To commemorate August Kranti Diwas, the day marking the launch of the Quit India Movement in 1942, the Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Smriti Samiti and the All-India Society of Education (AISE), in collaboration with Indraprastha College for Women, University of Delhi, organized a thought-provoking Inter-College Speech Competition titled “Vakya Pratiyogita” on August 6, 2025. The event was sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
The theme of the competition, “Contribution of Youth in the Quit India Movement, 1942”, encouraged students to delve into the pivotal role played by young freedom fighters in India’s struggle for independence.
The inaugural session was graced by Smt. D. Purandeswari, Member of Parliament and Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Committee, who served as the Chief Guest. Prof. Rita Bahuguna Joshi, former Cabinet Minister, Government of Uttar Pradesh & Former Member of Parliament was distinguished guest, Prof. Poonam Kumria, Principal of Indraprastha College for Women presided over the function and Dev Verma, Secretary, Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Smriti Samiti, Uttar Pradesh were also present at the event.
The proceedings began with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, followed by the screening of a short documentary on the life and contributions of Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna, a revered freedom fighter and statesman.
Among the other dignitaries in attendance were Shri Rajesh Mehta, former chairman, Motilal Nehru College, Delh University , Shri Rajesh Goyal, President of the All India Society of Education (AISE). This competition marked the third edition in a national series of oratorical events organised by AISE, with previous sessions held in Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh, also under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture.
In her keynote address, Smt. Purandeswari reflected on the enduring relevance of the Quit India Movement, emphasizing the values of svatantrata (freedom) and aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) that continue to resonate with India’s youth. “This enduring legacy honours not only the freedom fighters but also thousands of unsung heroes who sacrificed their lives. Their stories continue to inspire future generations,” she said.
Prof. Reeta Bahuguna Joshi, present as the Guest of Honour, delivered a powerful speech on the role of women and youth in the freedom struggle. Recalling her father, Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna’s visionary leadership, she spoke about the transformative nature of kranti (revolution), and the pursuit of poorna swaraj (complete self-rule). “Swaraj will reach every house in India when there is prosperity and happiness, empowering the entire nation,” she affirmed.
Prof. Poonam Kumria, Principal of Indraprastha College for Women, welcomed the participants and highlighted the college’s continued commitment to education that fosters critical thinking, leadership, and nation-building. She emphasized the significant contributions of women to India’s freedom movement, linking the past with the aspirations of today’s youth.
The competition featured 35 participants from over 17 colleges of the University of Delhi. The student orators delivered articulate and impassioned speeches that reflected historical insight, contemporary relevance, and rhetorical excellence. One student evocatively described independence as “a blank cheque signed with the blood, sweat, and tears of 1942’s youth.” Others spoke of the path to Viksit Bharat, asserting that freedom is a right, not a request.
The event concluded on a note of patriotic fervour, youthful determination, and a revived remembrance of India’s long and continuing democratic journey.
