B.R. Chowdhri Gold Medal Ceremony: Honouring excellence and legacy in printing education

Mahendergarh (Haryana), November 28, 2024: The annual B.R. Chowdhri Print Competition reached its crescendo with an inspiring ceremony to honour the brightest minds in printing and packaging. The event, a tribute to the legendary educator B.R. Chowdhri, reflected the power of perseverance, principles, and a commitment to service that defined his life and work. With 28 participants showcasing their talent, five finalists stood out, culminating in a glittering ceremony where Shivam Saini was crowned the winner, earning the prestigious B.R. Chowdhri Gold Medal and a cash prize of ₹25,000, introduced by the Offset Printers’ Association (OPA).

Speaking at the occasion, Chief Guest Jaiveer Singh, President of IPAMA, said, “Shivam Saini and all the participants are not just students; they are the torchbearers of an industry that thrives on innovation and creativity. The future of printing in India looks brighter with such passionate young minds stepping forward. I invite all these budding professionals to join the Print Pack Exhibition 2025, where they can witness and learn from the best in the world.”

Prof. (Dr.) Tankeshwar Kumar, Vice Chancellor of CUH, shared his heartfelt thoughts: “This event is not just a competition; it is a celebration of B.R. Chowdhri’s indomitable spirit. He remains a shining example of how one individual can ignite a passion for learning and excellence in countless lives. I deeply appreciate OPA’s continued efforts to nurture and inspire our students, bridging the gap between academics and the industry.”

The ceremony was filled with moments of pride and joy as participation certificates were awarded to all students by Avijit Mukherjee, Ramesh Panwar, and Dr Ravindra Goel, acknowledging their determination and dedication. The top performers received special recognition: 5th Runner-up: Karan Singh; 4th Runner-up: Kodela Narender; 3rd Runner-up: Akash; 2nd Runner-up: Aditya Kesarwani and the Winner: Shivam Saini.

Shivam Saini, a shining example of dedication and talent, received the B.R. Chowdhri Gold Medal, presented jointly by Jaiveer Singh and Prof. (Dr) Tankeshwar Kumar. Dr Ravindra Goel honoured him with a shawl, while Ramesh Panwar presented a siropa. The cash prize was awarded by Avijit Mukherjee amidst thunderous applause. The event was not without surprises, as gold coins were distributed to lucky winners, adding excitement and cheer to the proceedings.

The legacy of B.R. Chowdhri, fondly remembered as a “rocking print teacher,” continues to inspire generations. This competition stands as a testament to his commitment to excellence and his ability to nurture talent. The ceremony ended with a collective hope for a brighter future for the printing industry, fuelled by young, innovative minds. The Central University of Haryana and OPA reaffirmed their commitment to supporting students and fostering an ecosystem of growth and learning. The event was more than an academic gathering; it was a heartfelt celebration of talent, a tribute to a legend, and a promise to carry forward a legacy of excellence in printing education.