The Xaverian spirit of remaining in unison forever was witnessed when St. Xavier’s University Kolkata Alumni Association (SXUKAA) hosted the first-ever Alumni Reunion (Xav-Milan) on February 11, 2023. The campus was abuzz with a festive atmosphere; it witnessed an overwhelming response from its proud alumni who came together to reminisce about their time spent at this prestigious institution.

The event began with Rev. Fr. John Felix Raj, S.J., Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, SXUK and President, SXUKAA, welcoming the alumni and alumnae with a nostalgic note of homecoming. Rev. Fr. Jeyaraj Veluswamy, SJ, the first Chancellor and Rev. Fr. John Felix Raj, SJ, the Founder Vice-Chancellor of SXUK were felicitated by SXUKAA on the occasion.

Father Veluswamy spoke about how this institution grew within a few years. “I still remember when Father Raj had expressed his vision of building St. Xavier’s University, Kolkata and today to see this institution achieve success in academics and research couldn't have been possible without the blessings of the God and the untiring support of teachers, students and alumni association which brings the concrete structure of brick and sand to life.”

Fr. Dominic Savio, Principal of St. Xavier’s College, Calcutta was also present at the meet. The Governing Body members of SXUKAA led by the Hony. Secretary, Mr. Vatsal Chirimar, were also felicitated on the occasion. Emotions ran high as old friends bonded and faculty members reunited with their mentees.

Proceedings took a musical turn with The Loko Express, a popular band in Kolkata, setting the mood performing a variety of hits from different genres, getting the crowd grooving and singing along to the tunes. Following the band performance, a DJ night was organized. Another highlight of the evening was the sumptuous dinner. The menu consisted of a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and continental. The night ended with revisiting old memories and a promise to rekindle it every year.

Sayantika Dutta
Editor, SXUKAA