The Faculty of Law of University of Allahabad had a novel experience courtesy the students of the B.A., LL.B. (Hons.). The two day cultural festival spanning from 7th to 8th February, 2009 acted as a platform for the students. This fest ended the wait of the till now pseudo academically incarcerated minds and talents of the young students. For the first time I could sense the wholesome sense of participation of each and every student. This is not a case in the otherwise tedious Moot Court and other academic competitions.
For a change life meant something else than elaborate lectures of Prof. Akbar or the leisure spent at Sunil’s canteen or the unending discussion on the tardy attributes of the faculty.
Out of all the events I will discuss only some because they were best among the equals. Let me start with ‘The Bible in Flash’. Quite intriguing title! Isn’t it? Yes, why not presenting the world’s most widely read book in the span of 10 minutes is not the children’s play. But a successful effort in this regard was made by the students of 6th semester under the able directorship of Divya. The whole plot was narrated by her aptly followed by excellent performances by all the characters. Basic characteristic which made it different from the other competitors was its lucid presentation. The modern take on the Bible did not preach. Instead, it made the audiences aware of the eclectic range of human emotions through a subtle comedy. Sitting beside the person who was judging this whole event, Prof. Sanjay Datta Roy I could easily perceive his approval of the performance through his wholehearted laughter. Kudos to you guys for your brilliant show!!! I really regret of being unable to participate with you all because of the client counseling Competition. The highlights of the skit can be summed up as Iishita becoming Satan (she justified the role in the black attire with red horns and dark make-up), Sanyukta playing the Almighty, Parul-Rajnish donning the role of Adam & Eve on stage, Dhawal if not in reality then in fictitious display proposing the opposite sex in role of Joseph, Namrata just living up to her serene image as Mary, Manish & Akshat making the full use of their personalities in the character of Nova & Moses. Pragati getting the feel of a judge and Garima attacking Akshat with a javelin, I mean to say as part of the play. Saumitra adeptly displayed his real life machismo on the stage also as David. Abhijeet the BAPPA incarnated as Jesus to help the people of the world (pun intended). But the superstar of the maiden production of our class was Krisnam who became the wisest person on the Earth as King Solomon. But this is not the end, he had 700 wives and he did what no one can even think of doing in his wildest dreams (pun intended). So, as per my senses and atheism, I give a * * * * rating to The Bible in Flash.
This session of LEXFEST also saw the performances by the students of 1st and 2nd year. ‘Witness for the Prosecution’ was presented by the freshers, whereas the sophomores presented a comedy whose title I am unaware. I missed both these performances because of being late, but I found Sushmita’s performance good. Keep it up you all!!!
Quiz was one of the events where the first year students stood 1st. Singing competition revealed to me many new talents. Sridhar Sundaram’s Carnatic Classical music rendition though flawed was commendable attempt. Monica’s crooning of the famous ram bhajan showed that the Indian youth is still attached to its basic values. BAPPA the Rock Star stole the show with Sadhu re…. But most importantly, I felt jovial about the excellent guitar playing by Kushal. His presence in the form of music made the otherwise normal performances look good.
Chief Justice of Allahabad High Court Hon’ble Mr. Justice H. L. Gokhale inaugurated the photo gallery of Gaurav. He was accompanied by his wife who also praised the efforts of Gaurav along with all the persons who visited the gallery. Magh mela was the theme of the presentation. Congratulations Gaurav for putting up a good show.
Second day of the Fest had a series of events which unleashed creative instincts of the students. But again the regret of mine not being adept in any of these fields made me a mere audience. I enjoyed playing role of the same. Painting, Collage and chess final were going on in other rooms. The best event of the day was Stand-up comedy by Akshat & Manish who ultimately were adjudged as the winner of competition also. Everything was fine in their performance as they took potshots over all the recent events and general daily activities of the people. And yes, how can I forget to mention the best anchoring of the event by Shaurya & Krishnam. Shyamal sir invoked the feel of ecstasy with soulful rendition of his signature Ghazal. Hemlata Ma’am performed a great parody and acquainted everyone with the lighter side of her personality. The best part of Antakshari was I singing Ghajini’s Ghuzarish (pun intended). Lastly the award ceremony took place.
I am in dilemma whether I should give formal valedictory note or present the reality to end this post. Well I am writing as I feel, rest is the democratic right of the readers to interpret the comments as they wish. Special thanks to Anubhav & Shefali for the advent of “The New Cult”, Shashwat for his relentless photography and as usual Jai Vardhan Narayan for all whatever he can and what he did. He never fails to justify the title of OSD. This faculty will miss you acutely Jai when you pass out from here (no pun intended). I feel it’s too much. For more details wait for LEXFEST’10. Au Revoir!!!
P.S.- I feel mention of details other than above will demean the heroism of students who gave their all , for this cultural event!! My heartfelt compliments to everyone who even had a nano share in making “The New Cult” arrive at A. U.!!!!
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