CHENNAI: The festive atmosphere at Queen Mary’s College was charged with excitement on Monday as amid the celebrations, Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, who was on her way to the Secretariat stopped by the college to receive an invitation for the centenary celebrations of the college to be held in December.
The Chief Minister’s sudden arrival was greeted with a loud cheer from the gathering which immediately flocked at the gate to catch a glimpse of her.
Students, alumni and teachers alike were on their feet to witness the moment. And Monday’s function, as part of the many activities planned for the centenary celebrations, was presided over by the Minister of Higher Education P Palaniappan who lauded the college for its exemplary work towards educating women and planted saplings to commemorate the event.
Other dignitaries as guests of honour were the Secretary of Higher Education Hemant Kumar Sinha, Director of College Education M Devadas and the Regional Joint Director V Gandhimathi.
A hundred activities, including release of a postage stamp in the name of the college, introduction of new courses, special conferences and seminars and a grand performance from a 100-member choir in December are in the works.
“ We are planning to have a centenary blog and would soon erect a pillar in the college campus. This will turn out to be an eventful year,” said an excited professor.