Shimla, August 22
The APG Shimla University campus came alive with music, culture and youthful energy as the university organised its annual ‘AAGAZ-2026’ Freshers’ Party and Mega Star Night to welcome new students to the academic session.
Organised by the Department of Student Welfare under the guidance of Dean Student Welfare Prof Dr Neelam Sharma and Dean Faculty Prof Dr Ashwani Sharma, the event began with Saraswati Vandana and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and continued till late evening.
Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation Chairman and MLA R.S. Bali, the chief guest, was accorded a traditional Himachali welcome with a cap, shawl, memento and bouquet.
Addressing the students, Bali urged them to stay away from drugs and focus on discipline, hard work and perseverance. “Say no to drugs and create history through hard work,” he said, while encouraging the youth to contribute towards building a healthy and progressive society.
The highlight of the evening was the performance by popular Himachali folk singer and Nati King Kuldeep Sharma. His popular numbers, including ‘Rang Roop Tera Bada Pyara Ho, Shilpa Shimle Aaliye’ and ‘O Neelma’, had students and faculty members dancing to the beats. Sharma also appealed to youngsters to choose a healthy lifestyle and remain connected with Himachal’s rich folk culture.
The daytime programme featured a Solo Ramp Walk Competition, in which students showcased their confidence, personality and talent. The participants also conveyed messages related to a drug-free society, national service and family values. The jury comprised Vanita Chauhan, Dr Shikha Sharma and Mala Singh.
Yashasvi was crowned Ms Fresher, while Anshool Sharma won the Mr Fresher title. The winners were presented crowns, mementoes and certificates by the chief guest.
As part of the celebrations, senior students of the Hotel Management Department hosted the freshers with a variety of delicacies, reflecting the spirit of hospitality and camaraderie between seniors and juniors.
The event was attended by Pro-Chancellor Prof Dr Ramesh Chauhan, Registrar Prof Dr R.L. Sharma, Advisor Engineer Suman Vikrant, Dean Academics Prof Anand Mohan Sharma, Dean Faculty Prof Dr Ashwani Sharma, Dean Management Dr Neeti Nag, Associate Dean Academics Dr Jyotsna Sharma, Dean Forensic Science Prof Dr Tina Sharma, Dr Pyaar Singh, besides heads of departments, faculty members, non-teaching staff, security personnel, media representatives and students.
Registrar Prof Dr R.L. Sharma thanked the organising committee, Student Welfare Department, Cultural Committee, faculty and non-teaching staff, security personnel, media team and students for the successful conduct of the event.
The celebrations provided the freshers with an energetic start to their university journey while highlighting the importance of staying connected with Himachal’s cultural heritage.
