Celebrating Day 2 of Annual Appreciation Day 2026 with grandeur and grace 

The Day 2 of Annual Appreciation Day at Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park, honoured the achievements of students from Classes I to V. The celebration unfolded as a thoughtfully curated experience, blending academic excellence, artistic expression, and cultural depth, perfectly reflecting the school’s ethos of holistic education.    

The school campus wore a festive look, transformed into a vibrant space adorned with colourful tassels and decorative matkis, creating an inviting and celebratory aura. A red carpet leading straight to the auditorium added a sense of pride and anticipation for students and parents alike. One of the most striking highlights was a large hoarding showcasing the names and photographs of all students who were being felicitated, celebrating their efforts and accomplishments even before the ceremony began.

The event, themed The Chronicle of Cosmos: From Chaos to Calm, symbolised the journey of growth, balance, and enlightenment; values deeply rooted in education.  

The celebration was graced by the presence of the Chief Guest, Ms Veditha Reddy, IAS. The Guests of Honour, Ms Nalini Asthana and Ms Kamalini Asthana, were a renowned sister duo widely admired for their exceptional mastery of the Benaras Gharana style of Kathak; their presence added cultural prestige to the occasion. The event also welcomed Ms Amrita Singh, an alumna of the 2012 batch, along with Vice-principal, Ms Vandana Bansal, teaching staff from sister schools, and other esteemed dignitaries.   

The programme commenced with a meaningful green sapling presentation, symbolising growth and sustainability, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. As the lamp was lit, students rendered a soulful Vandana, setting a serene and auspicious tone for the day. The stage was then gracefully taken over by the young student hosts, who conducted the programme with confidence and poise. 

Heartfelt regards were conveyed to the revered Founder-Chairman, late Dr Stya Paul, whose visionary mission continues to inspire us. The school expressed heartfelt gratitude to Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairman, Apeejay Stya & Svran Group, Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University, and Chairman, Apeejay Education, for her unwavering guidance and visionary leadership at every step. Under her stewardship, the school has continued to scale new heights, steadfastly upholding the values of holistic development, ethical foundations, value-based education, and 21st-century skills.  

The school also expressed its sincere gratitude to Mr Nishant Berlia, Co-Owner and Director (Family Business Board) Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, Lead-Pharmaceutical Vertical, Office Bearer, Apeejay Education, Member of the Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, and Pro-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University, and Mr Aditya Berlia, Co-Owner and Director (Family Business Board) Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, Lead-AI Vertical and Innovations, Office Bearer, Apeejay Education, Member of the Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, and Pro-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University, for their continued support, guidance, and commitment towards strengthening the institution’s vision and growth.

A special acknowledgement was accorded to Dr Neha Berlia, Co-Owner and Director (Family Business Board) Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, Lead-Education Vertical, Office Bearer, Apeejay Education, Member of the Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, and Pro-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University, whose foresight, dedication, and progressive outlook continue to reinforce and enrich the Apeejay School legacy across the education landscape. Appreciation was also extended to the education advisors, officers, management members, PTA representatives, parents, and teachers for their unwavering support, collaboration, and partnership.   

The opening performance featured a mesmerising instrumental choir, where students dressed in blue and white attire captivated the audience with their synchronised melodies. The performance was further elevated by a dynamic video backdrop, creating a visually immersive and realistic effect that drew the audience into the theme of the cosmos. 

Taking the stage, Ms Reddy shared valuable insights on discipline, perseverance, and the importance of nurturing curiosity from a young age: “A big round of applause to all the performers, teachers, and choreographers whose dedication makes this possible. As we celebrate the Golden Jubilee year, I am reminded that a school is not just a building but a space filled with memories that stay for life. I urge parents to remember that every child is unique; avoid comparisons and encourage them to become the best version of themselves. Beyond achievements, let us nurture kind and responsible human beings. To all the teachers, yours is among the noblest professions. Even in an age driven by AI, nothing can replace a caring, observant teacher. And to our children, stay curious, value friendships, dream big, work hard, and believe in yourselves.”

Ms Nalini and Ms Kamalini shared, “This school is not just a building; it is an ecosystem of memories, learning, and values. Watching the children perform, I am reminded of my days on this stage, waiting backstage, full of excitement and curiosity. Today, seeing them on stage, confident and joyful, fills me with immense pride.  True growth, I have learnt, comes not just from facilities or awards, but from values, struggle, experience, and the guidance of teachers and elders. Children absorb lessons through association and example. Art, music, and dance are not just activities; they nurture creativity, balance emotions, and develop discipline. Early exposure to such experiences fuels curiosity and shapes confident, well-rounded individuals. Students, always stay true to your teachers, your parents, your profession, your culture, and above all, yourselves. Respect your gurus, nurture friendships, dream fearlessly, and remain connected to your roots, no matter where life takes you,” they shared

Ms Singh, a Senior Forecast Analyst at Amazon, said, “I feel incredibly fortunate and deeply nostalgic to be back at my alma mater. As I watch today’s students perform on the same stage where I once stood waiting backstage, rehearsing for annual days, it feels surreal to now be part of the audience. Witnessing this celebration fills me with immense joy and pride. I am grateful for the privilege of returning to my school and reliving these cherished memories.”    

A virtual address by Dr Neha Berlia inspired the audience, reinforcing Apeejay School’s philosophy of nurturing future-ready learners as she welcomed all the dignitaries present. “It is a joy and privilege to welcome you to the event, which is made even more special as we continue to celebrate our Golden Jubilee year. As a proud alumna, returning to my school, especially during its 50th year, feels like coming back to the place where dreams first took shape.  

“For 50 years, Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park, has nurtured a universe of learning, classrooms that spark curiosity, playgrounds that build teamwork, stages that encourage expression, and teachers who shape young minds with care and dedication. Our Founder-Chairman, late Dr Stya Paul, believed that education must harmonise values with knowledge. It is a vision carried forward by my mother, Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, and our leadership team,” Dr Neha Berlia said.

This year’s theme, The Chronicle of Cosmos: From Chaos to Calm, beautifully reminds us that even in uncertainty, balance and harmony can be found, Dr Neha Berlia added. “Dear students, keep exploring, questioning, learning, and dreaming big. The world needs not only bright minds, but kind hearts, courageous spirits, and creative thinkers. Let knowledge be guided by values and compassion, so that you do not just succeed, you inspire,” Dr Neha Berlia shared. 

Taking the centre stage, Ms Vandana Bansal extended a special welcome to the esteemed Chief Guest, Ms Veditha Reddy; Guests of Honour, Ms Nalini Asthana and Ms Kamalini Asthana; special guest Ms Amrita Singh, and other dignitaries.   

“This year holds exceptional significance as we celebrate the Golden Jubilee of our school, a proud tribute to decades of excellence, dedication, and service,” she shared and then presented the Annual Report for the session 2025-26, highlighting the school’s remarkable milestones: Ranked No. 1 in South East Delhi by the Times School Survey 2024-2025, outstanding results in CBSE Classes X and XII, student placements, and numerous achievements across domains.

Special mention was made of student achievers in academics, zonal-level recognitions, MUN accomplishments, Young Scientists, Math Wizards, Creative Champions, and talented performers in art, dance, music, and the school band. The report also acknowledged teacher excellence, Dr Stya Paul Award recipients, and students excelling in both scholastic and non-scholastic fields, reflecting the school’s balanced approach to education.    

This was followed by the prize distribution ceremony, where the Chief Guest and Ms Vandana Bansal felicitated students for academic excellence, acknowledging their dedication and hard work. The dignitaries were then honoured with tokens of appreciation.

The stage later witnessed the felicitation of students who excelled beyond academics; in dance, art, vocal music, sports, skating, band performances, and perfect attendance, celebrating diverse talents and commitment. 

The most captivating segment of the event was the thematic presentation titled Cosmos: Dashavata. Through a powerful blend of drama, narration, and dance, students depicted the 10 incarnations of Lord Vishnu, each carrying a profound message. The sequence began with Matsya (the Fish) symbolising protection, followed by Kurma (the Turtle) representing stability. Varaha (the Boar) showcased strength and restoration, while Narasimha embodied justice and courage. The portrayal of Vamana and King Bali (Raja Bali) highlighted humility and righteousness. The avatars of Parashuram, Lord Ram, and Lord Krishna (Kanha) reflected duty, devotion, and divine wisdom.

The sequence moved towards Gautam Buddha, symbolising peace and enlightenment, and concluded with Kalki, representing hope and renewal. A special dance performance showcasing select avatars left the audience spellbound.

The celebration concluded on a joyous note as all participants came together on stage to sing Hum Apeejay Ke Bacche, filling the auditorium with pride and unity. The event formally concluded with a ‘vote of thanks’ by Ms Neeta Dutta, Primary In-Charge, who expressed, “My heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the Apeejay School to everyone who made this celebration a grand success. I begin by thanking the Almighty for this opportunity to celebrate our students’ achievements. I pay sincere tribute to our Founder-Chairman, late Dr Stya Paul, whose vision continues to guide us. My heartfelt thanks to Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia and to Dr Neha Berlia. I extend gratitude to our Chief Guest, Guests of Honour, alumni, PTA members, parents, teachers, staff, and above all, our wonderful children, the true stars.”  

Ms Rachna Jain, Pre-primary In Charge, shared, “The Chronicles of Cosmos was born from the collective imagination and dedication of our students and staff. From the inception of the theme to scriptwriting and choreography, every element reflected their creativity and collaboration. Despite significant challenges, hybrid learning, school closures due to the cold wave, and restricted practice hours, our young learners demonstrated remarkable resilience. They rose above all odds to deliver a truly scintillating performance.” 

Overall, the Annual Appreciation Day 2, stood as a glowing testament to Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park’s commitment to nurturing excellence, creativity, and character, guiding young learners from chaos to calm, and towards a brighter future.