Theme : Startups unlocking infinite potential
Hamidia Girls Degree College initiated the entrepreneurial endeavor through an energetic Startup Mela conducted on March 5th and 6th, 2024. This event was meticulously organized by the Department of Fashion Design and Embroidery. The festivities commenced at 11:00 am on March 5th, marked by the inauguration ceremony led by the distinguished chief guest, Dr. Shefali Nandan. Dr. Nandan serves as the Coordinator of the Incubation Centre. She is also a Professor at the Department of Commerce and Business Administration, University of Allahabad.
Dr. Shefali Nandan, in her inaugural address, underlined the paramount objective of the fair – to provide an expansive stage for startups to showcase their innovative products and services while fostering the growth of their business networks. Aligning with the vision of the Make in India initiative, she encouraged entrepreneurs to seek support and embark on a journey of business development. Dr. Shefali also took the opportunity to inspire female students, urging them to venture into startups and cultivate self-reliance.
The Startup Mela witnessed the active participation of over 25 startups, each setting up stalls within the Hamidia campus to present their groundbreaking projects. A significant milestone for Hamidia College, the event showcased the abundant skills of its female students, who are being steered in the right direction for entrepreneurship and skill development.
A notable highlight was the hand embroidery project, where students demonstrated their prowess by presenting exquisite products. Dr. Shefali emphasized the uniqueness of hand embroidery, recognizing it as a distinctive art form that not only adorns clothes but also symbolizes the artistry and craftsmanship of a region. She reiterated that such traditional arts are an integral part of our cultural heritage and deserve preservation and appreciation.
Various startups, including ‘Woman Zone,’ ‘Mexican,’ ‘The Street Fashion,’ ‘Organic Aura Apparel,’ ‘Jewel of Joy,’ ‘Ethnic Closet Inaya Boutique,’ ‘Uzma Boutique,’ ‘Elegance Heaven Furnishing,’ ‘Jute Bag,’ ‘Potli Bag,’ ‘Craft by Pathan,’ ‘FK Handicraft,’ and ‘Arya Kalakriti,’ among others, exhibited their stalls, showcasing a spectrum of innovation and creativity.
‘Arya Kalakriti’ stood out with its intricate Lippan art designs, drawing attention to the beauty of Wall Hanging Decor Framed and Unframed, Lippan Art and Mirror Work, Lippan Art Mirror, Wall Decor Handmade, and more. The students behind this startup aspire to turn this traditional art form into a business, recognizing its widespread appeal across the country.
‘Aaraish’ brand showcased organic clothes, employing colors extracted from natural elements, ensuring skin-friendly and allergy-free garments. The entrepreneur behind ‘Aaraish’ shed light on the evolving mindset of society, gravitating towards healthier alternatives in both food and clothing. Handmade cotton and eco-friendly clothes are reshaping the fashion market, responding to the growing demand for organic and sustainable choices.
Mrs. Tazeen Ahsan Ulla, Manager of Hamidia Girls Degree College, extended blessings and good wishes to the new entrepreneurs, commending their entrepreneurial endeavors. She expressed admiration for their efforts and encouraged them to expand their ventures with the hope for a successful journey ahead.
Prof. Naseha Usmani, the Principal of Hamidia Girls Degree College, voiced expectations that the Startup Mela would open new avenues for small entrepreneurs. The event attracted a substantial audience, including girl students and other participants, facilitating connections between entrepreneurs and potential customers.
Dr. Nasreen Begum, the Coordinator of the Fashion Design Department, shared insights into the objectives of the Startup Fair. She highlighted its role in showcasing the power of design to revive traditional crafts, preserve cultural heritage, and stimulate new forms of creativity and innovation.
Beyond the entrepreneurial exhibits, the fair featured delightful food stalls, engaging games, customized embroidery, henna art, and a selfie point. Talk shows provided a platform for students to share their perspectives on entrepreneurship, and some students added a cultural touch with ghazals and songs.
In essence, the Startup Mela at Hamidia Girls Degree College emerged as a comprehensive celebration of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit, fostering a bridge between traditional arts and modern business opportunities.
