A grand spectacle of talent and creativity weaved around harmony

The air at Apeejay School, Faridabad in Sector 15 was brimming with excitement and anticipation on December 16, 2023, as students, parents, and staff gathered to celebrate the much-awaited Annual Appreciation Day. The annual extravaganza unfolded with a spectacular display of talent, creativity, and unity, showcasing the vibrant spirit that defined the theme Sauhadrata-The Harmony Within… to perfection.

The occasion commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp along with a green welcome wherein the guests were presented with saplings as a token of love and respect. It was then followed by a welcome note.

In a symphony of brilliance and camaraderie, the event served as a moment of reflection, allowing students to reap the rewards of their year-long commitment and diligence, under the esteemed patronage of Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairman, Apeejay Education, and Chancellor Apeejay Stya University. The theme was an ethereal tapestry of talent and togetherness, showcasing a melody of unity, tranquillity, and empathy.

The event was marked by the presence of esteemed guests, Vikram Singh, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Faridabad, who graced the event as the chief guest, joined by Shweta Mishra, distinguished Kathak Dancer, an empanelled artist of ICCR and SPIC MACAY and graded artist of Doordarshan, as the Guest of Honour. Adding to the elegance, the esteemed Education Officer, Mrs Poornima Vohra from Apeejay Education was present, along with the Special guests, the school alumni, Mr Anuj Chatrath from 1983 batch and Ms Avantika Kakkar from the 2014 batch. Their distinguished presence elevated the occasion with grace. This was followed by the felicitation of the chief guest who was presented with a shawl and a memento by the principal.

 Mr Singh awarded the meritorious students during the function and wished them the best for the future ahead. Speaking at the event, he said, “First of all I would like to congratulate the entire school administration especially the Principal Madam, students and teachers who are no less than stars tonight. In today’s function, there were around 500 students who made this event a success story, which is a great feat to achieve. It is the school where young talent blossoms and moving forward these children make a name for themselves,” Mr Singh said.

 Mr Singh made a prominent point by sharing that the times of IQ have gone and now the word of the day is EQ (Emotional Quotient). “It is imperative to realise that the child’s well-being lies in the emotional quotient of his personality. The overall bearing of one’s growth and progress is of prime importance that determines a secure bright future of the country,” he added.

 Shweta Mishra emphasised on the fact that the parents and teachers have to always speak one language with the children – which is the language of love. “It’s truly a pleasure to be here and I have no words. These children are brilliant and whatnot! In every field, they are excelling. And I believe that half the credit goes to the school, to the management, to excellent teachers who have been their guiding support throughout, and of course the parents, grandparents who have instilled the correct values in them. I can’t think of a single thing that the school has missed out on celebrating, whether it is Earth Day, or Grandparents Day, and so many great ideas are put into action. This was never the scenario when I was in school. It is seriously the efforts of the teachers that has borne fruit. Apeejay has such great creative minds who have put up this grand successful show today. The theme Sauhadrata… focuses on bringing the genuinity in each child’s life and personality, the vibe is truly pleasant and I feel immensely happy being here,” Mishra shared.

 She added that Apeejay is one of the schools where there is pure holistic development of a child – not only academically but even in dance and music, children are so well honed. This is easily on display today in their performances.

 Continuing with the last leg of the award ceremony, special guests and alumni of the school, Mr Chatrath and Ms Kakkar shared their sweet nostalgia. “I have come back to school after 10 years and I saw so many familiar faces and usually it’s not a common sight anywhere. I think the ability to nurture relationships and value people is very rare and only found in this school. I believe that peace begins at home, in your relationships – social and personal. I am taken back to my life where it all started and I learnt the real value of strengthening relationships here,” Kakkar shared.

Mr Chatrath who is now a parent and a grandparent both spoke about how things remind him of so much in life since 1983 when he passed out of the school. “I am a 40-year-old student of this school, I am from the batch of 1983. It is a great opportunity to be here and feel like a teenager and forget that I am now a senior citizen,” he laughingly expressed.

 Talking about the thematic value of the day, Mrs Anita Yadav, Principal, Apeejay School Faridabad shared, “Sauhardrata embodies the essence of unity, peace and understanding amidst diversity. It is the concept that celebrates the beauty of harmony that arises when people of different backgrounds, beliefs, and culture come together embracing their differences to create a unified and inclusive community. It is a beautiful blend of various perspectives and experiences that contribute towards a richer tapestry of life fostering peace and solidarity amongst communities.

The affair was nothing short of a grand spectacle, featuring a diverse array of performances that left the audience in awe. From mesmerizing dance productions to soul-stirring musical performances, the stage came alive with the energy and enthusiasm of the students. Each act was a testament to the hard work and dedication put in by both students and teachers, reflecting the rich tapestry of talent that Apeejay School proudly boasts.

The function was not just about the spotlight on the stage; it was also an occasion to recognise and celebrate academic excellence. Top-performing students in academics, as well as co-curricular activities, were acknowledged and awarded for their outstanding achievements, reinforcing the school’s commitment to nurturing both talent and intellect.

 Following this, a sincere Vote of Thanks was eloquently presented by Mrs Ritu Kanwar, the Head Mistress, expressing gratitude to all those who joined in this celebration. In the final moments, as the notes of the National Anthem resonated, infusing a profound sense of pride, it signified not just the conclusion, but the culmination of a shared journey through the realms of talent, culture, and community.

 The curtains drew to a close on this year’s Annual Appreciation Day at Apeejay School, Faridabad, and the audience was left with hearts full of pride and memories that would last a lifetime. The event not only showcased the incredible talent within the school but also strengthened the bonds that make this school a unique and nurturing educational institute.