The BOSM English Press sat down with Anuj Paliwal, the Coordinator of the National Service Scheme (NSS), to discuss their pre-BOSM plans.

Anuj began by explaining that Junoon, a two-day sports extravaganza held on September 6 and 7, was their pre-BOSM event. He explained that it was an event for specially abled kids to showcase their talents in various sports. He further noted that the kids were from all over Rajasthan and the Delhi-NCR region. He stated that the team had started their work two months prior by contacting NGOs from a large database and figuring out the logistics of bringing the children to campus. This time, 90 students arrived to take part in Junoon. He remarked that about 80 volunteers helped conduct the event smoothly. 

Anuj explained that there were four major events in Junoon. Their first event, the inauguration ceremony, had Swarna Rajan, a two-time Asian Games medallist, as its Chief Guest. The ceremony was also attended by Prof. NVM Rao, Prof. Navin Singh and Prof. Meghna Tare. He mentioned that the inauguration involved performances by the Mime Club and speeches by the latter two professors. The second event was indoor and recreational activities. This event entailed games of badminton, carrom, and chess, along with recreational activities such as origami and bowling. 

Anuj said that the third event, outdoor activities, got delayed due to the rain. This involved games such as the 100m, 200m, and 400m races; long jump; high jump; and shot put. Anuj remarked that this year, they were unable to conduct the 400m race and long jump due to the incessant rains. He noted that they also organised a new event this year, a photoshoot at the Rotunda, before the felicitation ceremony. The felicitation ceremony started with Junoon Nite, which commenced with a performance by the Dance Club. 

Anuj said that his experience as a Coordinator had been pleasant and that he got to learn a lot about how to manage an event and troubleshoot problems. He said that it would have been difficult to conduct Junoon without the CoSSAc’s help. On a parting note, he urged the BITSians to attend Junoon at least once in the four years they spend here, as it is an extremely special event that brings joy to everyone who participates in it.