Mangalore Diocese News

Media Release

Mangaluru, Oct 23 : On 22nd October 2024, St. Agnes College (Autonomous) conducted a national level fest for students under the banner of “Agnofest”, which is an annual feature at the college. This fest is an opportunity for students from all over to showcase their talents in the areas of art, literature, culture and general knowledge. This year the one day national fest was conducted in two streams, one of the Pre-University level and the other for the undergraduate level of students; the evening was marked by “The Seeds of Change” a dance drama competition that was open for all to participate, including teams from the general public. The theme chosen for Agnofest - “Vibranza 2024” was flora and fauna, in keeping with the “Green Campus”and also to propagate eco-friendly living and sustainability.

The inaugural of Vibranza 2024 commenced with a grand reception where the chief guest was received with full honour at the main entrance and led to the auditorium in a traditional gala procession. The program commenced with an invocation seeking divine blessings on the occasion. A theme dance showcasing the vibrancy of nature and exhibiting growth and exuberance was a show stealer that left the audience spellbound. Among the dignitaries on dais along with the chief guest were the Sr. Dr. M. Venissa A.C, the Principal of the college, Sr. Dr. M. Maria Roopa A.C, the Joint Secretary of St. Agnes Institutions, Mrs. Sabeena D’Souza the convenor of Vibranza 2024, Dept of Business Administration and the Assistant Convenor Mrs. Helen Serrao, Dept of Chemistry, the PTA President, Mr. Ravi Bhat and the Student Presidents Ms. Privy D’souza and Mr. Pratheek Rai, of the Undergraduate and Postgraduate Streams respectively.

The fest was formally inaugurated by the dignitaries, by lighting of the lamp. There were all total of 16 teams from the Undergraduate Colleges and 7 teams from the Pre-University level participated in Vibranza 2024. The Chief Guest Ms. Madhuri Braganza unveiled the trophy of Vibranza2024, soon after which the Vibranza Anthem composed by the College Choir and band was played out.

The Chief Guest for the day was Ms. Madhuri Braganza, who is a special needs educator and a film actress of renown in the South Indian Cinema, including Kannada and Malayalam. In her address, she acknowledged her roots and said both her grandmothers studied at St. Agnes College, in their time. She completed her early education in Bangalore and then went on to do an MA in Special Educational Needs and Inclusion. She told the audience that as a student she looked forward to the fests and cultural events which gave her a rich experience and platform to showcase her skills and talents. She also encouraged the students by telling them that failure is only a stepping stone on the road to success. She spoke on the key ideals of happiness, the importance of helping others, the need for a good sense of humour, the value of healing and the constant ability to hone one's skills and keep growing as learners in life. Upon the request of the audience the Chief Guest who besides being an actor is also a singer, sang a song which was well appreciated with a standing ovation. The Principal in her address appreciated the efforts put in by the staff and students of the organising team. She offered her good wishes to all the participants and special guests. The program concluded with the vote of thanks proposed by Mrs. Helen Serrao, Dept of Chemistry.

There was a special addition of an Auto Expo where there was a public exhibition of cars, including new models, concept cars, and classic cars. This event showcased new auto technologies as well as innovation. These beautiful machines were a visual treat which created an incredible and unforgettable experience.

The day long events were conducted in the various venues as per the schedule and the Dance and Drama competition titled “Seeds of Change” was the grand finale. The day concluded with the valedictory ceremony. Mr. Badekkila Pradeep, Actor, Voice Artist and Anchor, was the Chief Guest where the winners of Vibranza were awarded prizes. The overall championship was bagged by St. Aloysius College, Mangaluru for the Undergraduate and St. Agnes PU College, Mangaluru for the Pre-University. The St. Aloysius PU College and School of Social Work, Roshini Nilaya, Mangaluru bagged the Runners-Up for the PUC and UG categories respectively. St. Agnes PU College bagged the first place in the Dance Drama competition; the dance troupe from Lions Pride Dazzling Elite Group bagged the Runners-Up trophies.