St. Xavier University celebrates annual hostel day

KOLKATA: St Xavier’s University celebrated its Annual Hostel Day, Chrysalis ’26, on March 28 with the theme “Colours of Spring,” turning the campus into a vibrant space of creativity, transformation and community bonding among current borders and alumni.

The event highlighted the journey of personal growth experienced by resident students and reflected the confidence, leadership and maturity fostered through hostel life. Organisers said the theme was chosen to represent renewal, diversity, hope and joyful togetherness, while reinforcing the idea of the hostel as a “Home Away from Home.”

The programme was inaugurated by Vice-Chancellor Rev John Felix Raj, Registrar Rev Xavier Jeyaraj and other dignitaries. Addressing the gathering, Rev John Felix Raj said, “Competence, conscience, compassion and commitment are the four timeless pillars alive in hostel days. It echoed the transformative spirit of Jesuit education.”

The celebration brought together boarders, alumni and parents, many of whom shared memories of hostel life and spoke about the lasting bonds formed during their years at the institution.

Raunaq Phillips, a former MBA student, said, “University hostel became a living laboratory of leadership, teamwork and real-world management learning during my MBA journey.” Another alumnus, Haaniyah Hassan, said, “My hostel leadership experience transformed me from an individual contributor into a responsible community builder and future-ready professional.”

A felicitation ceremony was held to honour students who excelled in academics, sports and professional pursuits. Winners of various hostel competitions conducted throughout the academic year were also recognised and presented certificates amid applause from fellow Xaverians.