Bidding adieu with pride

Recently, the grounds of Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park, resonated with excitement, nostalgia, and heartfelt emotions as it hosted a grand farewell ceremony for the outgoing Class XII batch of 2025–26. The school campus transformed into a celebration of memories, milestones, and meaningful goodbyes.   

The day began on a lively note as Class XI students, dressed elegantly in traditional suits and sarees for girls and kurta-pyjamas for boys, took charge of welcoming their seniors. In contrast, the outgoing Class XII students made a striking entry in their formal theme attire, with boys donning blazers and trousers, and girls looking resplendent in graceful sarees, symbolising confidence, maturity, and readiness for the next chapter of life.

The welcome was nothing short of spectacular. A vibrant dhol dance performance at the school entrance set the celebratory tone, followed by a red carpet welcome leading to the auditorium. As Class XII students walked in, they were greeted with rose petals, tilak, and roll number badges by Class XI students standing in honour;an emotional and respectful gesture that beautifully reflected the strong bond shared across batches. Adding to the excitement was a creatively designed selfie booth, which became an instant favourite, capturing laughter, candid moments, and memories destined to last a lifetime. 

The ceremony was graced by the presence of the Vice-principal of the school, Ms Vandana Bansal, along with esteemed teachers and dignitaries. The auditorium, adorned with elegant farewell-themed décor, echoed with nostalgia as it prepared to bid adieu to the beloved batch of 2025–26. The programme was confidently anchored by Anvi Gupta and Devyansh Chopra of Class XI, who opened the event with a warm welcome and steered the proceedings with enthusiasm and finesse.    

The event commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, accompanied by a soulful musical rendition by five students, setting a serene and auspicious tone. This was followed by an emotional address by Ms Bansal, “Today is a very special day; one filled with pride and emotion. Several teachers have seen you grow from nursery, and I truly understand how deep this bond is. Seeing you walk through the corridors, planning something new every day, brought life to the school. Even the moments when I scolded you were meant to guide you, because school is your second home. Your journey hasn’t been easy, academic pressure, uncertainty, and moments when life felt paused, but you showed resilience and strength. As you step beyond these walls, be brave, be kind, and stay true to yourself. Success matters, but being a good human being matters more. This is not a goodbye; the school will always be yours. Go chase your dreams, shine bright, and return as proud alumni of Apeejay School.“

A captivating musical segment followed, featuring heart-touching songs, Bollywood melodies, and shayari that took the audience on a nostalgic journey. The performance concluded with the iconic song Woh Din Bhi Kya Din The, leaving many teary-eyed and reflective of their school days. 

One of the most awaited segments was the Ramp Walk, where each section of Class XII walked the stage alongside their respective class teachers. The segment was judged by Mrs Neetha Mathur (PGT English), Mrs Neeta Dutta (Primary Incharge), and Mrs Shruti Pandey (Senior Activity Coordinator). What truly stood out was the energetic and exceptional dance performances by Class XI students, which showcased creativity, coordination, and boundless enthusiasm. 

Shortlisted students were invited on stage for a one-minute self-introduction round. By the time results were being calculated, a delightful surprise performance by Bhumi and Aakriti (Dance) and a musical performance by Vihaan Khanna of Class XII, added charm and excitement to the celebration.    

Geetansh Khurrana, a PCM student from Class XII A, has been associated with the school since nursery, marking a journey of nearly 14 years. “From being initially underconfident, I gradually grew through constant guidance and encouragement from my teachers. Actively involved in co-curriculars, I have served as deputy director general at Crux MUN, vice-president and later president of the Force Club, and participated in nearly 15 MUNs, including executive board roles. I have also managed major school events and scored 92% in Class X Boards. As my school journey concludes, I feel deeply nostalgic and look forward to staying connected with my teachers, who shaped my growth throughout. I will definitely miss Apeejay School,” he shared.

Aalya Chaudhary, a Class XII A student with PCM and Computer Science, the out-going Head Girl and former Vice-head Girl, “Having been part of the school since Nursery, the day feels deeply nostalgi. I can fondly recall choreographing a large dance performance, calling it challenging yet rewarding during last year’s farewell. I would like to credit the school and teachers for shaping me into who I am today. I am so excited yet saddened to call this journey off,” she said.

A beautifully curated Trip Down Memory Lane video was screened, evoking smiles, laughter, and pride as students relived cherished moments of their Apeejay journey.

The final round featured a Q&A session, leading to the much-anticipated Titling and Sash Ceremony. The results were announced by Ms Preeti and the titles were presented by the judges and the Vice Principal to: 

• Geetansh Khurrana – Mr Go Getter | Arni Singhal – Ms Go Getter
• Anishka Angreesh – Best Dancer | Tavleen Kaur – Best Singer
• Tejas – Mr Popular
• Vihaan Khanna – Mr Talented | Sanskriti Saini – Ms Talented
• Aaditya Arun – Mr Winsome Smile | Ishaani Das – Ms Winsome Smile
• Nitesh Vashisht – Mr Best Dressed | Lavanya Vohra – Ms Best Dressed
• Saanvi Narula – Showstopper
• Abbas Hasnain – Mr Apeejay | Aalya Chaudhary – Ms Apeejay
  

Students of Class XI, who have tirelessly worked to make it a special one for Class XII students, shared  Devyansh Chopra, Vice-head Boy of the school, said, “The school has consistently supported students in both academics and co-curricular activities, especially during farewell preparations. Despite challenges like pollution-related holidays and limited practice time due to Annual Day commitments, the school provided full support, permissions, and academic balance. On the other hand, Anvi Gupta, Vice-head Girl, credited the institution for helping him overcome stage fright and build confidence. Confident about the farewell performances, she believes the dances, prepared in a short yet intense rehearsal period; will leave a lasting impact.  

 The proud winners were greeted with applause and smiles, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony celebrating togetherness and achievement. The event concluded with a heartfelt ‘vote of thanks’ by Mrs Pandey, in a soulful poetic way, which was written by her, leaving everyone in happy tears. Post this, students participated in a balloon release ceremony, symbolising dreams soaring high. 

The celebrations wrapped up with lunch and an energetic DJ session, where students danced freely, embracing their final moments together on campus. The farewell was truly a testament to friendship, growth, gratitude, and the unbreakable spirit of being an Apeejayite; a beautiful ending to an unforgettable journey.