KIIT Deemed to be University celebrated Le Jour de la Bastille – La Fête Nationale 2025 on 14th July 2025 to commemorate National Day of France with participation of students and teachers from leading public schools of Bhubaneswar – ODM Global School, KiiT International School and ODM Public School. The event, organized by the Department of Language & Literature, KIIT School of Liberal Studies in association with the KIIT International Relations Office, brought together students, educators, and dignitaries in a vibrant celebration of French National Day, honouring the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Prof. (Dr.) Debashis Bandyopadhyay, Vice Chancellor, KISS-DU; Amb. Debraj Pradhan, IFS (Retd.), Director General, KIIT International Relations; Mr. Samuel Vivian, Director; and Mr. Sameer Kumar Das, Associate Dean, Department of Language & Literature addressed the gathering at the inaugural session. They highlighted the historical and philosophical importance of Bastille Day, the enduring ideals of the French Revolution, and their contemporary relevance. The speakers also reflected on the strong cultural and diplomatic ties between India and France, emphasizing the significance of cross-cultural learning and collaboration.
As a gesture of recognition and partnership, Certificates of Appreciation were presented to the accompanying teachers of the participating schools, acknowledging their support and encouragement in promoting cultural exchange and student participation.
Following this, the Cultural Fiesta began with an enthusiastic Open Mic Session, featuring students from ODM Global School, ODM Public School, and KiiT International School. The performances included French songs, poems, historical presentations, and dramatic readings — all showcasing students’ engagement with French language and culture. The Open Mic was jointly judged by Prof. (Dr.) Debashis Bandyopadhyay, Vice Chancellor, KISS-DU, and Prof. Swati Samantaray, Professor & Dean (Research), KIIT School of Liberal Studies, who appreciated the students’ enthusiasm and creativity. Best performer in the Open Mic Session from each School was awarded with a trophy and certificate by the dignitaries.
The French Cinema Hour was the captivating activity of the event which featured a screening of two short films —“14” directed by Amélie Graffet, Cyril Flous, Charlotte Da‑Ros, Roxane Martinez, David Jurine, and Juliette Coutellier, in 2015 and “Made in France” directed by Lamia Akhabbar, Robin Cioffi, Brice Duble, Stanislas Gruenais, Maxime Guerry, Alexia Portal in 2017. These films reflected different aspects of French storytelling — from humour and satire to subtle social commentary. The quirky film Made in France particularly entertained the audience with its fictional and humorous take on the origins of French cheese’s unique aroma.
The celebration concluded with the playing of the French National Anthem – La Marseillaise, followed by a Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. Anand Kumar Soni. As the celebration ended, the spirit of cultural exchange, student creativity, and shared democratic values lingered, making Le Jour de la Bastille 2025 a memorable and meaningful event at KIIT-DU.