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ARAMBHA ’25” WELCOMES FRESHERS WITH INTERFAITH CELEBRATION
BENGALURU, July 19, 2025 – Over 220 first-year Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Commerce students received a warm and vibrant welcome today at “Arambha’25”, the college’s annual fresher induction ceremony held in the seminar hall. This year's edition stood out for its deeply inclusive interfaith format, accentuating the celebration with cultural richness.

The ceremony was honoured by the presence of Mr Jigmey Tsultrim, Chief Representative Officer (CRO) of the Tibetan Settlement South Zone, who served as the Chief Guest. Mr Tsultrim, who took on the CRO role in Bengaluru in March 2022, brings with him a strong history of advocacy and community-building He was joined by Geshe Nyima Wangchuk, a respected Buddhist monk, as the Guest of Honour.

The day began with an opening remark by Dr Vincent A, Vice President of the college, followed by a stirring address by Dr Fr. Alphonse Fernandes SJ, the Principal. Dr Fernandes drew a powerful parallel between the students' academic journey and the foundation of the new college building—both requiring strength, care, and attention to grow into enduring structures.

A central highlight was the interfaith prayer session. Geshe Wangchuk offered blessings in Tibetan, invoking spiritual serenity. Dr Fernandes followed with prayers in English, symbolising unity through diversity.

In his keynote, Mr Tsultrim shared a poignant account of the Tibetan exile—emphasising resilience and the values of community. He urged students to immerse themselves in the institution’s history, internalise its guiding principles, and carry them forward through their academic and personal lives. He concluded by wishing them a productive and transformative college experience.

Guests received tokens of gratitude, including mementos, traditional shawls, and books, presented by college dignitaries. Faculty and staff members were formally introduced to the new cohort, reinforcing the sense of institutional support.

The ceremony drew to a close with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Mr Lazaus Lepcha, the convener of Arambha ’25, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, guests, staff, and students for making the event a meaningful start to the academic year.

"Arambha ’25" was more than just a welcome—it was a celebration of unity, spiritual depth, and shared aspirations. With its blend of ceremonial richness, interfaith respect, and motivational speeches, the event set a vibrant tone for students embarking on their higher education journey in in Loyola Degree College.