Feb 23, 2024
NIT Calicut to host VIRASAT 2024
SPIC MACAY and NITC join hands for promoting culture and art
The National Institute of Technology Calicut (NITC) and the Calicut Chapter of SPIC MACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth) have joined hands to promote art and culture. The initiative aims to foster the exchange of Indian culture, art, and music and create awareness about the rich cultural heritage of the country.
The institute has formalized this collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on February 23, 2024.
Key Collaboration Initiative
The primary focus of the collaboration is the establishment of a Heritage Club at NITC. This club will serve as a hub for promoting arts and culture on the campus. It will host workshops, lectures, and performances by renowned artists. These activities are part of the VIRASAT '24, a 17-day cultural program scheduled for March.
VIRASAT '24
VIRASAT is one of the main cultural festivals of SPIC MACAY. The meaning of this Hindi word is heritage. VIRASAT was launched for the first time in Dehradun in 1995. Educational institutions across the country and abroad actively participate in this cultural extravaganza. Many cultural events which showcase various folk and classing art forms including music and dance are now included under the banner VIRASAT. Besides, cinema screenings, heritage walks, handicraft workshops, and theatre programs also are part of this event.
History of VIRASAT
The VIRASAT program has a rich history, originating in Dehradun in 1995. It expanded into a nationwide event with VIRASAT 2008, which featured concerts and events in Delhi and 300 other localities. Eminent artists such as Pt. Birju Maharaj, Pt. Shivkumar Sharma, T.N. Seshagopalan, Alarmel Valli, Pt. Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, Shovana Narayan, Pt. Rajan and Sajan Misra, Teejan Bai, participated in the series of concerts. Last year, the IIT Madras Chapter organized VIRASAT 2023.
The partnership between NITC and SPIC MACAY marks a significant stride towards enriching the cultural landscape of the institute. The establishment of the Heritage Club and the collaboration with VIRASAT '24 exemplify NITC's dedication to fostering a deep appreciation for India's artistic and cultural traditions among its students and the broader community.