Rourkela, Oct 13: The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela’s annual multi-ethnic festival COSMOPOLITAN 2025 concluded on a high note, marking three days of dazzling performances, artistic brilliance, and celebration of India’s cultural richness. Organised by the Literary & Cultural Society under the Student Activity Centre, the event brought together students to exhibit their regional traditions, music, and dance in a vibrant atmosphere of inclusivity and creativity.

The event was inaugurated on October 10, 2025, by Chief Guest Shri Brijesh Kumar Rai,IPS, DIG of Police, Western Range, Rourkeka in the presence of Prof. A. K. Turuk (Dean, Academic); Prof. Niranjan Panda (Dean, Student Welfare), Prof. Rohan Dhiman (Registrar); Prof. Rajeev Kumar Panda, (President, Student Activity Centre); and the Vice Presidents of the Film and Music Society, Prof.Kumud Kant Mehta and Prof. Sivaraman J.

Joining the event on day 2, Prof. K. Umamaheshwar Rao (Director, NIT Rourkela) applauded the students’ efforts in organizing an event that encapsulates India’s cultural diversity within the NIT Rourkela campus. He emphasized the importance of cultural inclusivity and creativity on campus, noting that festivals like Cosmopolitan strengthen the bonds among students from diverse backgrounds and create a platform that encourages artistic expression, teamwork, and cultural understanding.

Over 40 performances across three days reflected the essence of India’s multicultural identity. The opening day saw captivating classical and folk presentations, including Sita Harana – Odissi, Adishakti, Bharatanatyam, etc., while subsequent days featured performances like Lavani, Danda Nacha, Telenganan Folk, Sambalpuri Group Dance, Nepali Nritya, Chhattisgarh ke Taar, Mohiniyattam, Braj Ki Holi, Bonalu, Leela Sangam and many more. The fashion segment VASTRAKRITI showcased ethnic attire from across India, symbolizing unity through fabric and colour. Adding to the vibrancy, several food and art stalls lined the venue, representing cuisines and crafts from various parts of India.

Prof. Rajeev Kumar Panda, President of the Student Activity Centre, NIT Rourkela, expressed immense joy in the success of the institute’s most anticipated cultural gatherings, stating that Cosmopolitan continues to serve as a cultural bridge among students from diverse linguistic and regional backgrounds.

On Sunday, the closing ceremony featured a special musical performance by student bands, followed by a vote of thanks and felicitation of performers and coordinators. Shri Lala Biren Prasad Roy, Prof. Bijay Jena, Shri Guru Ratikanta Mohapatra judged the performances. From regional folk to classical dances, dramatics to contemporary fusion, the event brought alive the spirit of “One India, Many Cultures.”