Flair of Patriotism – 69th Republic Day 2018

29 states, 1618 languages, 6400 castes, 6 major religions, 6 ethnic groups, one country, this shows that despite of having diverse cultural traditions, languages we stand together as one. This speaks of our unity in diversity and makes us proud Indians.

One need not visit the capital New Delhi (Rastrapathi Bhavan) to witness the Republic Day celebration because our School students from the age group of 4 to 18 celebrated the Republic Day with pride, pomp and patriotism.
The day began with the arrival of the Chief Guest Capt Ganesh Karnik, who has served the Indian Army on the borders for several years and is currently the Opposition Chief Whip serving the Government of Karnataka, escorted by Joint Secretary Sr. Maria Jyothi, Administrator Sr. Carissima, Principal Sr. Melissa and PTA vice president Mr. Sandeep D’ Souza. Capt Ganesh Karnik hoisted the national flag followed by the rhythmic sound of drums humming the national anthem. All the students stood in perfect discipline saluting the national flag with pride and spirit of patriotism. The chief guest received the salute from the class wise marching teams led by Master Leon Ulrich Menezes.

Class VII students were privileged to host the cultural programme which began with a short prayer, praying for the well being of our Mother land. Principal Sr. Melissa welcomed the gathering during which she introduced the chief guest and thanked him for his motivation and help for the Atal Tinkering Lab, which is a prestigious opportunity for a few selected schools from the Government of India. The Chief Guest Capt Ganesh Karnik awarded the meritorious students of 2016-2017. In his message, he said where there is enlightened citizenship, there is enlightened leadership and where there is enlightened leadership there is enlightened accountability. He highlighted the motto of the school ‘Higher and Nobler’ saying if it is practiced and lived sincerely, it can make the students great citizens of this nation.
Glenn and Aman of class VII spoke on the importance of celebrating the Republic Day. Students sang patriotic songs followed by a fashion show highlighting the 3 R’s of environment – reduce, reuse and recycle. Sarsha delivered the vote of thanks and Akshay B. G and Jeana Periera compeered the programme.

The kindergarten and students of Classes I – III celebrated the Republic Day on the previous day.
The masters of the ceremony walked on to the stage with a sense of responsibility knowing too well that the constitution was framed on Republic Day. The program commenced by invoking Almighty’s presence on everyone to grow in peace and unity. The students further danced to pray as the Psalm 150: 4 says,” All my springs of joy are in you”. The chief guests of the day our very own, vice principal Sr. Snehal, Madam Veena, parents, teachers and peers were affectionately welcomed by the host students.

The very reason why our constitution was framed in the year 1950 was well depicted through a meaningful skit, with a take away message, “When nature and animals who are supposed to be non-thinkers can live in harmony and contribute productively towards our Nation’s growth and peace, how much more should we as human beings contribute towards our Nation?.” Dr. B R Ambedkar along with our very own mangalorean, Rev. Fr. Jerome D’Souza, were fondly remembered for their big time contribution in framing our Constitution.

To add to the glory of the celebration, the stage was adorned by our students with different vibrant colours, attires, magnificent head gears and different moves to the music, but with only one desire in the heart “Unity in Diversity”. The overwhelming sight was when the students who performed as jawans had pride in their mind and patriotism in their souls. Hum Bhi Kisi Se Kum Nahi, said our students of kindergarten, who danced vibrantly, spoke confidently and marched patriotically. The guests of the day Sr. Snehal and Madam Veena, cited in their message, to be respectful to every person and be responsible to oneself, to the society and the Nation at large. The vote of thanks was delivered with a note of gratitude to all who made the celebration possible.