Hajipur: The Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Hajipur ushered in the festive season with a grand Pre-Christmas celebration on its campus on Friday. The event was marked by cultural vibrancy, culinary excellence, and a strong sense of community, bringing together students, faculty, and distinguished guests in a heartwarming gathering.
The day began with the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree, a symbol of unity and goodwill, attended by notable dignitaries including Ms. Shailja, ASP (P), Vaishali; Gaurav Shandilya, General Manager of Hotel Lemon Tree, Patna; and Ajitab Kumar, Director of B.D. Public School, Hajipur.
Following the inauguration, a cultural program showcased a delightful mix of carol singing, skits, and dance performances by IHM Hajipur’s talented students. The performances embodied the institute’s inclusive ethos while capturing the festive spirit of Christmas.
The highlight of the celebration was a Gala Lunch, meticulously prepared by students under the guidance of their faculty mentors. The menu featured an impressive array of traditional Christmas dishes, including roast duck, whole roasted lamb, plum cake, and a variety of bakery items and festive mocktails. Innovative culinary offerings like vegan mushroom Wellington, chicken bourguignon meatloaf, spinach broccoli lasagne, lamb slang, pâté de croûte, old-fashioned doughnuts, and Christmas lunch pie added to the festive feast.
The event’s seamless execution was a testament to the students’ dedication, with first-year students handling decorations and cultural events, second-year students managing food and beverage services, and third-year students overseeing the kitchen preparations.
Principal of IHM Hajipur, Pulak Mandal, highlighted the significance of the event, saying, “This celebration embodies the spirit of togetherness and joy that defines Christmas. It also reflects our students’ commitment to excellence in hospitality and cultural expression. Such events enrich their learning and prepare them for the dynamic hospitality industry.”
Sumit Chatterjee, Head of the Department, emphasized the values of the season, saying, “Christmas reminds us of the importance of giving, sharing, and unity. Today’s event exemplifies these values and inspires us to carry them forward.”
The celebration also included a special musical performance by lecturer Sandipan Sankrityayan, who played a selection of songs on the guitar at the students’ request, further elevating the joyous atmosphere.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by HoD Kalyan Mukherjee and the exchange of Christmas greetings. Guests, including industry representatives and dignitaries, praised the students for their creativity and professionalism.
Assistant Administrative Officer Murtaza Kamal noted, “Programs like these equip our students with practical skills and prepare them to excel as hospitality professionals globally. Our alumni have carried the institution’s flag high across the world, a testament to the quality of education here.”
