Masquerade-themed farewell marks send-off for St Francis College students
HYDERABAD: St Francis College for Women, Begumpet, hosted a masquerade-themed farewell for its outgoing batch, bringing together students, faculty and guests for an evening of performances, awards and reflections.
The event was attended by alumna and Padma Shri awardee Deepika Reddy, a Kuchipudi dancer and founder of the Deepanjali Institute of Kuchipudi. The programme celebrated the academic journey and achievements of graduating students.
Principal highlights authenticity and self-discovery among students
Principal T Uma Joseph spoke on the symbolism of masquerade, tracing its origins to the Renaissance and linking it to identity and self-expression. “While masks may add charm to an afternoon like this, they are not something we need in real life. Each one of you has spent years discovering who you are,” she said.
She added that success comes from self-acceptance. “You do not need a mask to belong,” she said, encouraging students to embrace individuality.
Chief guest recalls college days, stresses ‘three P’s’ principle
Deepika Reddy recalled her own farewell at the college four decades ago and said the institution’s spirit remained unchanged. Referring to her journey in Kuchipudi, she said, “There are three P’s one must follow—Passion, Perseverance and Partnership. Teamwork will make you shine. There is no ‘I’, always a ‘We’. Work hard. Sadhana is key.”
She urged students to act with integrity and said they would shape the nation’s future. “Sthri Shakthi will always shine,” she added.
The college felicitated members of the Student Council, National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS), and sports achievers. Founder’s prizes and academic awards were also presented. BA PPP and MSc Microbiology were named Best Class, while Sara Saiju received the Student of the Year award.
The Ms Francis competition was judged by Harsha Tallapragada, a runway model and FDCI Model Hunt 2021 finalist, and Bhavana Sirpa, Miss Diva Telangana 2020 finalist. Titles were awarded to Cilamkoti Kathyaeni (UG) and Spurthi Sharma (PG). B Siri Chandana was first runner-up and Raga Chandrika second runner-up.
Special titles included Kunjana Ganguly (Best Dressed), Bhavika Adwani (Most Talented), and Sarah Shaiju (Vivacious). The event concluded with cultural performances and celebrations.
