The complexities of engineering drawings and scientific puzzles gave way to some lighter moments as budding techies of IIT(ISM), Dhanbad, engaged in song, dance and a fashion show at their three-day cultural fest Srijan 2017 that began on campus on Friday.

Organised by the student society, Srijan is abuzz with the activities of over 1,000 students from the host college and other institutes like IIT-Kharagpur, Mesra and Sindri BITs and Jamshedpur, Patna and Warangal NITs.

"The fest gives a platform to students to showcase their creativity. Parents should always motivate their children to take part in co-curricular activities," said dean of students' welfare J. Mannan during the inaugural function held at the management hall of the institute.

On Day One, around 30 students showcased some sizzling moves at Footloose, the solo dance competition at Penman Auditorium. Udghosh, the Hindi storytelling contest, saw 15 five-member teams, enact some poignant stories.

"Through the story-telling contest, we tried to create awareness on various social evils like dowry system, drug abuse and witchcraft," said Himanshu Garg, a final-year student of IIT(ISM), Dhanbad.

The One-on-One Debate held at the new lecture hall complex saw participants engage in a war of words on the lines of the US presidential debate. The topic: Should alcohol be banned?

The comedy show Standup witnessed around 22 students tickle the funny bones of the audience with their impeccable comic timing and jokes.

While Avalanche, the band competition, tested the musical prowess of around 18 college bands, around 35 boys and girls sashayed the ramp at Paridhan, the fashion show.

Preliminary rounds of most of the events were held on Friday. The final rounds will be held on Sunday.

A host of events like Hustle Heard, a dance competition; Aroah, a classical and western vocals; Rangmanch, a drama contest; Halla Bol, a street play show; and Khamoshi, a mime competition, will be held over the weekend.