The campus buzzed with students from various colleges and schools who explored the stalls and cultural events held throughout the day. Several stalls were run by traders from Sowcarpet, while students themselves set up stalls inspired by Mint Street.
Mint Street 2.0, turning the entire Virugambakkam locality into a festive space, is heartening to see, and being part of such an event at Avichi College feels special given my long association with the AVM institution,National Award-winning actor MS Bhaskar
“Students must rise above divisions of caste and religion and worship love as the highest virtue. Concentration is the most essential quality for a director, irrespective of challenges. And for young actors, my simple advice is this—switch off your mobile phone the moment you enter the set,” he added.
A college student who set up a stall said, “I have set up a stall for the first time here. It has helped me understand how the market works, how to attract customers, price products, and manage sales. We visited the actual Mint Street, observed the items and layout, and tried to replicate them as best we could. It helped us connect not just with students but also with the general public.”
The event attracted not only students but also general public. “I have visited Mint Street once, and I really liked its vibe, apart from the mouth-watering chaats, accessories, and more.
I am very excited to visit this event, as I can enjoy savouries and do shopping,” one visitor told DT Next.
Day 1 began with a cultural programme featuring a bhajan performance by AVM Rajeswari School students, followed by a singing competition for school students. Other events included dance competitions, a quiz, DJ music, an open mic, and performances by college students.
One of the unique stalls was Twinbuds Atelier, a small business run by a mother and former IT professional. Nancy turned her passion into a business after giving birth to twins, which inspired the brand name. The stall showcased crafts made using pipe cleaners, including personalised flower bouquets and plush toys.
“I was working as an IT professional and had to quit my job after giving birth. I wanted to do something new and bring it to Chennai, as very few people sell pipe-cleaner crafts here. I make customised art based on customer requests and take orders through my Instagram page. Mint Street has been a great opportunity to showcase my talent, and I’m looking forward to Day 2 as well,” said Nancy.
Another stall featured crochet crafts run by Sandhiya, a working professional who began her small business during the lockdown. Apart from crochet items, she also makes customised bridal jewellery using thread.
A school student said, “I am a class 12 student from Chennai. This is something new for me, as I have not attended events like this before. It’s really nice to see how a cultural event takes place. I am looking forward to coming back tomorrow as well.”