Three-Day Art Camp at Prayagraj
NIU Students shine at “Shiva Fest” in Mahakumbh 26th February 2025, contributing India Book of Record Fest
Students from School of Fine Arts & Design at Noida International University, showcased their talent artistic excellence and dedication at the prestigious “Shiva Festival” in Mahakumbh Prayagraj, a grand celebration of art and spirituality. With an impressive participation of 72 NIU students, made a significant contribution to a historic feat- painting 108 forms of Lord Shiva in just108 minutes. This remarkable achievement has been officially recorded in India Book of Records, in collaboration with Ministry of Culture and Lalit Kala Academy, marking a proud moment for the university.
This record-breaking feat not only highlights the artistic skills of NIU students but alsounderlines their deep connection to India’s cultural and spiritual heritage. The university takes immense pride in fostering such talent and providing students with opportunities to contribute to nationally recognize artistic milestones.
Day 1: Arrival and Ganga Aarti
On the evening of February 25, we arrived at the Art Residential Camp in Prayagraj. Upon settling in, the students had the opportunity to witness the serene and spiritually enriching Ganga Aarti at the ghat, marking the beginning of an inspiring and immersive experience.
Day 2: Yoga, Sangam Visit, and Shiva Festival
The second day, February 26, commenced with an invigorating yoga and pranayama session at 5:00 AM, fostering mindfulness and focus among the participants. Following this, the students proceeded to the Sangam for a holy dip in the Ganga, embracing the spiritual significance of the location.
The highlight of the day was the Shiva Festival, where 108 artists collaboratively painted 108 names of Lord Shiva within 108 minutes, creating a remarkable masterpiece that embodied both devotion and artistic excellence. Students from Noida International University (NIU) played a significant role in this event, making history by accomplishing a stunning live painting session within the same time frame.
A total of 72 students from the School of Fine Arts and Design, Noida International University participated in this grand celebration at Parmarth Ashram, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Lalit Kala Akademi. The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Swami Chidanand Saraswati Ji and Bhagwati Saraswati Ji, who inspired and motivated the students through their words of wisdom.
As a token of appreciation, each participating student received a gift hamper and a cash reward of ₹500 from Lalit Kala Akademi. The day concluded with a lunch sponsored by the Reliance Foundation, providing a warm gesture of support for the young artists.
Day 3: Yoga, Sketching, and Departure
On February 27, the final day of the camp, students began their morning with another yoga session, followed by sketching and interactive discussions, fostering creativity and artistic exchange. The camp concluded on a reflective note, and in the evening, the students departed for Greater Noida, carrying with them invaluable experiences and newfound inspiration.
Event/artical Published in several newspaper , below are the link
https://simhasthakumbhmela.com/shiva-fest-mahakumbh-2025-record/news
Conclusion
The three-day Art Camp at Prayagraj was a resounding success, providing students with a holistic blend of spirituality, culture, and artistic expression. The collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Lalit Kala Akademi enriched the participants’ learning experience, while the presence of revered spiritual leaders added a profound dimension to the event. This initiative not only honed the creative abilities of the students but also instilled in them a deeper appreciation for India’s rich artistic and spiritual heritage.
Dean & Director SOFAD- Dr. Nihar Das
Faculty Coordinators- Mr.Saket Kumar Singh, Ms. Anjali Sharma, Ms. Mani Nandani Sharma, Mr. Akash Biswas ,Mr. Narendra Kumar ( office executive)
Total number of SOFAD Students participated – 72 Students
