Puttur, Aug 2: Under the banner ‘Mud on the Feet, Joy in the Heart!’, the Department of Humanities at St Philomena College (Autonomous), Puttur, organized a vibrant and culturally-rooted experiential learning program for its undergraduate students. The event was held in the lush paddy fields of Appi Moolya near Bedrala in Puttur offering students an immersive taste of rural traditions and agricultural engagement through various folk games and competitions.
Presiding over the event, the college Principal, Rev. Dr Antony Prakash Monteiro, reflected on the declining interest in agriculture among the younger generation, stating, “In the age of modernization, the passion for farming is steadily waning. Initiatives like these by the Department of Humanities serve a dual purpose in reviving the spirit of agriculture and inculcating an understanding of its challenges and potential solutions. It is vital to inspire youth to respect and engage with agriculture; after all, if everyone turns to technology, who will grow the food we eat?” His words struck a chord with the students and faculty alike, emphasizing the importance of sustainable agricultural awareness in contemporary education.
Narayana Moolya, son of Appi Moolya and sponsor of the program, is felicitated in recognition of his support for the initiative.
Vasudeva N, Head of the Department of Economics, elaborated on the significance of the program, connecting it with larger themes of food security, rural livelihoods, and cultural preservation.
The program commenced with a warm welcome by Pavan, a student of II BA, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Mohammed Muzamil of III BA. Krithika, also of II BA, compered the event. The atmosphere was further enlivened by Dhanyashree and her team, who performed traditional Tulu Paddanas (folk ballads), adding a regional and festive flavour to the occasion.
A special moment of the day was the enthusiastic participation of Dhanush Shekhar Rao, a student who earned applause and admiration for his performance in the traditional buffalo-racing inspired sprint, an event reminiscent of coastal Karnataka’s famed Kambala.
Several rural-inspired games and contests were conducted under the dynamic leadership of Captain Johnson David Sequeira, Head of the Department of Sociology, adding fun, competition, and camaraderie to the experiential learning initiative.
The valedictory session was graced by Dr Vijayakumar Moleyar, Vice Principal of the college, who distributed prizes to the winners and commended the efforts of both students and faculty in making the program a grand success.
Faculty members Harshita P. V. and Anisha D. B. from the Humanities Department were present on the occasion.