-APS Noorpuri
Chandigarh, October 30, 2026:*
Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh(Deemed to be University) marked the commencement of its annual techno-cultural festival, PECFEST 2026: A Mystic Mikado, with an exciting blend of technological innovation, cultural expression and student participation. The three-day extravaganza brought together students, institutions and distinguished guests for a celebration of creativity, talent and collaboration.
A major attraction of the festival was the Defence Expo, which featured participation from several prominent national organisations and defence establishments, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), ITBP 50th Battalion and Central Command, SCL Mohali, National Science Centre, Delhi, DGRE (DRDO), NCC Naval Wing, NCC Air Force Wing, CSIR-IMTECH and India Optel. The exhibition provided students with an opportunity to engage with representatives and gain insights into India’s defence capabilities, scientific advancements and institutional contributions. Distinguished representatives attending included Shri Hem Pushap Sharma, Second-in-Command, CRPF; Shri Aman Deep, Deputy Commandant, CRPF; Shri Ajith Augustine Benny, Assistant Commandant, ITBP; Shri Abhimanyu Singh, Assistant Commandant, CRPF; Shri Krishna Kumar, Inspector (Technical), CRPF; Shri Rohit Kumar, Inspector, ITBP; and Shri Aashit Kumar, Inspector, NDRF.
*The formal inauguration, held at 3:00 PM at the PEC Auditorium, was graced by Shri Varun Khullar, Chief Sales Officer, Anant Raj Limited, as the Chief Guest, alongside Prof. Bhola Ram Gurjar, Vice Chancellor of Punjab Engineering College. The ceremony also witnessed the presence of Prof. Rajesh Kumar Bhatia, Prof. Puneet Chawla, Dean Student Affairs, and Prof. Shobhna, Registrar, along with other distinguished guests and industry representatives.*
The inauguration featured ceremonial lamp lighting, cultural performances, the festival aftermovie and felicitation of distinguished guests, besides recognition of Cyclothon winners. *In his address, the Vice Chancellor, PEC, highlighted the importance of institutional encouragement, student initiative and holistic development.* *The Chief Guest emphasised innovation, leadership and the role of practical learning in shaping future professionals. Prof. Puneet Chawla, Dean Student Affairs, also addressed the gathering, highlighting student engagement and the importance of extracurricular activities in campus life.*
The festival’s first day featured an extensive lineup of technical, literary, creative and cultural events. Technical competitions included ASCE Build-Off, Blind Code, CADventure, RoboWars, Escape Gravity, Aero Modelling and Reforge, while literary and intellectual events such as Youth Parliament, Fake News, Chakravyuh, Mind on Trial and Nukkad Naatak encouraged critical thinking and expression. The cultural lineup included Solo Instrumental, Solo Singing, Open Mic, Monologue, Magic Show, Meshmerize, Theque and Groovz. Creative and recreational attractions such as Palette Party, Tote Bag, Moodle Doodle Wall, Hop Mania, IPL Auction and Capture the Fest further added to the festivities.
The cultural segment drew strong participation from across the country, with Theque, the bhangra competition, and Groovz, the dance competition, emerging as crowd favourites. Four teams competed in Theque, while 13 teams took part in Groovz, representing various campuses from across India. The high-energy performances showcased the rhythm, coordination and cultural vibrancy of the participants, and drew enthusiastic responses from the audience.
With an extensive programme spanning technology, arts, literature and entertainment, PECFEST 2026 provided an engaging platform for students to showcase their abilities, exchange ideas and celebrate the spirit of campus life.