Chaibasa, West Singhbhum | 22–24 May 2026: Some events entertain. Some inspire. Zephyr 2026, the sixth annual cultural festival of Chaibasa Engineering College (CEC), did both and much more. Organised from 22 to 24 May 2026, the three-day celebration emerged as a remarkable blend of culture, creativity, resilience and purpose, with Women Empowerment serving as the central theme reflected in every event, performance and leadership role.
From overcoming unexpected challenges to celebrating exceptional talent, Zephyr 2K26 reflected the values that define Chaibasa Engineering College and the Techno India Group through innovation, inclusivity, leadership and holistic student development.
A Grand Beginning Marked by Resilience
The opening evening began with an unexpected downpour that threatened months of meticulous planning. However, the determination and collective spirit of the organising team transformed adversity into motivation. As the rain subsided, the festival was formally inaugurated amid an atmosphere of excitement, pride and anticipation, setting the tone for three unforgettable days.
Women Empowerment in Action
Rather than treating Women Empowerment as a ceremonial theme, Chaibasa Engineering College embedded it into the very foundation of Zephyr 2K26.
Under the leadership of Convenor Prof. Saunak Bhattacharya, the organising committee consciously encouraged women to lead from the front. Prof. Epil Jerai, one of the institution’s young faculty members, served as Co-Convenor alongside Prof. Arijit Dutta and Dr. Suresh Kumar, while numerous girl students assumed key responsibilities across planning, event management and stage coordination, demonstrating confidence, capability and leadership throughout the festival.
The vision extended to the guest list as well. Distinguished women from administration, media and the social sector, including the Block Development Officer (BDO) of Jhinkpani, an RJ from Big FM, and representatives from leading NGOs, were invited not merely as guests but as inspiring examples of women breaking barriers in their respective fields.
The entertainment line-up echoed the same commitment. Three of the festival’s five professional concerts were headlined by accomplished women artists, making them the first female performers ever to perform live on the Chaibasa Engineering College stage, a historic milestone for the institution.
Distinguished Dignitaries Grace the Occasion
The inaugural ceremony was honoured by the presence of Chief Guest Sri Manish Kumar, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, West Singhbhum, who inaugurated the festival and appreciated the institution’s commitment to promoting meaningful social values through cultural celebrations.
The ceremony was further graced by an esteemed gathering of dignitaries, including Raj Kumar Jayraju, IPS (Trainee), Dr. Sudipta Chakraborty, Director, Techno India Group, Ms. Subhashree Samal of Ekjut, and Sri Bikash Dodrajka, Social Activist.
They were warmly welcomed by Principal (I/C) Prof. D. Raha, Convenor Prof. Saunak Bhattacharya, and Co-Convenors Prof. Epil Jerai, Prof. Arijit Dutta and Dr. Suresh Kumar, whose leadership and dedication played a pivotal role in the successful execution of the festival.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sudipta Chakraborty expressed his delight at witnessing the remarkable growth of the platform initiated during his tenure and congratulated the organising committee for delivering yet another memorable edition of Zephyr.
Echoing the sentiment, Prof. D. Raha applauded the team’s unwavering commitment and highlighted how the successful implementation of the Women Empowerment theme had set a benchmark for future institutional events.
Day Two: A Celebration of Student Creativity
The second day of Zephyr 2K26 belonged entirely to the students.
The campus came alive with a vibrant series of in-house competitions featuring dance, music, drama, stand-up comedy and a variety of cultural performances that showcased the creativity, confidence and versatility of CEC students.
One of the day’s biggest highlights was the spectacular Fashion Show, conceptualised and performed entirely by students. Designed around the festival’s central theme, the showcase celebrated confidence, individuality and self-expression, earning tremendous appreciation from the audience.
As evening descended, acclaimed band Mirroz took centre stage with an electrifying live performance, captivating the audience and transforming the campus into a vibrant celebration of music and youthful energy.
Day Three: She-ERA, Recognition and a Spectacular Grand Finale
The concluding day opened with the grand finale of She-ERA, Zephyr 2K26’s flagship event dedicated to celebrating women’s leadership, resilience and achievements.
The programme was hosted by RJ Rashi Jamur from Radio City, whose inspiring journey in the media industry perfectly complemented the festival’s central message.
The event also witnessed the presentation of certificates and mementoes to winners of various college-level and school-level competitions, recognising excellence across multiple disciplines and encouraging young talent to continue pursuing their aspirations.
The excitement reached its peak when celebrated performer Pragati Nagpal delivered a captivating live concert that left the audience enthralled. Her performance was widely regarded as one of the finest live musical experiences ever witnessed on the CEC campus.
During the valedictory ceremony, Principal (I/C) Prof. D. Raha, who also served as the Chairman of the Organising Committee, congratulated the entire CEC family and described Zephyr 2K26 as the best-organised edition of the festival to date. He acknowledged the tireless efforts of Convenor Prof. Saunak Bhattacharya, Co-Convenors Dr. Suresh Kumar, Prof. Epil Jerai and Prof. Arijit Dutta, along with the faculty members, staff and students whose dedication made the event an outstanding success.
The celebrations concluded on a symbolic and inspiring note with an energetic performance by Her presence as a female DJ beautifully reinforced the festival’s core message: women are not merely participants but leaders, innovators, performers and changemakers.
More Than a Festival
Set in the tribal heartland of West Singhbhum, Zephyr 2K26 was far more than an annual cultural fest. It became a celebration of courage, collaboration and community, providing a platform where education extended beyond classrooms to nurture leadership, creativity and social consciousness.
By seamlessly integrating Women Empowerment into every aspect of the festival, from leadership roles and guest participation to performances and flagship events, Chaibasa Engineering College demonstrated how educational institutions can create meaningful experiences that inspire lasting change.
As the curtains fell on three unforgettable days, Zephyr 2K26 left behind more than cherished memories. It reinforced the belief that when vision is matched by determination and inclusivity, extraordinary milestones are achieved. Through this remarkable celebration, Chaibasa Engineering College once again showcased the spirit of the Techno India Group, empowering minds, celebrating talent and shaping confident leaders for tomorrow.