength of an academic institution lies in its teachers. They shape the future by enhancing students’ learning capabilities and skills. Indeed, teachers are the true pillars of any academic institution.”

The event also marked the announcement of the Outstanding Faculty Awards, honouring Dr Sunil Chinnadurai, Associate Professor, Department of ECE; Dr Lakshmi Sirisha Maganti, Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering; Dr Karthikeyan E, Assistant Professor, Department of ECE; Dr Mahesh Kumar M, Assistant Professor, Department of CSE; Dr Satish Anamalamudi, Associate Professor, Department of CSE; Dr Sabyasachi Chakrabortty, Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry; Dr Rajapandiyan Panneerselvam, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry; Dr Vimal Babu – Associate professor, Department of Management; Dr Lakshmana Rao Ayyangari, Associate professor, Department of Commerce for their exceptional contributions to their respective departments. Dr Sutharsan Govindarajan, Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences, was bestowed with the “Prof. V S Rao Foundation – Prof. HP Tiwari Best Faculty Award“.

The awardees expressed their gratitude to the university and students in their acceptance speeches.

The ceremony also recognised the dedication of faculty members with the Five-Year Services Award. The celebration was moderated by Prof. Sheela Singh, Associate Director of Faculty Affairs, who provided insightful commentary and ensured a smooth flow of events. The celebration concluded with a series of captivating performances by students, showcasing their talents and appreciation for their teachers. The Students Council presented the token of gifts to select adorable teachers. The event was a memorable occasion that highlighted the strong bond between students and faculty at SRM University-AP.

Sweeter than honey, tastier than curd, pleasanter indeed than any happiness, and joy is the company, is the power of the name of Krishna. Janmashtami is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Krishna, one of the most powerful and famous reincarnations of Lord Vishnu.

To seek the blessings of Lord Krishna, the Directorate of Student Affairs at SRM University-AP celebrated Janmashtami on August 23, 2024, with mirth and joy. The campus was filled with the fragrance of flowers, the soothing aroma of camphor, and the jingle of bells, creating a divine atmosphere.

While the religious significance of Janmashtami was deeply honoured, the day also symbolised much more for modern India. It was a day of excitement, euphoria, and a joyous spirit of enthrallment. The celebration brought together devotion, creativity, enjoyment, and fun.

Additionally, the event featured a captivating story recital narrating Lord Krishna’s divine leelas, which enchanted the audience. Devotional singing by the devotees of ISKCON further elevated the spiritual ambience, making the celebration truly memorable. The Janmashtami celebration wasn’t just a series of events; it was a testament to the power of unity, tradition, and the true spirit of Janmashtami. The Auditorium was alive with laughter and enthusiasm during the fun activities, complemented by the elegant area adorned for Krishna Pujan, creating a serene backdrop for our spiritual observance.

This event beautifully showcased the ability of communal celebrations to bring our community together, fostering an appreciation for the significance of Lord Krishna’s birth in a joyous and meaningful manner. As we reflect on the joy and unity of Janmashtami 2024, our hope is that the blessings of Lord Krishna continue to guide and inspire our community throughout the year.

A free tuition centre was established in the Nidamarru village on Wednesday under the auspices of SRM Foundation. Dr R Premkumar, Registrar of SRM University-AP and Mrs Revathi Balakrishnan, Associate Director – Directorate of Student Affairs, jointly inaugurated the centre. Dr Premkumar addressed the students and their parents on this occasion, stating that “SRM Foundation of SRM University (Chennai), which is internationally renowned as a leading educational institution in teaching and research, is also active in social service schemes and programs in the states of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. This tuition centre is a testament to the Foundation’s philosophy of development for the societal cause.”

The Foundation’s spokesperson, Mr Suresh Kannan, stated that the Foundation set up the first rural tuition centre to provide free education to rural students in Tamil Nadu. SRM AP Media Public Relations Manager Mr Venugopal Gangisetty further remarked that 22 tuition centres have been established in Tamil Nadu state, with 570 students being taught the curriculum. This is the first free tuition centre to be established in Andhra Pradesh.

Mr Elamaran, Senior Consultant of Puthiyathalaimurai Foundation, said that students studying in sixth to tenth standard from economically backward families will be taught free of charge at the tuition centre. Many students of the villages and their parents were overjoyed as this was a remarkable hope to guarantee quality education and support for their children. Ms Prathipati Sushma, a teacher at the tuition centre, thanked SRM Foundation for setting up the first tuition centre in Nidamarru and giving her the opportunity to teach. Sweets and notebooks were distributed to the students after the program. SRM AP Chief Liaison Officer Mr Poolla Ramesh Kumar, Assistant Manager Mr Ramachandra Reddy and the residents of Nidamarru village participated in this program.