Puttur: Under the joint auspices of St Philomena College (Autonomous) and St Philomena Pre-University College, the 79th Independence Day was celebrated with solemnity.
Rev. Fr. Ashok Ryan Crasta, Principal of St Philomena PU College, hoisted the Tricolour and, addressing the gathering, underlined that India’s progress flows from the freedom to think and express. “Because of this freedom, our economy grows, human dignity rises and major development happens. Indians carry the responsibility to attain complete freedom - from corruption, discrimination, poverty and ignorance, and above all from hatred. While we may emotionally claim India is fully free, we must act responsibly to make it truly so,” he said.
Delivering a message on the significance of the day, Dr Malini K, Dean of Science, reminded that Independence is more than the absence of foreign rule: “It is the presence of justice, equality and opportunity for all. It means eradicating poverty, illiteracy and discrimination, protecting our environment, preserving our heritage, and using our talents to build a stronger India.”
Principal of St Philomena College (Autonomous), Rev. Fr. Dr Antony Prakash Monteiro, urged a thoughtful approach to life and patriotism: “Our flag’s three colours inspire us - saffron for sacrifice, white for purity, and green for prosperity. When sacrifice, purity and prosperity live within a person, he is complete. We must give up selfishness, corruption and laziness. True patriotism is shown through hard work, discipline and unity.”
The celebration featured a ceremonial parade led by SGT Diya K, with participation from NCC Army Wing and Naval Wing cadets, Rovers–Rangers, NSS volunteers, Junior and Youth Red Cross units, and the college band troupe. Students from the Performing Arts Association of both the Degree and PU colleges presented cultural performances as part of the festivities.
The event was attended by Vice Principal Dr Vijay Kumar Moleyar, IQAC Coordinator Dr Edwin S D’Souza; Academic Registrar Dr Norbert Mascarenhas; Controller of Examinations Dr Vinayachandra, Office Superintendent Rufina D’Souza, NCC Officer Capt. Johnson David Sequeira; NSS Programme Officers Dr Chandrashekar K and Pushpa N, Rover Scout Leaders Chandraksha, Junior and Youth Red Cross coordinators Jyothi M, Rajesh Moulya and Dr Dimple Jennifer Fernandes, Performing Arts Association coordinators Rashmi P S and Prashanth Rai, and the faculty and staff of both institutions.
Dr Chandrashekar K, HoD Physics, proposed the vote of thanks, and Poojashree V Rai compered the programme.