TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
From the Dean of Students
CAMPUS
HAPPENINGS
Movies and TV shows Quiz - Faction
General Quiz - Faction
Debate on Menstrual Leave Policy - Debsoc
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Discussion - Stimulus
Hyundai IPO - Vittartha
GSOC Unfiltered - GDSC
Treasure Hunt - Mythia
Snifty - Finvest
Business Conclave - Inspiria
Egg- Drop Challenge - Design Club
Jalsa - Breeze
Highlights from SNUQC
Panel Discussion - Genesis
Gamenight and Stargazing - Celestia x Mnemon
Lokanjali - Spic Macay
Collection Drive - Fetch
Heathers - CineU
SURGE 2024
UNIVERSITY RECESS
FROMTHEDE OFSTUDENTS
November was a busy month, with lots of activity on campus Our sports teams and clubs were very active. It was good to see students busy planning and organising numerous events on campus. The campus came alive for three days with over 1800 participants, external and our own, vying for honours in football, volleyball, basketball, cricket, tennis, squash, badminton, table tennis, athletics and chess during ‘Surge 2024’. Kudos to our University athletes and teams for their effort and for winning honours in different events. Good work by our team of coaches, and newly joined Sports Head, Mr Randeep Baruah, made it a memorable event Organising a big event with a few thousand participants is no mean task. My compliments to Team Surge for their hard work and effort to ensure that this important annual university event went off smoothly From the trip-ups and failures, I hope you have taken valuable experience and learning that will, I am sure, stand you in good stead through life in and beyond college. There is no short cut to a job well done, and it shows, either way.
As we bid adieu to November, there is a noticeable change in the weather The change in season, with colder mornings and nights, punctuated by welcoming daytime sunshine, has been welcomed with hoodies, jackets and scarves. Some of you have started enjoying the central vista lawn in the afternoon, and a hug in the canopies feels warmer and more welcome!
The change of seasons is characteristic of nature and of life Just as different seasons feel different and call out different emotions in us, so too, at an individual and personal level, does the way we use our time and energy, from day to day. “There is a time to sow, and a time to reap.” If we do not mind the seasons, the call of the hour, the proverbial “time to sow”, and attend to what needs to be done, at work or in our personal lives, the outcome will be poor when it is “the time to reap”. Whether it is putting in regular work at your project or assignments, or showing up for team training in sports, investing in building supportive and nurturing relationships, or ensuring you attend classes, at each step of your journey, you need to mind of what seeds of action you need to ‘sow’ in order to ‘reap’ the result you want to. Most of you do a good job ‘minding the seasons’, but there are some who need to become more mindful of what they are ‘sowing’, and when All the best to all students for their end semester exams. You will soon return home for the semester break. Have a good holiday!
Steve Ismail
Dean of Students Brigadier
FACTION MOVIESANDTVSHOWSQUIZ
On 11th November 2024, FACTion brought the glitz and glamour of the screen to the campus with its Movies & TV Shows Quiz. Hosted by the dynamic quizmaster Kavyaa Kannan, the event celebrated the world of cinema and television, attracting an enthusiastic crowd of movie buffs and binge-watchers
The quiz featured an exciting mix of questions, ranging from iconic dialogues and memorable scenes to lesser-known trivia from the world of Hollywood, Bollywood, and popular TV series. Laughter, camaraderie, and thrilling moments filled the room as participants raced against the clock to answer.
FACTION GENERALQUIZ
FACTion’s much-anticipated general quiz, Gen Gen Wala, held on 13th November 2024, was a roaring success!
Quizmaster Parth Jhunjhunwala kept the audience on their toes with a captivating mix of questions spanning history, pop culture, science, and sports. The vibrant energy in D217 was contagious as teams battled it out for the top spot, prizes and some yum treats!!
The event showcased incredible participation, with students displaying remarkable knowledge and quick thinking. From nail-biting tiebreakers to hilarious moments, the quiz had it all! FACTion truly delivered a fun, stress-relieving evening that left participants eagerly awaiting the next quiz.
DEBSOC
DEBATEONMENSTRUALLEAVEPOLICY
On 12th November 2024, the Debating Society hosted an impactful discussion on the motion: “This House would implement a menstrual leave policy in SNU”. The debate was a dynamic exchange of ideas, and proponents emphasized the importance of recognizing menstrual health as a legitimate concern, advocating for policies that prioritize student and employee well-being. Opponents, while acknowledging the significance of the issue, debated the practical challenges and potential stigmatization
The discussion sparked meaningful dialogue among attendees, inspiring thoughtful reflection on how institutions can evolve to support equality and health.
STIMULUS BHARATIYANYAYASANHITADISCUSSION
On 14th November, the room became a hub of intellectual discussion as students gathered to explore the intricacies of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, a vital part of India’s legal framework The session sparked engaging conversations, with participants analyzing how this cornerstone influences justice, fairness, and accountability in modern India. The discussion offered a platform for diverse perspectives, from legal enthusiasts to curious learners, creating a vibrant exchange of ideas. Thought-provoking questions and lively discussions kept the audience captivated throughout the evening
VITTARTHA HYUNDAIIPO
On 13th November, finance enthusiasts gathered to unpack the fascinating story behind Hyundai's highly anticipated IPO. Touted as the “Largest IPO in India,” it shocked many by listing at a discount, with undersubscription in the retail and NII categories adding to the intrigue The session, taken over by Dhruvakarsh Kunala and Janardhan Balaji offered a deep dive into the complexities of IPOs, explaining key concepts like NIIs and undersubscription in an accessible way for both beginners and seasoned market followers Participants explored the factors contributing to the IPO’s unexpected performance and discussed its implications for future market trends.
GDSC GSOCUNFILTERED
GDSC hosted an inspiring edition of its Unfiltered Series on 18th November, this time spotlighting the prestigious Google Summer of Code (GSoC) The event featured three accomplished GSoC alumni Abhishek Soni, Aayush Badoni, and Shivansh Singh sharing unfiltered insights from their journeys.
They offered practical tips for crafting standout GSoC applications, selecting the right projects, and navigating the world of open-source contributions Their honest accounts, from overcoming technical challenges to achieving breakthroughs, captivated the audience. The session also served as a valuable networking opportunity, with students exchanging ideas and building connections to prepare for GSoC 2025. Attendees left inspired and equipped with actionable strategies to kick-start their open-source journeys
MYTHIYA TREASUREHUNT
The Mythological and Folklore Society, Mythiya, brought ancient prophecies to life with Boons of Fate, Curses of Destiny a thrilling treasure hunt that challenged participants to navigate the myths of Greek and Hindu lore. Teams ventured down the path of Janus’ Duality or explored the Boons and Curses of old, deciphering intricate clues and making strategic choices. The event combined mythological intrigue with interactive fun, drawing enthusiastic participants eager to solve riddles and win the grand prize of ₹1,000 per path. Mythiya delivered a captivating experience, where history and adventure blended seamlessly into a quest to remember!
FINVEST SNIFTY
This month also saw the much-anticipated return of SNIFTY, the campus's signature mock stock competition that brought a refreshing break from the semester’s stress. Participants traded not on traditional stocks but on SNU’s very own businesses, testing their knowledge of the campus economy to build the ultimate portfolio. The event blended excitement and strategy, with free Burgrill snacks keeping energy levels high and a substantial prize pool adding to the thrill. Whether a finance enthusiast or just looking for fun, students enjoyed the perfect mix of competition and camaraderie SNIFTY was a hit, proving that trading hard and snacking harder is the recipe for a truly profitable break.
The Business Conclave 2024, held on 9th November, was an unforgettable experience that brought together industry leaders, influencers, and ambitious minds. The day began with impactful keynote sessions by Mr. Atul Ujagar, Former MD, Nike Sourcing Indiaw and Mr. Rohit Kapoor, CEO of Food Marketplace at Swiggy, who shared invaluable insights on leadership and innovation
Attendees engaged in close-up interactions at Canopy Conversations with Trailblazers and Industry Experts like Mr. Karan Ahluwalia, Ms. Aanchal Saini, Ms. Aakriti Bansal, and Ms. Monica Dhawan, while Mr. Dharam's workshop provided tools for personal branding and following passions. An offbeat roundtable featured the likes of Aishwarya Singh and Aryaan Misra of Desi Crime Podcast, and digital storyteller Mallika Motiramani, sparking meaningful discussions The evening ended on a high note with a mesmerizing Corporate Gala, featuring a soulful performance by singer-songwriter Anubha Bajaj.
With competitions, networking opportunities, and take-home goodies, the Conclave delivered an enriching and memorable experience for all.
BUSINESS CONCLAVE
DESIGNCLUB EGG-DROPCHALLENGE
The Design Club hosted the much-awaited Egg Drop Challenge on November 7, bringing together innovation, teamwork, and a touch of suspense. Participants crafted unique contraptions to protect their eggs from the ultimate test a thrilling drop! Whether seasoned design enthusiasts or curious first-timers, all enjoyed the creative buzz and the lighthearted competition. The evening was packed with laughter, ingenious designs, and the excitement of seeing which eggs survived the fall. With exciting prizes for the most inventive and effective creations, the event was a cracking success, leaving everyone egg-static and inspired!
BREEZE JALSA
On November 8, BREEZE brought the campus alive with JALSA, an unforgettable celebration that swept away the post-Diwali blues in style. The Library Lawn was transformed into a lively hub of music, games, and cultural flair as students arrived dressed in stunning ethnic or Indo-Western outfits, ready to light up the night.
The evening offered something for everyone thrilling games like Uno, Jenga, and Monodeal brought out the competitive spirit, while delicious chaat and traditional sweets ensured no one left hungry Friends gathered around tables, laughing and savoring the festive atmosphere, while the music grew louder, setting the stage for a vibrant dance floor where grooves and moves stole the show.
Adding to the excitement, JALSA was also the momentous occasion for the grand theme reveal of BREEZE 2025, leaving everyone buzzing with anticipation From dazzling outfits to pulsating beats, and from nostalgic games to shared meals, JALSA proved to be more than just an event it was a night to celebrate community, culture, and sheer joy.
HIGHLIGHTSFROM SNUQC
November was a vibrant and impactful month for the SNU Queer Collective (SNUQC), marked by events celebrating inclusivity, solidarity, and queer visibility The community came together for the annual Unfurling of the Pride Flag, a powerful reminder of inclusivity and diversity in sexuality and gender identities. This was followed by the Rainbow Tree Rethreading Ceremony, held to restore and reaffirm the Rainbow Tree as a cherished symbol of queer visibility on campus. The celebrations culminated with the much-anticipated SNU Pride Parade, where students and faculty marched in solidarity from the ISC to the rethreaded Rainbow Tree Participants showcased their creativity by designing banners, placards, and makeup before the march, transforming the day into a spirited display of allyship and pride. Together, these events reaffirmed SNU's commitment to create a supportive space for all.
GENESIS PANELDISCUSSION
On the 14th of November, Genesis: The Lifesciences Society hosted a panel discussion on the winning works of the prestigious Nobel Prize. Calling professors and students from all backgrounds and courses, this engaging and insightful discussion lasted for three good hours. What started with a brief history of the Nobel Prize and The Will of Alfred Nobel, led by Dr. Anil Challa from the Lifesciences Department then narrowed down on the discovery of microRNA and its role in post-transcriptional gene regulation. This discussion was continued by Dr. Geetanjali Chawla, an RNA Biologist from the LifeSciences Department, and Dr. Tatni Rakshit, a Bioanalytical Chemist from the Chemistry Department.
Dr. Kapil Patil, an expert on global nuclear technology politics from the IR Department, then shifted gears and engaged the audience with his perspective on the Nihon Hidankyo.
Dr. Nidhi Malhotra, a Computational Chemist from the Chemistry Department, presented her views on the Nobel Prize in Chemistry won by David Baker, Demis Hassabis, and John Jumper. The final discussion was led by Dr. Chinmay Sharma from the Department of English, an avid researcher of Cultural Studies and literature from all over the globe.
CELESTIAXMNEMON GAMENIGHTANDSTARGAZING
Last month, Mnemon and Celestia joined forces for a two-day extravaganza dedicated to astronomy and its fascinating developments The event featured a mix of interactive activities, discussions, and mesmerizing stargazing sessions that brought the mysteries of the cosmos closer to home.
Day I: Game Night and Stargazing
The first evening was all about fun and creativity, with participants designing their own constellations, experimenting with a Mayan-style pinhole camera, and exploring sky charts. Prizes added to the excitement, making the game night a delightful prelude to the stargazing session. Under the hopeful gaze of clear skies, attendees gathered to marvel at the stars, making the night unforgettable.
Day II: Discussion and Stargazing
The second evening took a more introspective turn with an engaging discussion on diverse sky cultures, the evolution of astronomy, and the unique practices of naming constellations. This was followed by another enchanting stargazing session, where participants once again connected with the vastness of the universe.
SPICMACAY LOKANJALI
The SPIC MACAY SNIoE Chapter wrapped up the semester in grand style with Lokanjali, a mesmerizing night dedicated to the vibrant culture of Rajasthani folk music and dance. Shri Khete Khan Manganiyar, a renowned artist from Rufayan Sansthan Jodhpur, along with his group, captivated the audience with soulful performances The highlight of the evening was the breathtaking Kalbeliya dance, which brought the traditions of Rajasthan to life. Attendees were immersed in the rich heritage of Indian classical arts, celebrating the timeless beauty of folk traditions in an unforgettable cultural journey.
FETCH COLLECTIONDRIVE
Last month, the campus came together in the true spirit of compassion with a collection drive for our beloved campus dogs. As winter approached, students and staff donated generously to ensure our furry friends stayed warm and cozy through the cold months. The drive saw contributions of dog jackets, blankets, bedding, toys, and other essential supplies, making a tangible difference in the lives of the campus dogs The overwhelming support from the community was a testament to the bond we share with these animals and our collective commitment to their well-being.
CINEU HEATHERS
Cinephiles gathered for a special screening of Heathers (1988), directed by Michael Lehmann, a movie that celebrated the darker side of high school drama with sharp satire and biting humor. Starring Winona Ryder and Christian Slater, this cult classic captivated the audience with its witty dialogue, rebellious spirit, and a twisted take on teenage angst. The screening offered an unforgettable cinematic experience, sparking conversations about its unique commentary on social hierarchies and the complexities of adolescence. It was an evening that blended dark comedy with thought-provoking storytelling, leaving attendees with plenty to ponder and discuss.
SURGE ANNUAL SPORTS FEST
SNIoE hosted Surge 2024, the Annual Sports Fest from November 15th to 17th, with preliminary matches starting on November 14th. This event showcased athletic talent across a 286-acre campus, bringing together over 1,800 athletes from across India. Participants competed in 15 sports, ranging from traditional games like cricket, badminton, and basketball to modern inclusions like the BGMI esports tournament, a collaboration with Krafton.
The sports complex buzzed with simultaneous events, engaging athletes and spectators alike. Students, faculty, and visitors cheered on the participants, creating an electrifying atmosphere SNU delivered a stellar performance, clinching multiple top spots in Cricket (Women), Powerlifting (Men and Women), Squash (Men), Football (Men), Badminton (Men), Basketball (Men).
The event's grand finale featured International Skeet Shooter Ms. Saniya Sheikh, who felicitated winners during the closing ceremony, followed by a lively DJ performance by Project 91.
SNIoE ensured a premium experience with comfortable accommodations, nutritious meals, and a festive ambiance. Athletes received individual accolades such as MVP and Best Player awards, emphasizing exceptional contributions Surge 2024 was a testament to sportsmanship, collaboration, and the spirit of competition, setting a benchmark for university sports fests and leaving an indelible mark on all who participated.
SPORTS PARTICIPATION
The diversity of sports at Surge 2024 was a testament to the broad athletic talents across the nation, as students from various disciplines came together for an unparalleled competitive experience. The fest witnessed remarkable participation from colleges across India in the following sports:
Badminton Men: 17 colleges, 19 teams
Badminton Women: 10 colleges, 12 teams
Basketball Men: 18 colleges, 22 teams
Basketball Women: 11 colleges, 12 teams
Chess Mixed: 11 colleges, 16 teams
Cricket Men: 15 colleges, 16 teams
Cricket Women: 3 colleges, 3 teams
Football: 19 colleges, 20 teams
Futsal: 6 colleges, 8 teams
Squash Men: 5 colleges, 7 teams
Table Tennis Men: 15 colleges, 16 teams
Table Tennis Women: 8 colleges, 8 teams
Tennis Men: 9 colleges, 13 teams
Tennis Women: 7 colleges, 8 teams
Volleyball Men: 11 colleges, 14 teams
Volleyball Women: 9 colleges, 10 teams
Powerlifting Men - 4 colleges, individual event
Powerlifting Women - 4 colleges, individual event
Athletics Men - 20 colleges, individual events
Athletics Women - 20 colleges, individual events
One of the highlights of Surge 2024 was the inclusion of esports. This year, the event embraced digital sports with the introduction of a groundbreaking BGMI tournament, held in partnership with Krafton. This was Krafton’s first collaboration with a college sports fest, adding a cutting-edge dimension to the traditional sports environment. The partnership brought a new wave of excitement to the gaming community, as esports enthusiasts competed in a thrilling, high-stakes tournament The buzz surrounding these tournaments was palpable, and it added a unique, modern flair to an otherwise traditional sports fest.
UNIVERSITYRECESS
The University will be going into recess after the Monsoon Semester 2023, commencing from December 16, 2023. The campus will reopen on January 7, 2024.
Key Points to Remember:
Hostel Operations:
The Dining Hall (DH) will function as usual. In case of low student occupancy, one DH may be closed.
Students must vacate hostels by December 15, unless they have prior approval from their respective School/Department and the Dean of Students. The required approval form must be submitted to the Dean of Students' Office by December 12, 2023.
Students with travel plans on December 16 or 17 must seek permission from their hostel wardens to stay beyond the 15th.
Rules and Regulations:
Students permitted to stay on campus during the break must adhere to all hostel rules and regulations.
Any violation of rules or acts of indiscipline may result in immediate expulsion from the campus and further disciplinary action.
Students staying back for projects or assignments must maintain punctuality and dedication to their work. Failure to do so may lead to the revocation of their stay permission
Alumni Reunion:
The University is hosting an Alumni Reunion on December 16 and 17.
Students present on campus during this period are expected to conduct themselves appropriately and maintain a respectful demeanor, especially while interacting with alumni.
In the fast-paced world we live in, it's the connections we make that truly enrich our lives. At Shiv Nadar Institution Of Eminence, we understand the power of community and the strength that comes from meaningful connections. In this edition of our newsletter, we invite you to explore the various ways you can connect with us, your fellow students, and the larger academic community.