Mysore/Mysuru: Kalasrushti-2026, a State-level Inter – B.Ed College Cultural and Literary Fest, was organised by St. Joseph’s College of Education (SJCE), Mysuru, under the auspices of the Mysore Diocesan Educational Society (MDES), at its Jayalakshmipuram campus in the city recently.

The fest brought together teacher trainees from 25 B.Ed Colleges across the State, with around 400 participants taking part in various literary and cultural competitions.

In his inaugural address, Rev. Fr. Edward William Saldanha, Secretary and Correspondent of MDES, stated that art and culture originate from nature and basic human needs such as food, shelter, clothing and procreation, which gradually evolved into creative expressions like architecture, fashion, cuisine, music and dance.

Rev. Fr. Naveen Kumar, Treasurer, MDES, Seby Mavely, CEO – Training and Development, MDES, Dr. Priya Mathew, Principal and Assistant Professors Dr. Asha P. Pathrose and Dr. K.T. Chaluvarajaswamy, the fest coordinators, were present.

Literary competitions such as poetry writing, short story writing and elocution in Kannada and English, along with cultural competitions including rangoli, solo song, solo dance, group song and group dance were conducted.

In the valedictory session, classical dance was performed, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries.

Abdul Rasheed, writer and former Assistant Director of Akashvani, Mysuru, in his valedictory address encouraged teacher trainees to reconnect with nature and experience the mysteries of creation and implement their learning for the benefit of mankind.

Rasheed further noted that cultural fests help build bonding and harmony among people.

Rev. Fr. Naveen Kumar delivered presidential address.

The overall champion of the fest was St. Joseph’s College of Education, Mandya, while Nisarga Institute of Education, Kollegal, secured the runner-up position.

Dr. Asha P. Pathrose proposed a vote of thanks.