“Music is the shorthand of emotion.” — Leo Tolstoy

The Bhawanipur Education Society College hosted EUPHONIOUS ’26 on 29 September 2026, bringing together participants from 16 colleges across Kolkata for a day filled with music, friendly competition, and unforgettable performances. Beginning at 10:00 a.m., the festival featured seven events across Jubilee Hall and Concept Hall, celebrating the many ways in which music brings people together.

The day opened with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Prof. Dilip Shah, Rector and Dean of Student Affairs. Flames Bollywood, the college’s Bollywood dance team, set the mood with an energetic performance, followed by the felicitation of department heads by Prof. Dilip Shah and Prof. Minakshi Chaturvedi. Flames Western then took the stage, bringing the opening ceremony to a lively close.

The musical proceedings began with Solo Western, featuring ten participants and judged by Kaustav Bannerjee, lead vocalist of The Grooverz. From Seth Anandram Jaipuria College’s rendition of My Heart Will Go On to a range of distinctive vocal performances, the competition showcased both versatility and stage presence. BESC claimed first place, followed by Jadavpur University in second place and Techno India University in third.

While the vocalists set the tone, the Solo Instrumental segment offered a different kind of musical expression. Judged by Kolkata-based musician, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Mr. Swayam Majumder, the event featured tabla performances by Future Institute of Engineering and Management and Shri Shikshayatan College, as well as guitar solos by St. Xavier’s College, Jadavpur University, and BESC OTSE. BESC Main brought the segment to a close with a flute rendition of Haaye Rama. Jadavpur University secured first place, with Seth Anandram Jaipuria College finishing second.

The atmosphere shifted as Solo Rapping brought rhythm, wordplay, and social commentary to the forefront. Judged by freestyle rapper Valentino Salvadore, the event saw participants use their lyrics to address social issues and raise awareness. Jadavpur University won first place, while BESC secured second place and Sister Nivedita University finished third.

The energy rose further with the Western Band competition. Future Institute of Engineering and Management opened with Highway to Hell, followed by performances from Sister Nivedita University and Jadavpur University. BESC Main eventually took the top spot with Careless Whisper, drawing the audience into the performance and inspiring a sing-along. St. Xavier’s College Main secured second place, while St. Xavier’s College OTSC finished third. The segment concluded with a guest performance by MASH X CRESENDO, followed by the felicitation of Mr. Swayam Majumder.

From Western music, the festival moved to the richness of Indian melodies with Solo Eastern. Featuring performances that included Kuhu Kuhu Bole Kuheliya, the event was judged by Sourina Pathak and Avik Poddar. St. Xavier’s College emerged as the winner, followed by Jadavpur University in second place and Asutosh College in third.

The Solo Bollywood segment brought familiar melodies and heartfelt renditions to the stage. Judged by multi-instrumentalist Mr. Novolin Sarkar, the competition included performances of O Rangrez, Dil Mera Muft Ka, and Sajdaa. BESC secured first place with Dua, while Jadavpur University came second. Shri Shikshayatan College and Techno India University shared third place.

The final competition, Indie Pop, featured eight participants exploring everything from Bollywood influences to combinations of classical music, drums, and electric guitar. Judged by musician and mentor Avik Poddar, BESC OTSE won first place, followed by Jadavpur University in second place and BESC Main in third.

The closing ceremony brought the day’s performers, organisers, and volunteers together. Prof. Dilip Shah acknowledged their efforts, after which the overall results were announced. Jadavpur University emerged as the overall champion, while BESC secured the overall runner-up position.

With seven competitions, diverse musical styles, and spirited performances, EUPHONIOUS ’26 concluded on a high note, celebrating talent, collaboration, and the shared love of music.

Reporters: Koena Chatterjee, Pratha Kothari
Photographers: Sagar Dey, Chandrima Roy, Agrag Ghosh, Debakshi Bairagi, Himani Chakraborty, Sagarika Biswas