The sun filtered softly through the tall gulmohar trees that lined the college entrance, their bright orange blossoms scattered like confetti over the pavement. The air was alive with a quiet excitement – the kind that comes before something big.

Groups of students lingered near the entrance gate and in the open courtyard, their voices hushed but buzzing. Bright balloons were tied to the railings, and a large hand-painted banner hung across the main corridor: "Happy Birthday, Surendra!"