Qalam 2026, the annual literary fest organized by the Editorial Committee of MAHE Association of Pharmacy Students (MAPS), Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, MAHE, Manipal, was held on March 21–22, 2026 at MMMC, bringing together students from several institutions within MAHE and across India in a vibrant celebration of literature, creativity, and intellect.

The event was inaugurated by Dr. Manesh Thomas, CEO of Manipal-GoK Bioincubator, who emphasized the importance of students’ engagement in literature in today’s tech-driven world. The ceremony was graced by Dr. Srinivas Mutalik, Principal, MCOPS, along with Dr. Rekha Shenoy, Faculty Coordinator, and Dr. Mansi Upadhyay, Faculty Co-coordinator, Editorial Committee, MAPS. This was followed by an address by Eashan Shetty, Editor-in-Chief, who formally welcomed the dignitaries and participants.

The first day featured engaging events including Quiz, Shipwreck, Pharmaceutical Spelling Bee, Documentary Review, and Blindfold Conversation, along with interactive attractions like the word search banner and photobooth, creating an energetic and intellectually stimulating atmosphere. The excitement continued on the second day with events such as Scavenger Hunt, Pharmaceutical Policy, Debate in the British Parliamentary format, Creative Relay Writing, and Slam Poetry, encouraging critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration among participants.

The valedictory ceremony was graced by Dr. Deepa, English Professor at MIT Manipal, in the presence of Dr. Rekha Shenoy and Dr. Mansi Upadhyay, and concluded with reflections by Jeshna Raja Benhar, Joint Secretary, celebrating the journey and teamwork behind Qalam 2026.