TOWAMENCIN- The North Penn Auditorium was filled with festive colors, dancing, and fun on Friday, January 26th, during the Indian Cultural Association’s (ICA) 20th Republic Night.
On January 26th, India commemorates its Republic Day, marking the historic moment in 1950 when the Constitution of India came into effect, officially declaring the country a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. This day holds immense significance as it symbolizes the culmination of India’s struggle for independence and the adoption of a constitution that guarantees fundamental rights, equality, and justice to its diverse population. It is a time for citizens to reflect on the values enshrined in the constitution and reaffirm their commitment to the democratic ideals that form the foundation of the Indian Republic. The day serves as a reminder of the nation’s unity in diversity and its ongoing journey toward progress and inclusivity.
“Republic Night celebrities the adoption of the constitution of India,” ICA President Dhavni Patel explained.
All the money collected will be donated and used for student scholarships this year.
“After the night finishes, we gather the money, and at the end of the year, we donate to children’s education in India, CHOP, and student scholarships,” Patel stated.
The night started with the singing of both the American and Indian National Anthems, followed by performances from Mokshaa Dance Academy and introductions of the Officers of ICA.
After performances by Mokshaa, ICA held its 12th Mr. and Ms. Republic Night competition. Each of the six contestants participated in a dance and a game of “Who’s Most Likely To.”
Members of the audience had the opportunity to vote for their favorite candidate during intermission.
This year’s Ms. Rep Night queen candidates were Himani Patel, Ramona Sharma, and Swarnima Thakar.
This year’s Mr. Rep Night queen candidates were Mohit Khera, Wik Podugu, and Prajit Rajan.
For the first time, Republic Night showcased a faculty fashion show with Mr. Bui, Mr. Fry, Dr. Carlin, and others, followed by an intermission that allowed the audience to grab some food for the rest of the evening—the night ended with several more dance performances and the announcement of Mr. and Ms. Rep Knight.
This year’s Rep Night king and queen were seniors Mohit Khera and Himani Patel.
Along with performing in multiple traditional dances, Patel helped assemble the event.
“We started in mid-December, putting out sign-up sheets and requests for audition tapes. We then had practices after winter break every Tuesday and Thursday in the Audion. People practiced, we made scripts and put together soundtracks. Most importantly we had to reach out to vendors,” Patel shared.
The night concluded with the annual performance from the Broad Street Badshah, North Penn’s very own Indium, and closing remarks.
Republic Night at NorthPenn has become a cherished tradition that transcends boundaries and brings our community together to revel in the vibrancy of Indian culture.
“I love it [Republic Night] and I have always wanted to be more involved since I found out about the club. I am so glad my cabinet and I made it all work,” Patel concluded.