New Delhi: Hindu College marked its 127th Founder’s Day with great enthusiasm and solemnity, commemorating the rich legacy of its visionary founder, Krishna Das Gurwale. The momentous occasion paid tribute to the institution’s historic contribution to nation-building and reaffirmed its commitment to academic excellence and societal leadership.
The celebration was graced by Dr. Ajay Kumar, Chairman, Union Public Service Commission, Government of India, who attended as the Chief Guest.
Principal Prof. Anju Srivastava presented the Annual Report, highlighting the college’s year-long infrastructural advancements, significant research initiatives, and the remarkable academic accomplishments of its students, including outstanding performances in sports at both national and international levels. She also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of faculty members in the spheres of research, publications, and academic leadership. Reaffirming the institution’s enduring vision, she emphasised that Hindu College remains steadfast in its commitment to nation-building by fostering academic excellence, encouraging innovation, and nurturing a strong sense of social responsibility among its students.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ajay Kumar reflected on the historic role of Hindu Colleg
e in India’s intellectual and freedom movements. “When Hindu College was born, the question before India was simple yet profound: Can we be free? And Hindu College answered that question not just in thought, but in action,” he remarked, recalling the institution’s active role during India’s freedom struggle.
Turning to contemporary challenges, he posed a question to the young audience: “In a world changing faster than any generation has known, can we be great again? And if so, how?” He identified two transformative developments shaping India’s future: the nation’s imminent historic takeoff and the arrival of the age of Artificial Intelligence. Describing this as a watershed moment for India, he stated that Artificial Intelligence offers an unprecedented opportunity to move from scarcity to surplus, ensuring better healthcare, improved education, and enhanced nutrition for all, not just for a privileged few. He emphasized that India can achieve this transformation in a shorter time span than many developed nations did, provided the country navigates this transition intelligently and collectively.
“You are part of a 127-year legacy,” Dr Ajay Kumar told the students, “but you are not merely custodians of its memory; you are architects of its future.” He urged the institution to remain a beacon of intellectual courage, fearless debate, and human values in times of rapid technological disruption. Stressing the importance of ethical leadership in the age of AI, he remarked, “The question is not whether AI will shape India’s future; we know it will. The question is whether we will shape AI, or let AI shape us.”
The event also featured the felicitation of College and University Toppers, who were awarded by the Chief Guest for their outstanding academic achievements.
The Chief Guest Dr. Ajay Kumar also visited the student stalls showcasing a wide range of themes, including Outreach and International Collaborations, Research and Innovation, Skill Development, Student Progression, Sustainable Practices, Diversity and Inclusivity, Ideation and Innovation, Personality Development, Startups and Entrepreneurship, NCC, NSS, and Sports. He highly appreciated the students’ creativity, dedication, and hard work, and commended their efforts in presenting innovative ideas with clarity and confidence
The celebrations concluded with vibrant cultural performances presented by various student societies, captivating the audience and reflecting the dynamic creative spirit of the campus.
