Srinagar, Oct 3 (KNS): The Department of Students’ Welfare (DSW), University of Kashmir, organised a series of programmes to commemorate Gandhi Jayanti 2026, celebrating the life, ideals and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi through art, creativity, dialogue and social responsibility.

Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir, Prof Nilofer Khan, presided over the programme as the chief guest, while Registrar Prof Naseer Iqbal and Controller of Examinations Prof Majid Zaman Baba were the guests of honour.

Addressing the gathering, Prof Nilofer Khan highlighted the continued relevance of Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy in contemporary society and said his ideals of truth, non-violence, peace and service remained important in guiding young people towards responsible citizenship.

The Vice Chancellor also linked Gandhian philosophy with the growing concern of drug addiction among young people, observing that when young lives are destroyed by addiction, it amounts to a form of violence against their own lives. She stressed the need for collective efforts to protect and guide the younger generation towards healthy, creative and productive pursuits.

She appreciated the DSW for using creative and participatory activities to engage students with Gandhian thought.

Registrar Prof Naseer Iqbal said Gandhi’s message of truth, simplicity, compassion and peaceful social change continued to offer valuable lessons for society. He said students, as future citizens and leaders, had an important role in translating these values into action in their daily lives.

Controller of Examinations Prof Majid Zaman Baba appreciated the participation of students and said such programmes provided young people an opportunity to express their understanding of Gandhian philosophy through art, speech and creative expression.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The programme featured a painting competition on “Gandhian Values in Contemporary Society”, a poster-making competition on “Truth, Non-Violence and Peace” and a caricature-making activity portraying Mahatma Gandhi.

A speech competition on “Gandhian Philosophy and Its Relevance in the Contemporary World” was also organised, providing students a platform to reflect on the continuing relevance of Gandhi’s ideas. Students from 22 institutions across the Valley participated in the competition.

A special exhibition of artworks based on Gandhian philosophy was also organised, showcasing creative expressions of students and young artists.

Earlier, the Dean Students’ Welfare welcomed the dignitaries, faculty members, officers and students and highlighted the objectives of organising the celebrations through creative and socially relevant activities.

The programme was coordinated and curated by Dr Shahid Ali Khan, Cultural Officer, University of Kashmir, who also presented the vote of thanks.

A large number of students, faculty members and officers of the university attended the programme.

The event was organised by the Department of Students’ Welfare in association with the Institute of Music and Fine Arts, University of Kashmir.(KNS)