Apeejay School, Faridabad’s Annual Appreciation Day focuses on critical environmental issues

The Annual Appreciation Day of Apeejay School, Faridabad Sector 15, themed “Mokshdayini Ganga: A Tribute to Salvation,” was an unparalleled confluence of artistic splendor, academic achievement, and cultural heritage. The theme was thoughtfully chosen to emphasise the spiritual and environmental importance of the River Ganga, drawing attention to its role as a source of life, inspiration, and a call for action toward sustainability. This grand event was dedicated to raising awareness about critical issues such as water conservation, river rejuvenation, and environmental sustainability, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation and Goal 14: Life Below Water.

The dignitaries gracing the occasion included the Chief Guest, Smt. Seema Trikha, MLA Badhkal Constituency, Faridabad; Guest of Honour, Ms. Neeta Aneja, Founder and Curator of Trends Literature Series; Mrs. Poornima Vohra and Mrs. Anita Paul, Education Officers from Apeejay Education; esteemed alumni; educators; and principals of various play schools. Virtually joining the event was Dr. Neha Berlia, Co-Promoter of Apeejay Stya & Svran Group and Pro-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University, whose address added further prestige to the evening. Marking the beginning of the event, dignitaries lit the ceremonial lamp which was accompanied by the invocation “Avahan,” setting a serene and pious tone for the evening.

Appreciating the School, Smt. Seema Trikha, in her speech, extolled the school’s efforts in fostering holistic development and nurturing future leaders. Her remarks emphasised the importance of teachers and mothers as guiding forces, likening them to the transformative essence of the Ganga. “I always felt that Mokshdayini Ganga consists of two key figures in a student’s life – the teacher and the mother. If we combine these two roles, it signifies that children are receiving guidance through Mokshdayini Ganga. Regarding Apeejay School, there was a time in Faridabad when only four schools existed. Back then, with just four schools, Apeejay School, Faridabad stood as one of the most prestigious institutions, and it still holds that reputation today.”

Ms. Neeta Aneja’s address, laden with wisdom, urged students to value their voices, embrace resilience, and live with purpose. Her analogy of life as a flowing river reinforced the evening’s thematic elements, leaving the audience profoundly inspired. “No matter where you are in life, there are three key principles that can guide us toward growth and success. Firstly, your voice matters. I would encourage everyone to recognise that every idea, dream, and thought you share has the potential to inspire and bring about change. Secondly, resilience is your superpower. Like the Ganga, the theme of today’s Musical Saga, which overcomes obstacles at every stage of its journey, your path will also have challenges. Lastly, living with purpose is essential. True success goes beyond personal achievements and commitments—it’s about how you contribute to the world around you. Every skill and bit of knowledge you gain is an opportunity to make a difference.”

The event’s grandeur was further elevated by an address from Dr Neha Berlia, who reaffirmed the school’s dedication to nurturing excellence in academics, arts, and co-curricular activities. Highlighting the institution’s achievements and aspirations, she inspired the students to pursue their dreams with determination and integrity.

“On this momentous occasion, I congratulate the school for its commendable work in all realms. Apeejay School, Faridabad Sector 15 comes under the age of more than 5 decades old Apeejay education. At all times, the vision of Apeejay Education is to usher in value-based, competency-based, holistic education that covers all domains of human learning. Education rooted in Indian culture has been the hallmark of Apeejay Education. In a sense, education is a social commitment of my grandfather, late Dr Stya Paul, an eminent industrialist, educationist and freedom fighter. His illustrious legacy has been carried forward under the chairmanship of his daughter and my mother, Mrs. Sushma Paul Berlia. Inculcation of human values is the cornerstone of all our institutions.”

She further added, “The overarching goal is to bring about harmony in physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual development of the students. We have adopted emerging technology at all levels of a student’s journey, including the new frontiers of Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Internet of Things.” 

“Apeejay School Faridabad has carved out an identity of excellence for itself. As one of the best schools in the region, the school with state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities and an excellent track record has carved a unique niche. The scholastic and post-scholastic achievements of the school over the years, including the bold results, are a testimony of its consistency and commitment. As a school and leading education group, we firmly believe in the spirit of the saying and want all our students to strive hard to realise their maximum potential and be the grandest version of themselves as future citizens of the world,” Dr Neha Berlia emphasised.

Subsequently, Mrs. Snehlata Krishnan, Principal, Apeejay School, Faridabad, highlighted the Ganga as a powerful symbol of resilience, renewal, and selflessness. “This theme pays tribute to the transformative journey of every individual, reflecting the flow of life, challenges, and triumphs. Like the Ganga, which nurtures and inspires all who encounter its course, we celebrate the relentless spirit and dedication of our community in their pursuit of excellence.”

Reiterating Apeejay Education’s commitment to fostering value-based, holistic learning, Mrs. Krishnan expressed gratitude to Late Dr Stya Paul, Founder Chairman, Apeejay Stya Group & Apeejay Education, Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairman, Apeejay Stya & Svran Group, Chancellor Apeejay Stya University, and Chairman, Apeejay Education, Mr Aditya Berlia, Co-Family Business Owner and Core Board Member of Apeejay Stya and Svran Group and Pro-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University and Dr Neha Berlia, Co-Family Business Owner and Core Board Member of Apeejay Stya & Svran Group and Pro-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University.

A Celebration of Excellence and Sustainability

The evening featured an enchanting music performance “The Symphony,” which captivated the audience with a harmonious blend of musical instruments. The performance featured a beautiful combination of traditional and contemporary sounds, including the soulful tones of the guitar, harmonium, tanpura, tabla, and flute. 

The audience observed a solemn one-minute mourning honouring the passing of Mr. Om Prakash Chautala, Former Chief Minister of Haryana. The school choir sang the welcome song that further elevated the evening’s ambiance filling the venue with joy and warmth while creating a perfect start to the celebrations. 

Showcasing Achievements

The Annual Report presented by Mrs. Snehlata Krishnan showcased the school’s stellar accomplishments across academics, sports, and extracurricular activities.The Prize Distribution Ceremony was conducted in two phases. 

Artistic Brilliance

One of the most heartwarming and anticipated performances of the evening was by the tiny tots. The youngest learners from the school showcased their boundless energy and creativity through a delightful display of dance, rhythmic gestures, and vibrant expressions. 

As shared by the parents of Anvika from Class Nursery, “We thoroughly enjoyed the program and truly appreciated the performances. The children were very enthusiastic, and the teachers put in great effort, as it’s not easy to achieve such performances from young children.” 

The evening’s pièce de résistance was the thematic presentation – “Mokshdayini Ganga: A Tribute to Salvation.” This awe-inspiring performance vividly depicted the cultural, spiritual, and environmental significance of the River Ganga.

The performance began with an evocative narrative that traced the journey of the Ganga, highlighting its significance as a lifeline for millions and its role as a symbol of purity, resilience, and renewal. The dance and drama showcased traditional Indian classical and folk forms, blending them with modern choreography to depict the Ganga’s powerful story.

Pearl Schofield, a Class 12 student, Apeejay School, Faridabad, and the Star of Apeejay Awardee, reflected on the event, stating, “The event was truly majestic, encompassing the rich culture of India. I feel it’s one of the best things to experience. Everyone, from nursery to 12th grade, participated, bringing us all together, which I believed was truly wonderful.” 

The Grand Finale brought together all participants, creating a moment of shared joy, unity, and collective celebration. The stage was filled with performers from various segments of the school community, blending diverse talents in a harmonious display of creativity and teamwork.

The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Academic Coordinator Mrs. Deepa Sharma, who expressed heartfelt appreciation to all contributors. The program ended on a patriotic note with the National Anthem. As Anshul Bhardwaj, the Head Girl of Apeejay School, Faridabad, reflected, “The event reflected a great deal of hard work put in by our school students, especially our primary kids.”