The Department of Sociology at Varendra University organized its much-anticipated Annual Picnic 2024 in the charming surroundings of Pakshi Resort, Ishwardi, in the Pabna district on Saturday, November 16, 2024. The day unfolded with a delightful journey through other iconic sites such as Shopnodip Resort, the historic Hardinge Bridge, and the Lalon Shah Bridge. These explorations set a joyous tone for the day, making the picnic a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and celebration.
The journey began bright and early at 7:45 AM, with participants departing from Varendra University's Kazla campus, with over 200 Sociology students and faculty members eagerly setting off. The day’s activities began with a light breakfast at 8:30 AM, followed by the first exploration at Shopnodip Resort around 10:30 AM. Here, students and teachers marveled at the resort’s unique artistic and thoughtfully crafted decor. The beautifully designed surroundings provided the perfect backdrop for an engaging photo session, capturing joyful moments of camaraderie and connection. After an hour and a half of exploration and enjoyment, the group moved on to their next destination.
The journey continued with visits to the historic Hardinge Bridge and the Lalon Shah Bridge, architectural marvels that showcased the area’s rich heritage. Students also experienced the breathtaking beauty of the char lands along the banks of the Padma River, a serene natural wonder that left a lasting impression. After spending about an hour immersing themselves in this scenic splendor, the group arrived at Pakshi Resort at around 1:00 PM to kick off the day’s main festivities.
Following a short break, the second half of the day unfolded with a variety of engaging activities. Students enthusiastically participated in interactive games, including pillow passing for girls and ping-pong ball throwing for boys and teachers, fostering lighthearted competition and fun. A delicious lunch served at around 2:00 PM further added to the enjoyment, providing a moment of relaxation and satisfaction.
The lively atmosphere continued into the afternoon with vibrant cultural performances. Students contributed to the day’s charm with their entertaining dances, songs, and humorous skills, making the gathering even more memorable. The much-anticipated raffle draw added an extra layer of excitement, keeping spirits high until the very end.
As the sun dipped lower, the highlight of the event emerged during the prize distribution ceremony. Professor Dr. Md. Siddiqur Rahman, Coordinator of the Sociology Department, took the stage to honor the winners of various competitions, emphasizing the spirit of participation and accomplishment. This beautiful event officially came to an end after the award ceremony, with the departmental coordinator delivering the closing remarks. Following this, the students boarded their buses and safely headed home at around 5:30 PM.
The success of the Annual Picnic 2024 was the result of seamless collaboration between the department’s faculty, the dedicated members of the Sociology Club, and the enthusiastic students. The Sociology Department aims to organize similar enjoyable events in the future.