Lucknow: As dusk settled over its historic precincts, Colvin Taluqdars’ College, Lucknow, came alive with colour, rhythm and expression during a splendid Cultural Evening. From 5 pm to 7.30 pm, the campus transformed into a vibrant cultural arena where music, dance, theatre and academic celebration blended seamlessly, offering a rich showcase of India’s artistic diversity and the boundless creativity of Colvinians.
The programme began with the ceremonial arrival of the Chief Guest, followed by a warm welcome and formal introduction. The lighting of the traditional lamp set a reverential tone, symbolising the invocation of knowledge, wisdom and continuity of culture. Addressing the gathering, Principal Sachidanand Singh welcomed the dignitaries, members of the management committee, parents and students, reiterating the institution’s long-standing commitment to holistic education through cultural engagement and creative expression.
The evening was graced by Padma Shri awardee Muzaffar Ali, Chief Guest and an illustrious alumnus of the college, who expressed deep emotion on returning to his alma mater. Reminiscing about his student days, he recalled discovering “fountains of knowledge, culture and education” at Colvin, which, he said, played a formative role in shaping his artistic sensibilities and worldview.
Kanak Rekha Chauhan, Guest of Honour and Founder Director of the Lucknow Literature Festival (METAPHOR), applauded the energy and imagination of the students. She observed that in Lucknow—a city celebrated for its refinement—substance and style naturally coexist, a spirit that was vividly reflected in the evening’s performances. Another Guest of Honour, Prof. Alok Dhawan, eminent scientist, Director of CSIR–Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (IITR), Lucknow, and an ex-Colvinian, encouraged students to nurture curiosity and individuality, reminding them that every learner ultimately finds their own path.
The occasion was attended by members of the College Management Committee, including Kr. Manish Vardhan Singh, Secretary and Manager, Kr. Vinay Kumar Singh, Rai Swareshwar Bali, Kr. Dhyan Pal Singh and Sri Vasudhendra Pratap Singh, along with Mrs. Anupama Singh, Principal (U.P. Board Wing), and Ms. Sangeeta Singh Chauhan, Headmistress.
The cultural segment unfolded as a dynamic mosaic of performances, opening with Vandana and flowing into spirited presentations such as Happy Dance, Flamenco Samba Fusion, Western Dance and Tokyo Drift Dance. Regional flavours added further vibrancy with Tamil Bhangra Fusion, Bengali “Monte Re”, and a graceful Rajasthani Dance. Theatre and music added depth to the evening, with excerpts from Pygmalion, the reflective play The Cycle of Choice, the Hindi production Parshuram–Laxman Samvad, and soulful renditions of Albela Sajan and Bulleya.
The formal segment included the presentation of mementoes to the distinguished guests and the Academic Prize Distribution, honouring meritorious students for their scholastic achievements. The evening concluded on a dignified note with the College Song and the National Anthem, reaffirming Colvin Taluqdars’ College’s enduring legacy of nurturing talent, preserving cultural heritage and promoting holistic education.
