Khelsay Toppo SJ, 2023 Batch
A Break from Routine
After our intensive mental stress during the semester examination, the SN Community Days (18-19 November 2024) allowed us to put our usual routine aside and spend quality time relaxing and sharing joy, laughter, and happiness. Various events like fun games, outdoor activities, quizzes, dances, art and music competitions, etc., brought a renewal of spirit and passion, bonded deeper connections with each other, and positively contributed to SN’s community life. Besides, it also gave space for us to recharge our mental, physical, and emotional energies.
“Ubuntu” – “I am because we are.”
The festival commenced with creative, amusing parades culminating in the official declaration of the “Ubuntu: The SN Community Days” opened by the Rector of the House. The term Ubuntu comes from the South African language, which signifies the philosophy of interconnectedness and shared humanity in the community and world at large.
Fun and Frolic
The heart of the celebration was elements of fun and frolic that rejuvenated us and raised our hearts together to create a high spirit of a festive mood. The number of events organized created immense laughter and joy to treasure for the future.
Further, we were involved in cultural events such as dance, skits and music, and fun-filled competitions, which brought a lot of spice to our community celebration. In addition, the sand art at Thiruvanmiyur Beach, which featured themes of marine life, was much loved and enjoyed by all. Our creations attracted many people around the place who admired and appreciated our art through their gestures and expressions. The creative expression of our brothers through arts fostered not only individual artistic calibre but also shared appreciation of each one’s skills and talents.
Togetherness
The activities focused on our theme promoted togetherness, the cornerstone of building a community with one heart and mind, and fostered community spirit by sharing joy and service. Most of our activities involved group participation, collective enjoyment, and celebrating each other’s achievements. This event also instilled a sense of appreciation, respect, and connectedness, cementing our bonds and knowing and understanding each other better.
Fellowship sharing
The fellowship sharing was the last event and the soul of our celebration. As the day drew closer towards dusk, our community celebration culminated with a fellowship sharing of a sumptuous meal. We sat around the campfire, and it filled our hearts with companionship and a sense of satisfaction as we continued celebrating in the rhythm of soft music.
Indeed, SN Community Days were not just activities of entertainment but also moments of building companionship, creating new memories together and fostering individual and communal growth in Satya Nilayam.