CAIAS UMANG 2026 Blends Cultural Festivities with Compassion

Christ Academy Institute of Advanced Studies (CAIAS) hosted its flagship cultural event, UMANG 2026 – Rangilo Chowk, on October 16, bringing together students, families, performers and well-wishers for an evening of Indian folk culture, music and dance. This year’s celebration carried a special social purpose,

with profits from the event set to support the medical treatment of Lakshmi Bohra, an 18-year-old from Kathmandu, Nepal, whose father works as a security staff member at the institution.

Lakshmi has been living with arthritis since she was around two to three years old, and the condition has progressively affected both her legs. According to the event organisers, doctors have recommended three operations, one of which has already been completed. The proceeds from UMANG 2026 will contribute towards her medical treatment, turning the annual cultural celebration into an initiative to support a member of the institution’s extended campus community.

Inspired by the colours and traditions of Indian folk culture, Rangilo Chowk featured a folk dance competition, a flea market showcasing independent stalls, and an evening of Dandiya and DJ celebrations. The event brought together cultural performances, local entrepreneurship and community participation, with students, staff members, volunteers, stall owners and guests contributing to its success. CAIAS expressed gratitude to everyone who supported the celebration and helped advance its humanitarian objective.

Founded in 2016, CAIAS is a minority institution run by the Carmelites of Mary Immaculate (CMI) and offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across arts and humanities, commerce, management, computer science and science. As the institution enters its eleventh year, UMANG 2026 reflects its emphasis on holistic education, ethical values and social responsibility. The institute has also announced that admissions for its 2027 undergraduate programmes are expected to open from November onwards.