“Language learning is not just about mastering vocabulary but about fostering meaningful connections where every voice is valued,” said Prof. C. Muthamizhchelvan, Vice Chancellor of SRMIST. The audience was enthralled by the soulful performance of Padma Bhushan Dr. K. S. Chitra, the chief guest at the 3rd Edition of Languages Day 2025, organised by the Department of English and Foreign Languages, SRMIST-KTR.

The event brought together students and scholars to explore the power of languages through competitions, cultural performances, and interactive language booths curated by BTech students, EFL faculty, and research scholars. The chief guest inaugurated the booths, followed by a Bharatanatyam performance and the release of “Echoes of Melody: A Celebration of Her Musical Legacy,” honouring Dr. Chitra’s illustrious career.

The event was presided over by:

• Prof. C. Muthamizhchelvan, Vice Chancellor, SRMIST
• Dr. S. Ponnusamy, Registrar, SRMIST
• Prof. Dr. T. V. Gopal, Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, SRMIST
• Dr. L. Kavitha Nair, Professor and Head, Department of English and Foreign Languages, SRMIST

In her Welcome Address, Dr. L. Kavitha Nair, Professor and Head, the Department of EFL, emphasised the role of languages in fostering global connections and highlighted the significance of linguistic diversity in shaping societies. She underscored how language transcends barriers, fostering unity and understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. C. Muthamizhchelvan, in his Felicitation Address, elaborated on how languages shape thought, bridge cultures, and build inclusive communities. He reiterated that language learning is not just about mastering vocabulary and grammar but about fostering meaningful connections where every voice is valued.

A key highlight of the celebration was the address by Dr. K.S. Chitra, where she reminisced about her early career and how the legendary Dr. S. P. Balasubrahmanyam mentored her in Telugu, enabling her to reach audiences beyond her native language. As a special gesture, she delighted the audience with a mesmerising live performance, creating an unforgettable experience.

The event was the culmination of a week-long Languages Day competition, conducted both online and offline, celebrating linguistic excellence and creativity. A variety of competitions, ranging from elocution, essay writing, poetry recitation, and multilingual storytelling to quiz contests and theatrical performances, engaged participants from across disciplines.

This celebration aligns with the Matrubhasha Diwas initiative by the Government of India, reaffirming SRMIST’s commitment to multilingualism and cultural preservation. The event concluded with a formal Vote of Thanks, acknowledging the efforts of faculty, students, volunteers, and support teams who contributed to its success.

The Languages Day Celebration 2025 once again proved to be a dynamic platform for academic discourse, cultural exchange, and linguistic appreciation, reinforcing SRMIST’s commitment to promoting language learning, research, and artistic expression at a global level.