Department of Language & Literature, School of Liberal Studies, KIIT-DU in collaboration with KIIT Student Activity Centre (KSAC), hosted the much-anticipated La Tomatina Fiesta on 3rd September 2025. Inspired by the world-famous Spanish tomato festival, the event combined cultural performances, student creativity, and playful activities to create an evening filled with laughter, rhythm, and colour. The guests present were Prof. Adwaita Gadnayak, Director General, KIIT Art Academy; Prof. Nishith Parida, Director, School of Rural Management; Prof. Damodar Jena, Dean, School of Rural Management; Prof. Priyanka Mishra, Assistant Professor, School of Architecture & Planning and Ms. Gipsita Nayak, Deputy Director KSAC. Students from KIIT University and KiiT International School (KIIT-IS) presented spectacular musical and dance performances to cherish the rich cultural & linguistic heritage of the Hispanic world.
The fiesta opened with a cheerful welcome note by Ms. Teeju Bhagat, Assistant Professor (Spanish) followed by the lamp-lighting ceremony. The highlight of the inauguration was the symbolic Tomato Smashing by the guests, which set the tone for the rest of the evening. This unique gesture instantly filled the auditorium with cheers, laughter, and excitement, echoing the spirit of La Tomatina in Spain. The cultural segment was a lively mix of music, poetry, and dance that kept the audience thoroughly entertained: Speech on La Tomatina by Jayla from KiiT-IS gave everyone an insight into the origins and significance of the Spanish festival, blending learning with festivity. The Musical Performances added sparkle to the evening: Team KORUS of KSAC got the crowd swaying with Hero, La Bamba, and Señorita. The upbeat rhythms and popular numbers had the audience singing along. KiiT-IS students’ duet performance of La Isla Bonita by Ritkriti & Aalia and Shivansi’s poem added variety and depth to the line up. A soulful performance of Until I Found You by Beverly touched hearts, proving the event had both energy and emotion. The Dance Performances turned the auditorium into a mini-Spanish carnival: Shradha and Devika’s lively rendition of Mi Cintura lifted the festive mood. The KSAC Team (KORUS) brought fiery energy with their Flamenco and Salsa group number, blending Indian and Spanish vibes with Shole Si and Pyaar Ki Ek Kahani Suno. Calvin’s energetic performance on Quiero Bailar had the crowd clapping to every beat.
Throughout the cultural segment, students cheered, clapped, and even danced in their seats, making it an interactive and joyous experience. The La Tomatina Fiesta was truly memorable with not just the stage performances, but the carnival-like atmosphere created inside the auditorium. The playful tomato-smashing at the start became the talking point of the evening, with students later posing for fun pictures imitating the famous Spanish festival.
Audience participation was at its peak spontaneous applause, dancing along to music, and excited shouts created a lively and inclusive environment. The event provided a break from the regular academic routine, giving students a chance to bond, celebrate, and experience global culture in an engaging way. A colorful ramp show by the Mass Communication students Joyeeta Bej, Poulami Das, Ayushi, Sai Amrita Nanda, and Sampada who showcased creativity and style, leaving the audience in awe. The evening concluded with a graceful vote of thanks by Mr. Sameer Kumar Das, Associate Dean of Department of Language & Literature acknowledging the performers, organizers, and guests.