The Department of Inter-Religious Studies celebrated the festive season with “Gift Culture Week” from December 8th to 11th, a multi-day initiative designed to promote mindfulness, creativity, gratitude, forgiveness, and generosity. Through a series of interactive stations set up in the college woods, students were invited to engage in reflective and expressive activities that embodied the spirit of giving both to others and to oneself.

Throughout the week, the stations attracted consistent participation from students across the college. Gift Culture Week successfully cultivated a campus culture of empathy, creativity, and generosity, leaving participants with tangible keepsakes, lighter hearts, and a strengthened sense of community during the holiday season. A special highlight was the gracious presence of alumni Joel Alexander, one of the original establishers of the Gift Culture Week tradition. His visit added immense value, inspiring team with stories of how the initiative began and its enduring impact on campus culture. 

CHARKHA WORKSHOP 

On 16th January 2026, the Department of Inter-Religious Studies organized a tranquil Charkha Making Workshop at the historic Mani Bhavan in Mumbai. Around 30 students from diverse academic streams gathered with open hearts and curious minds. Under the patient and skillful guidance of charkha experts from the Mani Bhavan museum, the young participants embarked on a meditative journey of learning the ancient art of spinning cotton.

The workshop was more than a skill-building session; it became a peaceful immersion into the Gandhian principles of self-reliance, simplicity, and harmony with one’s hands and heart. 

Following the hands-on practice, the participants explored the sacred spaces of Mani Bhavan. Walking softly through the rooms where Gandhiji once lived and worked, they absorbed the profound essence of his life and philosophy. The modest exhibits, photographs, and personal artifacts evoked a quiet reverence, allowing each student to connect with the eternal message of non-violence, truth, and peaceful resistance.

The workshop concluded with a shared sense of fulfillment and serenity. Many students expressed how the gentle rhythm of the charkha and the tranquil atmosphere of Mani Bhavan had left them feeling grounded, inspired, and deeply at peace. The event beautifully reaffirmed the relevance of Gandhian values in today’s fast-paced world, reminding everyone that true strength often lies in simplicity and mindful action.