Aurorius’26 was held from 18th to 20th February 2026 at the SRM Medical College Hospital & Research Centre, with the inaugural ceremony taking place at the Hippocrates Auditorium. Organised by the Zephyrians, MBBS Student Council, the three-day academic fest brought together students, faculty members, and participants from multiple institutions, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, clinical exposure, and student leadership.
The event commenced on 18th February with the rendition of Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu, followed by the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony. The welcome address was delivered by Pavitra Balamurugan, Academic Secretary of the Student Council, who outlined the vision and objectives of Aurorius’26 and warmly welcomed the gathering.
The dignitaries were felicitated by the council, followed by special addresses from Dr. Nitin M. Nagarkar, Pro Vice-Chancellor (MHS); Dr. R. Jayanthi, Dean – Medical; Dr. K. V. Leela, Associate Dean – UG Studies; Dr. Venkatraman, Medical Superintendent; Dr. V. Sathyanarayanan, Associate Dean – Student Affairs; and Dr. M. Logaraj, Associate Dean – Quality Assurance. Their speeches highlighted the importance of integrating academic knowledge with clinical proficiency and encouraged students to actively engage in continuous learning.
The inauguration concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Shishir Ratnagiri, President of the Student Council, followed by the National Anthem.
Three Days of Intensive Academic Engagement
Across three days, Aurorius’26 featured an extensive series of speciality-based workshops and demonstrations designed to provide hands-on training and practical exposure.
Neurosurgery sessions included burr hole and craniotomy procedures on goat skull models and lumbar spine instrumentation on saw bone models. Discussions covered head injury and raised ICP management, GCS and pupil assessment, CT and MRI interpretation, and spine injury immobilisation.
Emergency Medicine workshops offered live demonstrations and hands-on training in airway management, cricothyrotomy on goat neck models, intercostal drainage on goat chest models, central line (IO access) simulation using banana stem models, and splinting and haemorrhage control techniques on mannequins.
In Orthopaedics, participants explored the principles of fracture fixation, POP application, and arthroscopy techniques demonstrated on capsicum models.
The Dermatology segment featured punch biopsy and suturing practice on silicone models, skin allergy patch testing on live patients, and a live demonstration of Platelet Rich Plasma therapy for hair growth. Academic discussions covered skin biopsy procedures, dermatoscopy, excimer phototherapy, slit skin smear, cryotherapy, and KOH mounting.
General Medicine sessions addressed infusion pump management in diabetic emergencies such as DKA and hypoglycemia, lumbar puncture, wellness awareness initiatives, and POCUS scanning (subject to availability). ECG interpretation modules included pre- and post-tests, alongside practical insights into insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring systems, complemented by interactive quizzes.
The ENT workshops provided hands-on experience in tracheostomy tube insertion using mannequins, direct laryngoscopy, epistaxis management through nasal packing, anterior rhinoscopy, and otoscopy. Live demonstrations included a visit to the vertigo centre and foreign body removal procedures in the ear, nose, and throat.
In Plastic Surgery, participants practised tendon suturing techniques on goat leg models, learned facial laceration management, and engaged in speciality quizzes.
Strong Participation and Lasting Impact
Aurorius’26 recorded 157 registrations on Day 1 alone, with participation from students across various colleges. The consistent engagement over all three days reflected the event’s growing reach and reputation as a comprehensive academic platform.
As Aurorius’26 concluded on 20 February, it stood as a testament to meticulous planning, collaborative effort, and the unwavering dedication of the organising team. Beyond academic enrichment, the three-day event strengthened leadership, unity, and a shared commitment to excellence among future healthcare professionals.
With its successful execution and enthusiastic participation, Aurorius’26 has set a high benchmark for future editions.
