Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP) hosted the 2nd BUP Inter University Cultural Fest 2015 at the Bijoy Auditorium on October 17, 2015. Organised by BUP's Cultural Forum, the event featured participants from nine universities showcasing their talents in various cultural fields, ranging from dancing and singing to dramas and recitals, giving the students an opportunity to create a platform that would inspire them to display the products of their creativity.

The participants hailed from BUP, Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB), BRAC University, University of Liberal Arts (ULAB), Jahangirnagar University, University of Dhaka, Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST), Daffodil International University, and United International University (UIU).  Each institution was allowed a thirty-minute window to present what artistic brilliance the contestants had brought with them which were later judged by Bassbaba Shumon, Safa Kabir  and Rafa.

The event opened with a performance by BUP, a fusion song followed by a musical piece by the president of the Cultural Forum, Kankar Dutta, and a dance routine, which drew inspiration from contemporary dance, exotic belly dance, and an assortment of ball room dances. Classical dance to a hip-hop number from this segment particularly received the judges' commendation.

The winner, University of Dhaka, exuded a sense of patriotism as they exhibited a rendition, in vibrant reds and greens, of the history of our Language Movement and independence through a series of songs and dances. Their theme rendered the performance a tribute to the martyrs, whose bravery and patriotism remain unparalleled to this day. Apart from these, the shadow act added a unique flavour to their show. 

North South University (NSU), the champion of last year, did not participate this year.

Jahangirnagar University, the first runners-up, put on an outstanding performance with a drama and a mime in addition to the song and dance routines. Their tribal dance set the bar high but MIST created competition with a classical dance number, a contemporary dance, and particularly, their musical performance of a Pink Floyd song, the guitar solo of which was highly praised by Shumon. In addition to MIST's instrumental piece, another mime depicting a love story by BRAC University was highly acclaimed as a success. Daffodil International University added a twist to their show by anchoring their part on their own. ULAB, UIU, and IUB also performed exceptionally, the productions replete with refinement and fine specimens of creativity. 

The programme ended with a concert, a favourite of the audience irrespective of the institution. Old Brigade, an alumni band of BUP, took the stage as they put up a brilliant performance. Old School and Aurthohin followed, amplifying the energy in the room as the day rolled to an end on an inspiring and ecstatic note.

The Inter University Cultural Fest is one of the largest events the Cultural Forum of BUP organises, inviting universities from all over to an open stage to share their talents and ideas. Months of preparations and hard work are spent to materialise a plan so big and according to the participants of the different universities, the event was a success.

Imani Khaled is an animal lover, forerunner of her imaginary anti-frizz campaign, and sketches exotic travel plans all day, everyday. Reach her at imanikhaled@gmail.com