Pune: Symbiosis College’s English Literary Association Inaugurates the Academic Year 2025–26 with Enthusiasm and Vision
Reported by Devapriya K J
Pune, 18 July 2025: The English Literature Association of Symbiosis College of Arts and Commerce laid another foundation to their cultural and literary activities for the academic year 2025-26 with a grand inaugural ceremony on July 17 in the college auditorium. The event was graced by the presence of esteemed Dr. Ashok Thorat, a prominent literary scholar and the former Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Pune University. Dr. Ashok is also the founder of The Institute of Advanced Studies in English and has over 22 years of experience.
The students and faculty members opened the event with a beautiful recitation of a poem and Ganesh Vandana, which added a spiritual grace and positivity to the occasion. The event was then followed by the lighting of lamps by Dr. Tessy Thadathil, the officiating Principal of Symbiosis College of Arts and Commerce; Dr. Anil Adagale, the Head of the English Department of Symbiosis College of Arts and Commerce; and the Chief Guest, Dr. Ashok Thorat, who invoked divine blessings.
With the conclusion of the welcoming note, the Association took the audience back to the crowning achievements of the Academic Year 2024–25. This included a dynamic range of initiatives like the Hogwarts Homecoming, Poetry Jam Session, Illustration Competition, Multiple Field Visits, Annual Magazine – INSPIRIA, Film Screening and Book Discussion, Guest Lectures/Workshops, and the most anticipated event of the year – SYMPHORIA, the annual literary fest which made audience to explore the theme subculture. Beside the exciting programmes, this year some new initiatives are introduced by ELA, including the introduction of two value-added courses for the students – Introduction to German Basics and Developing Business and Intercultural Communication Skills, which help students develop skills beyond literature. This showcases the insightful approach of the association towards the students, encouraging the creative expression of students from all backgrounds.
The main highlight of the ELA calendar 2024-25 was the International Conference on The Role of Language, Literature and Culture in the Contemporary World, held on 27th January 2025. The conference witnessed an overwhelming response, drawing scholars and presenters from across India as well as countries such as Oman, Sri Lanka, Germany, Japan, and the United States. With over 200paper presentations, the conference was a vibrant exchange of ideas and perspectives on the evolving role of the humanities in today’s world. In recognition of the quality and diversity of research, selected papers were published in three volumes of the Special Issue of LangLit research journal.
The moment of achievement also included the book unveiling ceremony of “The Discursive Nexus-Volume 1, Issue 2” an ISSN-certified, peer-reviewed, international and interdisciplinary research journal. The ceremony was presided over by the chief guest, Dr. Ashok Thorat, coordinated by Dr. Tessy Thadathil and Dr. Anil Adagale. This publication of this journal brings together critical thought, scholarly engagement, and diverse voices from across the academic spectrum..
Dr. Ashok Thorat’s speech on Digital Humanities was one of the main highlights of the event. His speech mainly emphasized the use of technological tools and methods to study, analyse, and present a literature/research topic. Dr. Throat pointed out the importance of digital technologies to the students as a way to explore the world of literature. His speech not only had an impact on the students but also stirred them deeply.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, appreciating every member of the club who put effort into making the event a grand success. With this new beginning, ELA is setting the stage for a year filled with words, creativity, and, moreover, a community filled with core memories and laughter.
