Kolkata/IBNS-CMEDIA: Bollywood actor Sunny Deol on Wednesday urged around 2,000 freshers at Narula Institute of Technology (NiT) to deepen their understanding of critical issues facing the country, while highlighting his upcoming film Batwara 1947, ahead of its August 14 release.
Deol was speaking at NiT’s induction programme for its 2026-30 batch at Dhono Dhanyo Auditorium, where he interacted with newly admitted students and participated in a live question-and-answer session.
Promoting Batwara 1947, Deol told the students, “This movie is important for the knowledge and understanding of every citizen of India.”
He also spoke about dedication and discipline and encouraged the students to use their education and emerging careers to contribute to the country’s development.
The induction programme brought together dignitaries from different walks of life, including state minister Agnimitra Paul, senior members of the JIS Group and cardiothoracic surgeon Dr Kunal Sarkar.
Addressing the students, Sardar Taranjit Singh, Managing Director, JIS Group, said education extends beyond classrooms and examinations and should help students develop confidence, character, curiosity and the ability to navigate a rapidly changing world.
“We are delighted to welcome our new students and hope that their journey at Narula Institute of Technology becomes one of discovery, growth and meaningful achievement,” he said.
West Bengal Urban Development Minister Agnimitra Paul urged the students to play an active role in building future cities, particularly through innovation and technology.
“As a minister of urban development and municipal affairs, my daily responsibility revolves around building sustainable cities of tomorrow. And let me tell you a secret, we cannot build smart cities without smart minds—that is you,” she told the gathering.
Paul also spoke to the media about a women’s walkathon planned for August 14 at 9 pm from Ballygunge, calling on women to participate in an event celebrating women’s independence.
Dr Kunal Sarkar shared experiences from his professional journey, including the challenges and setbacks he encountered, and encouraged students to remain resilient when faced with obstacles. He also highlighted the importance of student well-being and maintaining a balance between academic commitments and personal life.
The induction programme featured dance and music performances for the new students.
The 2026 batch includes students pursuing engineering across various disciplines, management programmes and a new cohort of Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) students.
The event marked the beginning of the new academic journey for the 2026-30 batch, introducing students to the academic, professional and personal opportunities ahead.
(Reporting by Swastik Sarkar)
