The occasion: Annual Celebration of ICN-Digital Media Group
Location: Lucknow
Date: March 9,2019
Time: 5.30p.m to 9.30 p.m
By: Barnali Bose, Editor-ICN Group
Kolkata: Variety is said to be the spice of life. How true the saying is, found expression in the amalgamation of individuals and dignitaries from diverse fields, at the Annual Celebration of ICN Digital Media Group held in Lucknow on March 9.
At the same time, what held significance was that the fusion was for a common purpose – to recognize, appreciate and applaud the work that every one of the invitees have been doing in their respective fields of work.
To a recipient, an award doesn’t simply mean adding a feather to the cap nor is it meant only to adorn the shelf – It is much more than that. Recognition of work that is beneficial to society at large, is, in itself very significant. Needless to say, it is a positive form of reinforcement that provides one with the much-needed impetus to continue working in the same direction with unwavering zeal.
On the other hand, an award ceremony helps one remain grounded as one realises how infinitesimally small one is, in the vast ocean of talented and industrious people. It teaches one to be humble and not allow one’s accomplishments overpower oneself. One is able to acknowledge the fact that there is no end to learning as there is so much to imbibe from others’ experiences.
The Annual Celebration of ICN Digital Media Group was a magnificent affair in its ambience and grandeur. The programme commenced with the lighting of the lamp by the Chairman- I.H. Siddiqui, Prof K.V Nagaraj- Chief Advisor , Rakesh Lohumi- Sr. Editor ICN group and Prof Shambhu Nath Singh- Ex- VC Patna University & Director of School of Journalism & New Media Studies, IGNOU, New Delhi and Sr.Consulting Editor -ICN group).
It was followed by a Welcome speech by Tarun Prakash Srivastava and Introduction speech by Dr.Shah Ayaz Siddiqui. A speech-and slides presentation was made by Barnali Bose. The launching of ICN club marked a moment of glory for all those associated with the media group.
Shawls and momentos were presented to dignitaries of various fields. Awards and certificates were given to many of the ICN group in various categories and also to many others who have been making noteworthy contribution in their respective areas of work.
Science of Money- a treatise written by Tarun Prakash Srivastava, on enhancement of investment skills was launched. Journalism In Digital Era- in two volumes – a compilation of stories and articles earlier published digitally on ICN Digital Group was also launched. A short cultural programme further enlivened the celebration.
It goes without saying that the organisers have without doubt, over the past few months burned the midnight oil to look into the minutest of details. In this regard, Dr. Shah Ayaz Siddiqui, Editor-in- Chief, Tarun Prakash Srivastava, Sr Executive Editor- ICN Group and Professor Satyendra Singh, Editor-ICN among others deserve special mention.
Not only did they leave no stone unturned to make the event a grand success but also made sure that every out-of-town invitee was provided proper overnight facilities.
What struck me was that the celebration was symbolic of the character that our nation stands for, since its inception. Attendees from the four cardinal and intermediary directions of the country characterised it as a Miniature- India meet. It was a silent reminder of the quintessential unity in diversity that defines India.