Date: 10-01-2025
Venue: Campus Ground, Pharmacy Block
Participants: Students [B.Pharmacy, M.Pharmacy, Pharm D], Teaching Staff, and Non-Teaching Staff (approximately 660 members)

Anurag Pharmacy College came alive with vibrant energy and enthusiasm as it hosted the Pongal Celebrations/Sankranti Sambaralu on January 10, 2025, at the Campus Ground near the Pharmacy Block. The event witnessed wholehearted participation from students, teaching staff, and non-teaching staff, totaling around 660 attendees. The celebrations were designed to honor traditions, promote cultural appreciation, and foster a sense of community among the college members.

Highlights of the Event:

1. Dance Performances:

The celebration kicked off with captivating dance performances. Students showcased their talents through traditional, solo, and group dances, bringing an air of festivity and joy to the occasion. The audience was enthralled by the rhythm, energy, and cultural richness of the performances.

2. Rangoli Competition:

The Rangoli (Kolam) competition was a visual treat as participants crafted intricate designs using rice flour, colored powders, and flower petals. Inspired by harvest motifs and Pongal-related symbols like the sun, sugarcane, and cows, the Rangolis added a vibrant touch to the celebrations.

Winners:

• 1st Prize: Archana Sindu and Manibindu (B.Pharm 3rd Year)
• 2nd Prize: Geethanjali, Lavanya, Sowjanya, and Kavya (B.Pharm 4th Year)
• 3rd Prize: Sravani, Teja, and Shaliaja (B.Pharm 2nd Year)

3. Food Competitions:

A culinary feast was presented through the food competition where students prepared traditional dishes such as Lemon Rice, Medu Vada, Payasam, Kootu, Kudumulu, Sakkarai Pongal, and Venn Pongal. The dishes were judged based on taste, creativity, and presentation, making it a delightful and flavorful segment of the celebration.

4. Decorations and Ambience:

The venue was adorned with traditional Pongal elements, including sugarcane stalks, mango leaves, banana trees, and clay pots. Brightly colored flowers, lights, and Kolam designs enhanced the festive atmosphere, creating a perfect setting for the celebrations.

5. Kite Flying:

As part of the Sankranti tradition, kite flying was organized, predominantly participated in by boys. The sky was a spectacle of colorful kites soaring high, symbolizing freedom and festivity.

6. Basava Activities:

In observance of Mattu Pongal, the third day of the festival, a special activity was dedicated to worshipping cows. This segment highlighted the cultural significance of cows in the Pongal festival and provided an educational touch to the event.

Coordination and Collaboration:

The event was seamlessly coordinated by the teaching and non-teaching staff members of Anurag Pharmacy College. Their efforts ensured that every activity was well-organized and enjoyable for all participants.

Conclusion:

The Pongal celebrations at Anurag Pharmacy College successfully brought together tradition, creativity, and community spirit. The interactive and engaging activities provided an opportunity for students to connect with cultural heritage while enjoying the festive ambiance. The event was a memorable occasion that left everyone with a deeper appreciation for the traditions and joyous spirit of Pongal.