A Homecoming in Words: Celebrating Veenita Pacheco’s Book Launch

 

A Homecoming in Words: Celebrating Veenita Pacheco’s Book Launch

There are events that inform, and then there are events that inspire. On 12 December 2025, the Carmel College Library became a space of inspiration as students gathered for the Book Launch and Discussion of alumna Veenita Pacheco’s book, Mother, I: The Fourth Dove, Among the Three.

Organised by the Department of English, Department of Library Science, and the Readers’ Mind Book Club, the programme was not just about releasing a book — it was about celebrating a journey from classroom reader to published author.

A Beginning Filled with Warmth

The morning opened with a welcome and invocation, creating a reflective atmosphere. The audience was introduced to the young author and her academic journey, reminding everyone that the path to authorship often begins in familiar places — libraries, lectures, and late-night thoughts.

When the book was officially released, followed by a small celebratory cake-cutting, the moment felt deeply personal. It was less like watching a guest speaker and more like celebrating one of our own.

Behind the Pages: The Writer Speaks

The highlight of the event was the interactive conversation with the author. She spoke about:

• Her inspiration for writing
• The themes explored in the book
• The challenges of completing a manuscript
• The experience of publishing at a young age

Students listened not as spectators, but as future writers imagining their own possibilities.

Questions That Sparked Ideas

The Q&A session transformed the programme into a dialogue. Questions about creativity, discipline, and writer’s block led to honest answers that demystified the writing process.

Writing, students realised, is not sudden brilliance — it is patience, observation, and persistence.

Why the Event Was Special

Meeting an alumna author made achievement feel accessible. The distance between “student” and “writer” suddenly seemed very small.

The programme encouraged:
• Interest in reading beyond academic texts
• Confidence in creative writing
• Engagement with contemporary literature
• Aspirations toward publication

A Takeaway Beyond the Book

By the end of the event, the book had certainly found readers — but more importantly, it had sparked writers.

The session left behind a quiet but powerful message:

Every reader carries a story.
Some just need the courage to write it.

Rethink, Reuse, Reimagine: The Eco-Conscious Thrift Initiative

 

Rethink, Reuse, Reimagine: The Eco-Conscious Thrift Initiative

In a world of fast fashion and faster consumption, Carmel College chose to slow down — thoughtfully. The Department of English, along with the Carmel Cine Club, organised an eco-friendly thrift initiative beginning 27 January 2026 under the library premises.

What looked like a small display of pre-loved items soon turned into a powerful lesson in sustainable living.

More Than a Sale

Clothes, books, accessories, and reusable items were arranged neatly, each carrying a story of its own. The idea was simple:
instead of discarding useful items, give them a second life.

Students browsing the collection weren’t just shopping — they were participating in a movement against waste.

Learning Sustainability Practically

Environmental awareness is often discussed in classrooms, but this initiative allowed students to experience it firsthand. By choosing reused items over new ones, they understood how everyday decisions affect the planet.

The activity gently challenged habits of impulse buying and encouraged mindful consumption.

Small Choices, Big Difference

The initiative promoted:
• Reduction of landfill waste
• Reuse culture
• Responsible lifestyle choices
• Awareness of environmental impact

Participants realised sustainability doesn’t always require large sacrifices — sometimes it begins with a simple decision not to throw something away.

The Real Success

The event wasn’t measured by the number of items sold, but by the conversations it started. Students began discussing fast fashion, overconsumption, and environmental responsibility in everyday life.

Because sustainability becomes meaningful only when it becomes personal.

And this initiative did exactly that — it transformed an ordinary space under the library into a reminder that caring for the planet can begin with the smallest action.

A Book, A Voice, A Beginning: Celebrating Xena Bal’s Literary Debut

 

A Book, A Voice, A Beginning: Celebrating Xena Bal’s Literary Debut

Some moments in college life quietly turn into milestones — not just for the person being celebrated, but for everyone who witnesses it. On 7 February 2026, Carmel College hosted one such memorable occasion: the Book Launch and Discussion of alumna Xena Bal.

Held in a hybrid mode at the IQAC Hall, the programme brought together students, faculty, and online participants, proving that literature easily crosses both physical and digital spaces.

A Warm and Meaningful Beginning

The event opened with a prayer, setting a calm and reflective tone. The guest was warmly introduced, and the audience was given a glimpse into the author’s journey — from student to published writer.

Soon after came the most awaited moment:
the official release of the book, carried out in the presence of faculty members and the author’s parents. The atmosphere felt personal and celebratory — not just an academic event, but a proud community achievement.

When a Book Becomes a Conversation

The highlight of the programme was the book discussion led by the Head of the Department. The session explored the themes, style, and relevance of the work, helping students see how literature is analysed beyond simply “reading a story.”

What followed was the most engaging part — an interactive Q&A session.
Students asked about inspiration, writing struggles, and the creative process. The author’s honest responses made writing feel real and achievable rather than distant or intimidating.

Why the Event Mattered

For many students, meeting a young author — and that too an alumna — changed their perception of writing. Publication no longer seemed like something reserved for famous writers alone.

The session encouraged:
• Reading beyond the syllabus
• Confidence in creative expression
• Curiosity about publishing
• Inspiration to begin writing

A Lasting Impact

The programme concluded with gratitude and a sense of motivation lingering in the room. Students didn’t just attend a book launch — they witnessed the journey of someone who once sat where they sit now.

And perhaps the strongest message of the day was simple:

Writers are not born elsewhere.
Sometimes, they grow right inside classrooms.

Kerala Literature Festical-KLF

 

A Journey Beyond Books: Our Experience at the Kerala Literature Festival 2026

Some learning doesn’t happen inside classrooms — it happens by stepping into the world itself. And that is exactly what a group of English students from Carmel College experienced when they attended the Kerala Literature Festival (KLF) 2026 at Kozhikode Beach from 22nd to 25th January 2026.

Where Literature Meets Life

The Kerala Literature Festival, often called Asia’s largest literary festival, is not just about books. It is a celebration of ideas, cultures, voices, and conversations. Writers, artists, scientists, journalists, and thinkers from across the globe gather at one place — and suddenly literature becomes alive.

For us, it felt like entering a living library.

A Conversation… From Space!

One of the most unforgettable moments was the interactive session by NASA astronaut Sunita Williams titled “Once Upon A Time… In Space.”

Listening to her journey — from an ordinary middle-class childhood to travelling beyond Earth — was deeply inspiring. She didn’t just talk about science; she spoke about courage, discipline, and dreaming beyond limitations. It made us realize that stories are not only written in books — some are written in the sky.

Voices That Opened Our Eyes

The festival introduced us to realities far beyond our textbooks:

• Journalist Anjana Sankar discussed the lives of Afghan women under the Taliban — a session that was emotional, intense, and eye-opening.

• Actor Prakash Raj shared his personal journey in cinema and life, making us reflect on art as a form of truth.

• Japanese author Satoshi Yagisawa spoke about global storytelling and cultural connections through literature.

• During a book signing interaction, Dr. Shashi Tharoor encouraged students to stay curious and reminded us that the future belongs to young thinkers.

Each session felt like travelling to a different country without leaving the beach.

Learning Outside the Classroom

The festival was not just about listening — it was about thinking. We questioned, debated, reflected, and connected literature to society, politics, culture, and identity.

We discovered that literature is not merely stories written by authors — it is the story of humanity itself.

What We Took Back Home

We returned with more than souvenirs and photographs:

• Confidence to express ideas
• Awareness of global issues
• Motivation to read beyond syllabus
• Inspiration to write and create
• Appreciation for culture and heritage

Most importantly — we came back seeing literature not as a subject, but as a way of understanding the world.

Final Thoughts

Sometimes a festival becomes a turning point. The Kerala Literature Festival was exactly that — a space where curiosity was encouraged, questions were welcomed, and learning felt exciting.

And perhaps the biggest lesson we learnt was this:

Books tell stories.
But conversations change people.

Play A Character

 

Lights, Camera, Character! A Day of Creativity at Carmel College

What happens when cinema walks out of the screen and onto the stage?
On 9 January 2026, Carmel College witnessed exactly that — a vibrant celebration of imagination and performance through the Play-A-Character Inter-Higher Secondary Competition, organised by the Carmel Cine Club in collaboration with the Department of English.

The campus transformed into a mini film universe where iconic characters came alive, not through CGI or camera angles, but through pure talent and enthusiasm.

A Stage Full of Stories

The event began with a warm welcome by the Principal, followed by encouraging words from the Head of the Department of English, both highlighting how performance arts nurture confidence and creativity beyond textbooks.

Soon after, the stage belonged entirely to the students.

From dramatic villains to beloved cultural icons, participants embodied characters with remarkable dedication. The audience watched in awe as figures like Pennywise, Queen Padmavati, Kaashibai, Gangubai, Baburao, Dayaben, Meenamma, The Godfather, Jhilmil Chatterjee, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj appeared one after another — each performance distinct, expressive, and unforgettable.

It no longer felt like a competition.
It felt like cinema breathing in real time.

Solo Acts, Group Magic

The solo category showcased individual brilliance — voice modulation, expressions, costumes, and confidence all came together to recreate cinematic personalities.

The group category brought another dimension — teamwork. Coordinated movements, shared dialogues, and storytelling created miniature stage productions that kept the audience completely engaged.

To add fun energy between performances, spontaneous film-based spot-prize activities kept everyone laughing and participating.

Celebrating Talent

After a challenging evaluation by the judges, the winners were announced:

Solo Category

• 1st Prize — Deepali Jamuni (Chhatrapati Shivaji portrayal)

• 2nd Prize — Trishani Mondal (Dayaben)

• 3rd Prize — Riddhi Gadekar (Jhilmil Chatterjee)

Group Category

• 1st — The King’s School

• 2nd — St. Cruz Higher Secondary School

• 3rd — Manovikas Higher Secondary School

The applause that followed proved that every participant had already won confidence and experience.

More Than Just Acting

By the end of the event, students had gained much more than certificates:

• Confidence in public performance
• Better communication and expression
• Appreciation of cinema as storytelling
• Team collaboration skills
• Cultural understanding through characters

The Real Achievement

The programme reminded everyone that education is not limited to lectures and exams. Sometimes, learning happens when a student dares to step into another person’s shoes — even if that person is a fictional character.

Because when students perform, they don’t just act —
they understand emotions, perspectives, and humanity.

And that is where real learning begins.

A Taste of the World: Celebrating World Literature Day at Carmel College

A Taste of the World: Celebrating World Literature Day at Carmel College

On 19th July 2025, the Department of English at Carmel College of Arts, Science and Commerce for Women, Nuvem turned its campus into a vibrant hub of global culture as students and faculty came together to celebrate World Literature Day—an event born straight from the creative hearts of Semester 3 BA students studying World Literature.

With the spirit of literary exploration at its core, the event was anything but ordinary. Dr. Aldina Braganza e Gomes, Officiating Principal, inaugurated the celebration with an inspiring address, urging students to make reading a habit by setting a goal of 12 books a year. Dr. Glenis Mendonca, Head of the Department of English, warmly welcomed the attendees, giving a special shout-out to the enthusiastic Carmel HSS students who joined the celebration, led by their mentor Teacher Sarah Fernandes. The event was dedicated by Dr. Brian Mendonca, course facilitator, to the students themselves—those who dreamt it, planned it, and executed it with flair.

The literary voyage spanned five culturally rich countries—Australia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and China—all part of the World Literature syllabus. Students brought each nation’s voice alive through poetry and folk narratives. Highlights included:

• Pari’s stirring recitation of Freedom on the Wallaby by Henry Lawson

• Simran’s powerful rendition of Tulu-e-Islam by Allama Iqbal

• Angelina’s delicate reading of Toiling Farmers by Li Shen

• Anvitha’s poignant delivery of Telephone Conversation by Wole Soyinka

• Melanie’s moving performance of Monuments by Kamala Wijerathne

Adding a spark of interaction, Angelina and her team hosted a fun and informative quiz on the featured countries. The musical highlight of the day was Danielle’s soulful rendition of Riptide by Australian artist Vance Joy, which had everyone clapping in rhythm. But the celebration didn’t stop with words and songs—it extended to flavours from around the globe. Students proudly introduced a spread of home-cooked international treats: Lamingtons, momos, sausage rolls, Pani Pol pancakes, Jolorice, and chana chaat—a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds! Cresida wrapped up the event with a heartfelt vote of thanks, while Hazel anchored the programme with warmth and poise. Behind the scenes, Daiamon, Sweasha, and Irene added charm to the venue with their creative decorations.

The 60-minute cultural extravaganza ended on a high note—with everyone chatting, laughing, and sharing snacks to the soothing rhythm of the Sinhala hit "Manika Mage Hithe." It was more than a literature event; it was a celebration of diversity, creativity, and connection—exactly what world literature is all about.

Diving into Goa’s Liquid Legacy: Internship Orientation with Goa Water Stories

Diving into Goa’s Liquid Legacy: Internship Orientation with Goa Water Stories

                                            (Ms. Elisha D’Souza presents her story)

                        (Group picture with the curator of GWS)

On July 1st, 2025, the auditorium at Carmel College of Arts, Science and Commerce for Women, Nuvem, buzzed with curiosity and purpose. The Department of English hosted a special Internship Orientation in collaboration with Goa Water Stories (GWS)—an initiative that’s as enriching as the waters it seeks to preserve. Students from TYBA English and SYBA English (Major and Minor) gathered to explore the unique opportunity of interning with Goa Water Stories, a platform that seamlessly blends storytelling, sustainability, and local heritage.

GWS is more than just an archive—it’s a vibrant network that brings together academics, artists, writers, students, researchers, and communities to spotlight Goa’s intricate relationship with water. Through workshops, exhibitions, presentations, and public dialogues hosted at libraries, galleries, and universities, GWS curates a rich tapestry of Goa’s water narratives—past, present, and imagined futures. The initiative thrives on critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity, using tools like research, visualisation, and storytelling to create awareness and inspire action.

Mr. Wency Mendes, the curator of Goa Water Stories, was present to walk the students through the heart of the project—its vision, goals, and how young minds can contribute. He was joined by three passionate storytellers and previous interns: Mr. Ryan Bhengra, Ms. Shivranjana Rathore, and Ms. Elisha D’Souza, a TYBA student from Carmel College. Each shared their personal “water story,” offering a glimpse into the kind of creative and meaningful work the internship fosters. Their presentations, sourced directly from GWS’s official website, opened up a new way of looking at Goa’s rivers, wells, lakes, and the cultural and ecological memories attached to them.

The orientation wasn’t just informative—it was truly inspirational. A lively interaction followed, with many students expressing interest in participating. In fact, around fifteen students signed up to pursue internships with GWS, eager to dive into this collaborative journey of environmental storytelling.

The session concluded with a warm vote of thanks by Dr. Glenis Mendonca, Head of the Department of English, who emphasized the importance of such interdisciplinary engagements that empower students to become both thinkers and changemakers.

Victorious Feat: Lit Stars Shine Bright!

 Victorious Feat: Lit Stars Shine Bright!

It was a proud moment for Carmel College as our literature enthusiasts, Lysha Fernandes (SYBA) and Sohni Mahatme (FYBA), clinched the top spot at the All Goa Literature Quiz Competition – Lit Star 3.0, hosted by the Department of English, Rosary College, Navelim on 13th March 2025.

The competition saw spirited participation from ten colleges across Goa, including teams from Goa University’s postgraduate department. In a contest that tested literary knowledge, quick thinking, and teamwork, Lysha and Sohni stood out with their sharp responses and confident presence. They brought home individual trophies and certificates, and more importantly, loads of pride and joy to Carmel’s literary circle. Their win not only showcases their dedication and love for literature but also inspires their peers to dive deeper into the world of books, authors, and critical thinking. 

Three cheers to our Lit Stars for lighting up the stage and making Carmel shine!

Field Trip to MOCA, MOG & Navhind Bhavan: Museums, Media & Memories!

Field Trip to MOCA, MOG & Navhind Bhavan: Museums, Media & Memories!

The TYBA English (Honours) students of Carmel College went on a culture-packed field trip to North Goa on the 2nd and 3rd of April 2025, and it was nothing short of a literary adventure come to life. Accompanied by faculty members Dr. Glenis Mendonca, Ms. Roxana Singh, Dr. Brian Mendonca, Ms. Ayeesha Antao, and Ms. Ashwini Kumar, thirteen enthusiastic students dove headfirst into the world of art, history, and media.

Day 1 kicked off at the serene and stunning Museum of Christian Art (MOCA), where curator Ms. Natasha Fernandes gave the group a personalized tour of the collection housed in the historic Santa Monica Convent. With stories of the St. Augustine tower and the history behind intricate artefacts, students were transported to another time. The interactive session left everyone deeply inspired and asking curious questions. Next stop? Museum of Goa (MOG) – and what a visual treat it was! The students were welcomed with a documentary that gave insight into the vision of Dr. Subodh Kerkar, the doctor-turned-artist behind MOG. Each floor told its own Goan tale—through art, folklore, pottery, and installations that sparked both discussion and awe. The day ended on a cozy note with an overnight stay at Kaju Grove, a charming homestay in Gurim that felt like a well-earned break in paradise.

Day 2 began with a visit to the iconic Kala Academy, where Ms. Roxana Singh walked the students through its architectural significance and creative legacy. The final stop was Navhind Bhavan in Panjim, where students met Editor-in-Chief Mr. Vijay DeSouza. In a truly enlightening session, he unpacked the workings of a newspaper—from gathering stories to getting them in print. He also shared internship and career tips for budding writers and media enthusiasts. The trip wrapped up with minds full of memories and notebooks full of insights. Art, architecture, storytelling, and media—all in two days? Now that’s what we call a classroom without walls!

Guest Lecture on “Ayurveda and You” – A Wellness Wake-Up Call!

 Guest Lecture on “Ayurveda and You” – A Wellness Wake-Up Call!

On the bright and breezy morning of March 22, 2025, the College Auditorium of Carmel College of Arts, Science and Commerce for Women buzzed with fresh energy—not just because of the early start at 9:15 a.m., but because it was time to talk wellness the old-school (read: ancient and wise) way!

The Department of English, teaming up with the Department of Physical Education, Sports, and the Yoga Centre, hosted an enlightening guest lecture titled "Ayurveda and You: Tips on Health and Wellness." And who better to guide us through the magical world of turmeric, tulsi, and timeless traditions than Sr. Maria Saviola A.C., a seasoned expert in Ayurveda and holistic wellness?

Sr. Maria had everyone wide-eyed (and taking notes!) as she walked us through the basics of Ayurvedic living—seasonal eating, mindful habits, and those miracle Indian spices sitting right in our kitchens. From sipping warm water in the morning to balancing our doshas, the tips were simple, doable, and totally eye-opening. The Q&A that followed saw curious minds and animated questions flying across the room. Clearly, Ayurveda had struck a chord! Students and faculty alike were charmed by the idea of blending ancient wisdom into our fast-paced lives. The session wrapped up on a grateful note with Synora Picardo, Director of Physical Education, delivering a warm vote of thanks—expressing appreciation for Sr. Maria Saviola’s grounded guidance and the organizing teams’ efforts in making the event so lively and meaningful.

Verdict? Enlightening, engaging, and energizing—a total wellness win!

Open Mic – Women’s Day Vibes Unplugged!

Open Mic – Women’s Day Vibes Unplugged!

Who said Women’s Day had to be all speeches and flowers? At Carmel College, we celebrated it with a mic, a spotlight, and a whole lot of heart!

On March 11, 2025, the Departments of English, Hindi, Konkani, and the Women’s Cell teamed up to throw an Open Mic bash that turned the college auditorium into a stage bursting with talent, laughter, and unapologetic self-expression.

From soulful poetry to hilarious stand-up comedy, powerful storytelling to groovy dance moves—34 students lit up the stage in English, Hindi, and Konkani. Each performance was a little world of its own—raw, real, and ridiculously fun. The event kicked off with a short intro reminding everyone why Women’s Day matters, and then it was all vibes, volume, and vulnerability. There were verses that tugged at heartstrings, songs that echoed with emotion, stories that sparked laughter and reflection—and even a few moves that made the audience want to jump up and dance!

The Open Mic wasn't just an event—it was a movement in miniature. A safe, celebratory space for young voices to be loud, proud, and heard. A big shoutout to all the participants who brought their A-game and reminded us that art really does speak louder than words. The vote of thanks was proposed by the ever-energetic Ms. Ashwini Kumar, faculty from the Department of English and the mastermind behind the mic.

In short: hearts were full, voices were heard, and Women’s Day at Carmel? Totally rocked.