GTU Hosts 13th Inter Zone Youth Festival “Ektva” Celebrating Unity, Culture, and Youth Power
Bilkul Onine
Gandhinagar | 11 Oct 2025
The 13th Inter Zone Youth Festival, “Ektva,” was inaugurated today at the Gujarat Technological University (GTU) campus, celebrating the vibrant energy, creativity, and unity of the youth.
The inaugural session witnessed the presence of Sabarmati MLA Harshadbhai Patel, GTU Chancellor Dr. Rajul K. Gajjar, Padma Shri Tushar Shukla, Dhron Awardee A.K. Bansal, GTU Registrar Dr. K.N. Kher, and Dr. Akash Gohil, In-Charge of GTU Sports and Cultural Activities.
Expressing his joy at attending the youth festival, Harshadbhai Patel said that the word “Ektva” — meaning unity — immediately reminded him of India’s Iron Man, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, whose vision and leadership united 562 princely states to forge a strong, united nation. “Sardar Patel believed that the strength of the nation lies in its unity, and I am proud to see that strength reflected in the youth before me,” he said.
He added that Ektva represents “unity in diversity, creativity of youth, and responsibility toward the nation,” and that this very sense of unity will be the foundation of a Viksit Bharat — a developed India envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The festival features five major categories — Dance, Theatre, Literature, Music, and Fine Arts — described by the dignitaries as “the five colors of India’s rich cultural heritage.” Patel elaborated on their deeper meaning:
- Dance teaches rhythm and discipline.
- Theatre imparts expression and communication.
- Literature nurtures imagination and deep thinking.
- Music brings peace to the mind.
- Fine Arts give color and shape to creative thought.
He noted that this year’s festival is not just a celebration but a “fair of Indian culture,” comprising 26 events held simultaneously across five venues. A total of 59 colleges have participated, with over 900 competitors, accompanists, and team managers, supported by a dedicated organizing team of 100 members.
Addressing the students, Patel emphasized that the Youth Festival is more than a competition—it is a platform for learning, collaboration, confidence-building, and friendship. “Victory or defeat is not important. The courage to participate is,” he reminded, adding that out of 2.5 lakh GTU students from 400 colleges, around 800 were present as qualified participants — a testimony to their determination and talent.
He encouraged students to discover their best selves through Ektva, and contribute to the nation’s growth. “Your talent is the strength of India, your enthusiasm is the future of India, and your resolve is the development of India,” he said in his concluding remarks.
The festival aims to inspire young minds with new ideas, friendships, and creative energy, embodying the spirit of “Youth for Viksit Bharat.”
“India with youth power is a developed India,” Patel declared, as the audience joined in resounding applause.
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