The 39th Inter-University South-West Zone Youth Festival, called YUVOTSAVA 2026, started on Monday at JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research (JSS AHER), Mysuru. The festival is organised under the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), New Delhi. Students from JSS AHER colleges performed lively cultural acts like Garba and theme-based dances showing unity in diversity before the official start. H. Basavanagowdappa, Vice-Chancellor of JSS AHER, welcomed all and said youth festivals help nurture creativity, cultural harmony, and national integration. The dignitaries lit the ceremonial lamp and launched the official brochure of the event. Vishal Kumar Gupta, dean (academics) and organising secretary, explained the festival's goals, size, and various cultural competitions planned. Actor and theatre expert K. Suchendra Prasad, chief guest, advised students to stay connected to their culture while aiming for excellence. Other speakers included Bala Lakhendra, AIU observer, and Prof. Bhawna Grover, AIU technical observer. B. Suresh, Pro-Chancellor of JSS AHER, spoke about the importance of hosting the large festival and thanked AIU for trusting JSS AHER. He urged students to take part actively, saying cultural activities complement academic growth. C.G. Betsurmath, executive secretary of JSS Mahavidyapeetha, presided over the event and highlighted how youth engagement through arts aids nation-building. B. Manjunatha, registrar of JSS AHER, was also present. The five-day YUVOTSAVA festival runs from February 9 to 13, with universities across the South-West Zone joining in rich cultural competitions and celebrations.