International Day of Democracy

On the occasion of the International Day of Democracy, the Department of English and Cultural Studies, in collaboration with the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), organised a thought-provoking and engaging event to commemorate and reflect upon the enduring values of democracy and civic participation. The program brought together students, faculty, and invited guests in a shared space of dialogue, creativity, and reflection, highlighting democracy not merely as a system of governance but as a living and evolving practice that shapes everyday life.

The event commenced with a keynote address delivered by Dr. Chetan Jayant Dixit, whose lecture set the intellectual tone for the day. Dr. Dixit emphasised the continued relevance of democratic principles in today’s world, particularly their role in fostering inclusivity, empowering citizens, and ensuring justice within diverse societies. He reminded the audience that democracy is not static but must continually adapt to changing socio-political landscapes while remaining rooted in its core values of participation, dialogue, and equality. His address resonated strongly with students, who were encouraged to view themselves not only as beneficiaries of democracy but also as active contributors to its sustenance and growth.

Following the keynote, the event transitioned into a Poetry Reading session by the keynote speaker, a creative segment that foregrounded the intersection of literature, art, and democratic ideals. He presented an original work that reflected upon themes such as freedom, justice, equality, and dissent. The reading highlighted how poetry functions as a powerful medium of resistance and hope, enabling voices—particularly those at the margins—to engage with questions of democracy in deeply personal and affective ways. The emotional intensity of the session underscored how democratic thought extends beyond institutions and procedures, finding resonance in cultural expressions and artistic forms.

The celebration continued with a Poster Making competition on the theme “Viksit Bharat@2047: Envisioning India’s Future.” This interactive activity provided students with an opportunity to visualize India’s democratic journey and articulate their aspirations for the nation as it approaches the centenary of independence. The posters, marked by originality and innovation, reflected diverse visions of India’s future—ranging from technological advancement and sustainable growth to social equity and cultural inclusivity. The competition not only fostered creativity but also emphasized the role of youth as critical stakeholders in shaping democratic futures.

The event concluded with the screening of “Democracy”, a short film by Aditya Agnihotri. The film offered a nuanced and reflective perspective on the contemporary challenges and opportunities that define democratic life today. By portraying the tensions, contradictions, and possibilities inherent in democratic processes, the film encouraged the audience to critically engage with democracy as a lived reality rather than an abstract concept. Its thought-provoking narrative left a lasting impression, inspiring conversations among the attendees about their own responsibilities within a democratic framework.

Overall, the celebration of the International Day of Democracy served as a meaningful reminder of the importance of collective reflection, creative expression, and active participation in sustaining democratic ideals. By combining intellectual discussion, artistic engagement, and critical reflection, the program successfully created a holistic platform for exploring democracy in both theory and practice.