Bodh Gaya: IIM Bodh Gaya’s annual cultural and sports fest, Elegante 8.0, brought together students from leading institutions across the country to celebrate the theme of “Abhyudaya,” symbolizing progress and the institute’s forward-thinking vision. The three-day extravaganza, featuring over 35 events, saw participation from prestigious institutes such as NSIT Patna, IMI Kolkata, St. Xavier’s Patna, and IIM Ranchi.
Inauguration and Day One Highlights
The festival commenced with an inaugural ceremony attended by Dr. Vinita S. Sahay, Director of IIM Bodh Gaya, and the Chief Guest, Anand Kumar, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Gaya. Emphasizing the institute’s core value of mindfulness, the Chief Guest underscored its relevance in fostering holistic development.
Dr. Srilekha Mishra, Chairperson of Student Affairs, delivered the welcome address, acknowledging the efforts of students, societies, and clubs in organizing the event. The festival was officially declared open with the introduction of the participating sports teams.
The first day featured an array of sports events, with robust participation: 50 participants from IIM Ranchi, 70 from St. Xavier’s College of Management & Technology, Patna, 70 from NIT Patna, 30 from IMI Kolkata, and 20 from NSIT Patna. Other activities included an online gaming competition, a simulation of the International Court of Justice, and creative workshops in pottery and painting. The day concluded with cultural performances showcasing the diverse talents of the participants.
Events on Day Two
The second day saw a mix of competitive and cultural activities, including quizzing, policy case competitions, and painting contests. The highlight of the day was the Navyata Fashion Show, with participation from the Indian Institute of Design and Technology (IDT), Muzaffarpur, NSIT Patna, and IIM Bodh Gaya.
The evening featured solo singing performances, followed by The Story Tellers, IIM Bodh Gaya’s official music band, captivating the audience with their melodies. The day ended on a high note with a live performance by Band Aazaadi.
Republic Day and the Grand Finale
The final day began with Republic Day celebrations. The National Flag was hoisted by Dr. Vinita S. Sahay, accompanied by the National Anthem. The CSR Committee organized a marathon, ‘Edurun,’ to raise awareness about rural education. Over 800 participants, including students, faculty, and officers from the Bihar Institute of Public Administration and Rural Development (BIPARD) and Officers Training Academy (OTA), took part in the 8.5 km run, which covered the Academic Block, Magadh University Campus, and Maya Sarovar Lake.
Supported by State Bank of India (SBI), Coca-Cola, Union Bank, and Rasta Cafe, the marathon aimed to highlight the importance of collective efforts in promoting accessible education.
Post the Republic Day festivities, the festival continued with sports competitions and cultural programs. The valedictory session, graced by Municipal Commissioner, Kumar Anurag, celebrated student achievements in sports such as cricket, football, basketball, table tennis, and chess, among others. Cultural awards followed, recognizing outstanding performances across various events.
The festival concluded with a DJ night and dance performances, marking the end of Elegante 8.0.
A Platform for Exchange and Sportsmanship
Elegante 8.0, with its diverse range of activities, served as a vibrant platform for cultural exchange, camaraderie, and sportsmanship. The fest not only celebrated talent and creativity but also embodied the institute’s commitment to progress and holistic development.
