The morning sun glinted off the polished metal of the institute's signboard, announcing the welcoming inauguration for freshers of the Performing Arts UG program. Parents and guardians were expected at the backyard stage, and Ponmon's chest tightened with anticipation. Ramanidharan tightened his grip on his brother's bag, then patted him gently.
"Ponmon… remember what I said," he murmured. "No tension, keep your health first, and if chest tightens, use your inhaler. Chettaah is watching over you too, but I am always there."
Raaghav nodded, a smile flickering nervously, as they stepped into the courtyard where students had already gathered. The buzz of excitement was tangible—voices, footsteps, and the occasional burst of laughter mingled with the early morning breeze.
A young woman stepped forward on the stage. Her poise was sharp, her confidence unmistakable. Dhivya, the student president of the Performing Arts Department, cleared her throat and raised the microphone.
"Good morning to one and all present here. Respected Head of the Department, beloved professors, dedicated staff members, dear parents and guardians, my fellow seniors, enthusiastic juniors, and our lovely super juniors—the newest shining stars of our Performing Arts family…
Namaskaaram and a heartfelt welcome to the Inauguration Ceremony of the Department of Performing Arts, Indian Institute of Arts – Trivandrum.
I am Dhivya, a third-year student and the Student President of the Performing Arts Department. Standing here, looking at all your vibrant, curious, and expressive faces—I feel honoured, emotional, and proud. Three years ago, I stood where you now sit—with dreams, doubts, and a soul ready to dance with the universe. Today, I welcome you all not just to a college, but to a family—a creative sanctuary where you will sing, act, dance, fall, rise, and shine…
To my super juniors—you are entering a world that respects passion and rewards commitment. Here, every movement matters, every voice counts, and every story you carry will find a stage. We, your seniors, are not just your guides but your fellow travellers. Don't hesitate to reach out, learn, question, and create.
To our dear parents and guardians—thank you for trusting this institution with your children's dreams. Your support is the hidden strength behind every performer here.
Now, with great respect and excitement, I welcome to the stage our guiding light, the Head of the Department of Performing Arts, who has not only nurtured generations of artists but also preserved the soul of this department with their vision and dedication. Please welcome our HoD with a big round of applause."
The applause swept across the courtyard, and Raaghav felt his heart thump in sync with the rhythmic clapping. Ramanidharan nudged him gently, whispering, "Ponmon… breathe. Observe. Learn. And enjoy."
The HoD stepped forward, voice calm but commanding.
"Namaskaaram! Good morning to one and all gathered here. Respected faculty members, dear parents and guardians, spirited seniors, enthusiastic volunteers, and my dear first-year students—welcome to this special moment: the inauguration of your academic year in the Department of Performing Arts at the Indian Institute of Arts, Trivandrum.
It is not just the beginning of a college journey; it is the beginning of transformation—of voice, expression, rhythm, and identity. Here, art is not just taught—it is lived. Your bodies speak before voices, and movement becomes message. Tradition and innovation walk hand-in-hand.
Parents, your trust in us empowers the dreams of these young performers. Seniors, your guidance is invaluable. And first-year students, welcome to your first step into a world where discipline and creativity are inseparable."
As the HoD stepped down, Vikram Sir, former Interpol officer and now mentor, took the stage with an air of disciplined strength.
"Good morning, everyone.
Freshers, welcome to your battlefield of dreams. Art is a war—against laziness, doubt, and mediocrity. Your body is your instrument, your voice is your sword, your mind is your temple. Discipline will challenge you, passion will fuel you, and hard work will be your path.
Your daily routine will start at 7:00 AM—cardio, strength, Kalaripayattu, yoga. Classes will run 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. No homework, but learning by doing. Each year, your subjects—from acting, dance, music, history, to cinematic training—will shape you into performers, storytellers, and cultural custodians.
Mentors like Prof. Lakshmi Menon, Mr. Arjun Devraj, and others will guide you. Respect them. Learn from them. Collaborate with your peers. And above all, care for yourself while striving to excel. Welcome to the family of fire, form, and freedom."
A final round of applause echoed as Principal Dr. Meenakshi Varma delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging everyone's effort in shaping this inauguration and affirming the students' journey into discipline and creativity.
Raaghav looked at Ramanidharan, eyes wide. His Chettaah's words about discipline, health, and passion resonated deeper now, echoing in the courtyard's open air.
"Ponmon… your journey starts here," Ramanidharan whispered. "And I'll be here, always."
Raaghav smiled softly, clutching his bag, standing straight. The stage, the audience, the voices—they all felt like the first ripple in a river that would carry him far from the gate where he now stood.
The speeches faded, the claps died down, and yet the energy remained—alive, expectant, and brimming with possibilities.
Ponmon inhaled deeply, the morning sun on his face, ready to step forward into a life of rhythm, discipline, and discovery.