Srinagar : The University of Kashmir’s annual youth festival, Sonzal-2025, concluded on Thursday with a valedictory and prize distribution ceremony at the Convocation Complex. Organized by the Division of Youth Affairs under the Department of Students Welfare, the festival showcased a week-long display of student talent and creativity, attracting hundreds of participants from the university’s main and satellite campuses, as well as affiliated colleges across the Valley.
Throughout the festival, students engaged in various cultural, literary, and creative competitions, including quizzes, debates, elocution, and artistic activities such as painting and clay modeling. Speaking on the occasion Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan praised the students’ dedication and emphasized the festival’s role as a platform for diverse voices and emerging talent. She expressed aspirations to elevate Sonzal to a national-level event by inviting universities from across the country. Prof. Mohammad Mobin, Vice-Chancellor of Cluster University Srinagar, underscored the importance of cultural forums in fostering confident and socially aware youth. Ideel Saleem from the J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages commended the artistic talents displayed and reaffirmed the Academy’s support for such initiatives. Dean Students Welfare Prof. Pervez Ahmed highlighted the festival’s contribution to nurturing talent and expanding learning opportunities. The valedictory ceremony featured a musical performance by Kashmiri singer Irfan Bilal, enhancing the event’s vibrancy. Awards and certificates were distributed to winners, participants, and jury members, marking the festival’s successful conclusion. The event was organized with the support of sponsors including J&K Bank and the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, with Dr. Shahid Ali Khan serving as the organizing secretary.
