The Christmas Celebration of Hindustan Group of Institutions was held on 19 December 2023 at HITS Bay Range Campus, Padur, Chennai. The event was presided over by Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese, Chancellor, HITS and Chairman, Hindustan Group of Institutions. The Chief Guest for the event was Rt. Rev. Dr. Gregorios Mar Stephanos Episcopa, Bishop of Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church. Mr. Chang-nyun Kim, Consul General of the Republic of Korea was the Guest of Honour. The representatives from the KEB Hana Bank, India – Mr. Dae Ki Hong, Managing Director and Mr. Jaeyeol Lee, Chief Operating Officer, were the special guests. The other special invitees were Mrs Elisa Limbacher, Coordination of the Lord Mayor's Office, City of Trier, International Relationships & Sustainability, Town Twinnings, UN-Agenda 2030 and Dr Felix Bentgens, Faculty, Trier University of Applied Sciences, Germany.

Dr Anand Jacob Verghese, Chancellor said that it is good to end the year with the blessings of the Almighty. He pointed out that the Hindustan Group of Institutions have accomplished many achievements in the year 2023 like accreditations and rankings at the international level. The Chancellor informed the audience of the post flood relief camps organised by HGI. He said that around 5000 families of Kancheepuram and Chengalpattu districts received relief materials such as prepared food, clothing, blanket, and a total of 50 tonnes of rice. He also said that the Group looks forward to reach the southern districts of Tamil Nadu affected by the recent flood. Dr. Anand also recorded his gratitude to KEB Hana Bank for awarding scholarship to the most deserving students of HGI. The Chancellor added that as the birth of Christ is celebrated, the joy of sharing and contributing to the needy should be the reason for the season. He concluded his speech by reassuring that each and every individual at HGI should contribute to deliver the best possible achievements.

Rt. Rev. Dr. Gregorios Mar Stephanos Episcopa, Bishop of Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church, began his Christmas Message by pointing out at the inspiring life of Dr. K. C. G. Verghese whose distinguished, determined and dedicated life has powered the growth of HGI. His message was based on the significance of the birth of Christ in today’s world. The Bishop explained how the world is influenced by death, darkness and hatred. He said that Jesus Christ came into a world to redeem us as He is the light, the way, and the truth. As the children of Christ, the Bishop urged that every individual is responsible to spread a counter culture of life, light, and love across the world so as to lead a harmonious life.

Mr. Chang-nyun Kim, Consul General of the Republic of Korea, in his special address, expressed his deep pleasure and honour to be part of the Christmas event at HITS. Reflecting on his first Christmas in Chennai since assuming office in July 2023, Mr. Kim acknowledged the significance of this year marking the 50th anniversary of India-Korea relations in public relations since 1973. He then congratulated the students on their scholarships from KEB Hana Bank, extending appreciation to the bank for its support. Furthermore, he lauded the King Sejong Institute for its role in teaching the Korean language and fostering cultural exchange between the two nations. Concluding his speech, he wished for the enduring presence of the true love of God, embodied in the sacrifice of His only son, Jesus Christ, and extended warm Christmas wishes to all present, their friends, and families.

The celebration commenced with opening prayer offered by Rev. Zachariah Alexander, Vicar, St. Paul’s Mar Thoma Church, Adyar. The opening hymn “O Come all ye faithful” was rendered by the Choir of Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science. The welcome address was delivered by Dr. S. N. Sridhara, Vice Chancellor, HITS. Mr. Armaan Verghese read the bible excerpt from the Gospel of St. Luke Chapter 2 verses 1-14. The Choirs from the Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, K. C. G College of Technology, and Hindustan College of Arts and Science presented their carol rendition. A special song was rendered by Mr. Enid Verghese, Deputy Director, HGI and Ms. Eliza Limbacher, Mayor’s Office, Trier, Germany jointly. A musical Dance on the theme “Birth of Jesus Christ” was presented by Hindustan College, Mysuru and the Hindustan International Schools presented the Christmas Dance. The winners of the Carol the King competition Women’s Chrisitan College and CSI. Bain Matriculation Hr. Sec. School also rendered special songs during the celebration. Prizes were distributed to the winners of Biblia, Carol the King, Advent Choral Contest and O’ Christmas Tree Competitions.

During the event, Mr. Dae Ki Hong announced the scholarship offered by KEB Hana Bank to the students of HGI. A total Rs. 8.3 lakhs was awarded to 20 students who received Rs. 41,500 each. The dignitaries came together for the cake cutting ceremony. Mr. Isaac Samala Gerard, Chief HR Officer proposed the vote of thanks. The closing prayer and benediction were offered by Rev. Justin Jose, Student Chaplain, HGI and Rt. Rev. Dr. Gregorios Mar Stephanos Episcopa respectively.

Results of the Competitions
BIBLIA 2023 WINNERS (5 Categories)

OPEN CATEGORY (Churches/Organizations)

COLLEGE CATEGORY

SCHOOL CATEGORY

HINDUSTAN COLLEGES

HINDUSTAN SCHOOLS

CAROL THE KING 2021 WINNERS (3 Categories)

OPEN CATEGORY (Churches/Organizations)

COLLEGE CATEGORY

SCHOOL CATEGORY

ADVENT CHORAL CONTEST (No Cheques- Only Mementos)

O Christmas Tree