The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) is hosting Converge 2025—the National NIFT Cultural and Sports Meet—from 7th to 9th October 2025 at the NIFT Kannur Campus and Kannur University Sports Ground. This three-day national celebration has brought together over 1,000 students from 19 NIFT campuses across India, namely Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Gandhinagar, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Kannur, Patna, Shillong, Kangra, Raebareli, Jodhpur, Srinagar, Panchkula, Daman, and Varanasi.
The festivities began yesterday with a vibrant cultural parade, in which all 19 campuses actively participated, each representing their distinct regional traditions, attire, and heritage. The parade transformed the venue into a vivid tapestry of India’s diverse cultures, showcasing everything from classical dance forms and folk music to distinctive handlooms and traditional crafts from each campus’s home state.
The 19 NIFT campuses each bring rich cultural diversity to the event, with their local dances reflecting the artistic heritage of their respective regions. Delhi’s campus is linked with Kathak and Bhangra, while Mumbai showcases the lively Lavani and Dindi dances. Bengaluru’s students perform Yakshagana and Dollu Kunitha, Chennai presents Bharatanatyam, and Hyderabad is known for Perini Shivatandavam and Lambadi folk dances. Kolkata displays Gaudiya Nritya and Gambhira, Gandhinagar celebrates Garba and Dandiya Raas, and Bhopal brings Matki and Phulpati dances. Bhubaneswar is recognized for Odissi and Chhau, Kannur comes alive with Theyyam and Thiruvathirakali, and Patna highlights Jat-Jatin and Bidesia. Shillong offers a taste of Khasi and Garo traditions with Shad Suk Mynsiem, Kangra performs the iconic Nati dance, Raebareli celebrates Raslila, and Jodhpur is known for Ghoomar and Kalbeliya. Srinagar showcases the graceful Rouf and vibrant Dumhal, Panchkula contributes Dhamal and Phag, Daman presents Portuguese-influenced dances and Mando, and Varanasi is represented by Kathak and devotional performances that echo the city’s spiritual heritage. Together, these campuses create a mosaic of India’s dance forms, uniting tradition and creativity on a national stage.
Set amid the scenic beauty of God’s Own Country—Kerala—and in the picturesque district of Kannur, the “Land of God,” Converge ’25 promises a dynamic celebration of youth, creativity, intellect, and sporting talent. The event’s programme includes cultural performances, literary competitions, and competitive sports, fostering a high-energy environment where tradition blends seamlessly with innovation.
The inaugural ceremony featured Prof. Dr. K. K. Saju, Vice Chancellor of Kannur University, as Chief Guest, while Dr. Shinju Mahajan, Head of Academic Affairs at NIFT, administered the oath to the participating students.
Highlighting the significance of the event, Col. Akhil Kumar Kulshreshtha, Director of NIFT Kannur, described Converge as more than just a festival—calling it a celebration of teamwork, inclusivity, and the shared spirit uniting NIFTians across the nation. He further noted that Kannur, with its cultural richness, hospitality, and natural charm, is ready to welcome participants and guests with enthusiasm and pride.
