Meliora 2025: A Celebration of Literary Brilliance

Jemima Jim Mathew 24ENGA04 (Member of Writers' Association), Kristu Jayanti College, Autonomous

Meliora is the Latin word for better or the pursuit of improvement. Representing the spirit of growth and excellence, it is an appropriate title for our intra-collegiate literary fest, which is conducted to appreciate critical thinking, creativity, innovation, and self-expression. The fest allowed young writers, poets, and performers to come together and combine art and intellect. With a vibrant lineup of interactive and unique events, Meliora truly celebrated literary pursuits.

Inauguration Ceremony
The fest began with an Invocation, praying for blessings from the almighty and setting the tone for the day. Mr. Simeon Hanesh, the Student Coordinator of the Writer's Association, presented the welcome Address. He warmly greeted the audience and highlighted the significance of this literary fest and how it would nurture literary talents. Fr. Joshy Mathew, the Director of the Library and Information Centre, Human Resources, and Head of the Department of English, presided over the official Release of the Newsletter. The newsletter encapsulated the fest's ethos as it represented the vibrant creativity of the participants and organizers. Dr. Briji Jose, Assistant Professor of English, presented the Meliora Concept Note, which eloquently articulated the vision behind the fest. She underlined how the event symbolizes growth, creativity, and the power of words in transforming perspectives. Fr. Joshy Mathew delivered the inaugural Address again and praised the Writers' Association, which curated this platform for students to explore their literary talents. His motivational words urged participants to make the most of all the opportunities ahead. The ceremony ended with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Ms. Taochirenla Longkumer, another Student Coordinator of the Writers' Association, thanking everyone who contributed to the fest's success. The event was hosted seamlessly by the Master of Ceremony, Xalxo Raonak Linus, whose energy and enthusiasm kept the audience engaged.

Competitive Events
The fest evolved into a series of exciting competitions to test the participants' creativity and intellect.
1. Rhyme Rendezvous
Ananya Subramanian headed this solo poetry competition, where participants let loose their creative potential. Rhyme Rendezvous celebrated poetic expression, allowing seasoned poets and newcomers to showcase their linguistic flair. The event saw a spectrum of emotions and artistry, from free-verse poems to intricate rhymes, enthralling the audience.

2. The Write Move
Conducted by Richie Varghese, The Write Move was a team event that required strategy, innovation, and storytelling. Participants were given real-world challenges and asked to develop thought-provoking narratives around assigned topics. The event required teamwork, critical thinking, and a flair for impactful storytelling, resulting in a captivating display of originality.

3. Flip the Script
Allen Jose headed this event; this competition urged them to give some meaning to usual tales. Being very particular about innovation and imagination, this contest released participants from familiar narratives, helping them produce fresh adaptations of shared stories and new approaches to plot development.

4. Spoken Word Showdown
Curated by Dhriti Chopra, this event featured original spoken poetry. The performances were delivered with heartfelt passion, creativity, and emotional depth as the participants focused on connecting with the audience. The performances ranged from 2 to 5 minutes, and the passionate delivery, props, and costumes left a lasting impact.

5. The Great Meme Off
Blesson led this lighthearted yet innovative competition in which participants were given an on-the-spot meme template and prompt. Contestants had to create funny, contemporary, and original memes within a given time frame. The event brought fun and modernity to the fest, and people loved it.

Valedictory Ceremony
The festival concluded with a formal Valedictory Ceremony. The session was opened with an Invocation and Welcome Address by Dr. Arya Mol, Assistant Professor of English. Fr. Jais V. Thomas, the Financial Administrator and Director of Jayantian Extension Services, gave the Valedictory Address, complimented the participants for their brilliant contributions, and motivated them to pursue excellence in literature further. Dr. L. Santhosh Kumar, Assistant Professor of English, declared the long-awaited Results while complimenting the winners on their excellent performances in all the activities. The three-day fest ended with Ms. Lekha Ramyaa, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, giving a Vote of Thanks and the National Anthem and ending it on a nostalgic note.

Meliora broke the walls of the departmental divisions, creating a place where students from various disciplines could gather to celebrate the power of words, creativity, and collaboration. The fest invited participants from all corners of the college, and in doing so, it gave a sense of unity and mutual appreciation, showing that literary expression has no boundaries. From inspiring writings, memorable poems, or the funny memes created, Meliora had the opportunity for all students to highlight and share their creative talents. It was not just a departmental fest but one wherein the college, in its totality, celebrates spirit and creativity together to strive for excellence. Meliora created an environment that was both inviting and inspiring, allowing students to sit calmly, immerse themselves in the events, and freely express their thoughts and creativity. The fest's friendly environment encouraged open dialogue, fostering a sense of camaraderie among participants from various departments. The space was filled with mutual respect and enthusiasm, whether through sharing poetry, collaborating on narratives, or engaging in lighthearted meme-making. This informal yet organized environment meant that people did not fear judgment but felt comfortable expressing themselves and blossoming in their ideas, friendships, and creativity. Meliora embodies creativity, wherein the students can come together through beautiful literature and voice themselves. It would thusly become the name to be lived through innovation and intellectual growth, thus making it a striving participant towards every "better" end.