Mullana, Ambala: The 39th Inter-University North–Central Zone Youth Festival ‘UNIFEST 2025–26’, organized under the aegis of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), New Delhi, at Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana–Ambala, concluded in a dignified and उत्साहपूर्ण atmosphere. The five-day festival witnessed participation from over 1,300 students representing 27 universities of the North–Central Zone. Prestigious institutions including Aligarh Muslim University, Banaras Hindu University, Jamia Millia Islamia, Amity University, University of Delhi, Chandigarh University, Central University of Haryana, Kurukshetra University, and several other renowned academic institutions from across the country took part in the festival.
The festival featured a wide range of competitions encompassing music, dance, theatre, fine arts, literary arts, and folk arts. The valedictory ceremony was held in the main auditorium, graced by the presence of participating students, academicians, judges, and distinguished guests from across the nation.
The Chief Guest of the ceremony was Ranbir Singh Gangwa, Cabinet Minister, Government of Haryana. The occasion was further dignified by the presence of Prof. (Dr.) H.K. Sharma, Vice-Chancellor, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University); Prof. (Dr.) B. Sreedhar Reddy, Pro-Vice-Chancellor; Dr. Sumit Mittal, Registrar; AIU Observer Father Sony Chundattu; Technical Observer Dr. Santosh Pathak; Dean Academics Dr. N.K. Batra; and Dean Student Welfare Dr. J.K. Sharma.
Ranbir Singh Gangwa expressed pride in addressing such a large congregation of youth on a single platform. He congratulated all participants and stated that such youth festivals provide golden opportunities for young talents to showcase their abilities. He emphasized that youth festivals not only offer platforms for talent but also play a vital role in nurturing confidence, leadership, and creativity among the youth. Highlighting the government’s continuous efforts towards youth empowerment, he stated that today’s youth are transforming from job seekers into job creators, which reflects a bright future for the nation. He urged young people to set clear life goals and work relentlessly towards achieving them.
AIU Observer Father Sony Chundattu, in his address, described the festival as a vibrant celebration of culture, creativity, and diversity that has left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all participants. He noted that the festival showcased an extraordinary confluence of talent, passion, and creativity, which was truly inspiring. The performances, he said, clearly demonstrated that today’s youth possess not only artistic excellence but also the capacity to guide society through their ideas and expressions.
In his address, Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Harish Kumar Sharma congratulated and thanked all the judges for their dedication, commitment, and sincere efforts. He emphasized that the success and dignity of such festivals depend significantly on the impartiality and integrity of the judges. Quoting, “Every good thing comes to an end, but this event was not merely a programme—it was a grand celebration for our university. It reflects the festive spirit, cultural richness, and unity of our institution.”
Prof. (Dr.) B. Sreedhar Reddy, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, presented the vote of thanks, expressing heartfelt gratitude to all guests, organizers, participants, collaborators, observers, judges, university representatives, and student participants from various institutions.
On this occasion, the Overall Winners were announced. Chandigarh University, Unnao, emerged as the Overall Champion with outstanding performances across competitions. Kurukshetra University secured the position of First Runner-Up. The University of Delhi was declared Second Runner-Up, while APJ Satta University, Gurugram, was awarded Third Runner-Up, and Chaudhary Devi Lal University, Sirsa, achieved the position of Fourth Runner-Up.
The ceremony concluded with a spirit of cultural harmony, mutual respect, and hopes for a bright future for the coming generations, making the memories of ‘UNIFEST 2025–26’ truly unforgettable for all participants.
