On January 7th, we ventured off on a 4-hour drive to Rajahmundry. We visited GIET, a private engineering college located in the city. We made this special visit to make it to the Maitri, a highly noted 3-day festival celebration planned every year with over 26,000 students in attendance.
This year, Professor Darwin, the Berkeley judging team, and UC Berkeley students received special recognition. The event hosted many prominent guests, such as important government officials, and famous Bollywood actors. During our visit to Rajahmndry, we visited nearby villages, farms, and a cotton museum founded by Sir Arthur Cotton who is responsible for what is known as the South Indian breadbasket. His efforts to transform the city landscape helped many untouchables obtain jobs. The stories, the history, and the scenery made for a breathtaking experience. After a great tour of the beauty that makes up Rajahmundry, we went back to the festival, where we were enthusiastically welcomed. The evening wrapped up with a special ceremony event where Professor Darwin shared about the future of education, and was later honored for his work with Smart Cities. Lastly, we UC Berkeley students received our few minutes of fame as we performed our Bollywood dance for the audience! It was a nerve-wracking experience, but fun nevertheless.
The adventure continues in India!
Divya Suri