Annual Appreciation Day 2025: Qurbat-Where heritage, devotion, and dreams converge

The grounds of Apeejay School, Saket, came alive as it celebrated its Annual Appreciation Day 2025 with grandeur, grace, and gratitude, honouring the school’s academic excellence, creative growth, and collective spirit. The theme for this year, Qurbat-Where Heritage, Devotion and Dreams Converge, beautifully captured the spirit of the occasion.

Qurbat… celebrated the sacred bond that connects us to our roots, traditions and dreams – the heartbeat of India’s culture. Experience the timeless beauty of our spiritual and cultural heritage through soulful Sufi rhythms, devotional bhakti expressions, classical dances, and inspiring tales of modern heroes.

The evening brought together Guests of Honour HG Vichitra Krishna Prabhu, Temple Head, ISKON, East Delhi and Ms Hojeong Ko, Director, Korean Centre. Dr Neha Berlia, Co-Family Business Owner, Core Board Member of the Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, and Pro-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University, was present for the event virtually. Present on the occasion were Dr VS Garg, Education Advisor, Apeejay Education; Mr NN Nayyar, Senior Education Officer, Apeejay Education; and Ms Purnima Vohra, Education Officer, Apeejay Education (Officiating Principal, Apeejay Svran Global, Sector 21-D, Faridabad).

Also, present at the event were Ms Veena Goel, Director, Delhi Apeejay Schools (Principal, Apeejay School, Pitampura) and Dr Neha Sharma, Principal, Apeejay School, Noida. Ms Shashwati Mandal, an eminent classical vocalist, graced the occasion with her presence. The event also witnessed the presence of alumnus Mr Ujjwal Gaur, Electrical Engineer and IIM Lucknow graduate.

The dignitaries were given a grand guard of honour by the school band. The evening’s proceedings commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, a symbol of knowledge, purity, and new beginnings. The dignitaries, accompanied by Dr Sujeet Eric Masih, Principal, Apeejay School, Saket, and members of the Apeejay Education, lit the lamp. The glowing flames reflected the spirit of enlightenment that guides every learner at Apeejay School. The dignitaries were given a green welcome by Dr Masih.

This was followed by a captivating presentation by the school orchestra, Upaj, which enthralled the audience with its lively and melodious rendition. The young musicians displayed remarkable harmony, precision, and passion, their seamless coordination and vibrant energy setting an uplifting rhythm for the evening ahead.

A captivating Ganesh Vandana by the young dancers set a serene and devotional tone for the evening. Their fluid movements, expressive gestures, and heartfelt grace invoked the blessings of Lord Ganesh, filling the auditorium with an aura of divinity and joy.

In his address, Dr Masih gave a glowing introduction about Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairman, Apeejay Stya & Svran Group, Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University, and Chairman, Apeejay Education Mr Nishant Berlia, Co-Family Business Owner and Core Board Member of the Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, and Pro-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University; 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.

It was time that everyone was waiting for – the school’s Annual Report 2025. In his address, the school Principal presented a reflection of the school’s year-long journey of excellence. He shared with pride that the school achieved a 100% pass percentage in the CBSE Class X and XII exams, with students securing distinctions and top ranks across streams.

The school continued to feature among the top schools of South Delhi in the Times of India School Survey 2025. It received multiple accolades, including the Zero Waste Campus Award by the Indian Institute of Ecology and Environment and the Excellence in Higher Education Readiness Award 2025 by the Confederation of Indian Universities.

The teachers and students alike were recognised for their accomplishments — from research presentations and national awards to literary publications and sporting triumphs. New initiatives such as the AINova Club, Vrindavan Dandiya Utsav, and the Literary Fest in collaboration with Hindustan Times further enriched the school’s vibrant cultural calendar.

Speaking at the event, HG Vichitra Krishna Prabhu, shared his reflections on the divine source of creativity and the true purpose of life. In The Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna says that every spark of talent, beauty, or achievement we see in this world is a fragment of His divine splendour. I believe that as long as we stay connected to the Supreme, we can perform, create, and achieve infinitely. The source of all inspiration lies in that divine connection.

“I often ask creative people where their ideas come from, and most admit they don’t know — because someone higher is inspiring them. Just as Isaac Newton’s model of the solar system could not exist without a creator, how can this vast universe exist without one? Nothing in this world is made without intelligence or purpose. We must understand the real purpose of human life — to evolve spiritually, to realise the Supreme, and to use our talents in service and compassion. Every encouragement we receive, every achievement we celebrate, should bring us closer to that ultimate goal,” he said and added may we all stay connected to the divine source that makes life truly meaningful.

Ms Ko shared, “It’s a true honour to stand before you today on the Annual Appreciation Day of the school. I feel deeply privileged to join the principals, teachers, parents, and our bright students in celebrating a year of learning, creativity, and growth. I’m inspired by the school’s commitment to nurturing global citizens and am especially thrilled that nearly 100 students are learning Korean. To me, language is a bridge connecting hearts and cultures. Through Korean, you become ambassadors of friendship between India and Korea. Keep dreaming big, stay curious, and keep learning with passion.”

Speaking virtually, Dr Neha Berlia gave a warm welcome to everyone present. “This day holds a special place in my heart, as it celebrates not only academic excellence but also the values, creativity, and perseverance that define the Apeejay Education spirit. This year’s theme, Qurbat-Where Heritage, Devotion, and Dreams Converge, beautifully captures the idea of closeness — to our roots, to our purpose, and to our aspirations. It reminds us to stay grounded in our heritage while reaching fearlessly for new horizons. To our dear students, this celebration is about you. Each medal, each applause, and each moment of pride reflect not only success but also the journey of growth.

“Remember, true education goes far beyond academics. Let your dreams be big, but your values even bigger. Stay curious, stay humble, and never stop learning. As Swami Vivekananda said, ‘Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is achieved’. At Apeejay Education, founded by Dr Stya Paul, we believe in nurturing individuals who unite intellect with empathy and ambition with responsibility. I congratulate all achievers, encourage those who will try again, and thank our teachers and parents for their unwavering trust and support,” Dr Neha Berlia said.

Taking the stage, Mr NN Nayyar shared, “I sincerely thank the parents who took time from their busy schedules to encourage our students. At Apeejay School, Sake, we prepare children for life —building communication, performance, and social skills through academics, sports, and activities. Knowledge is everywhere, but true life skills are nurtured here.”

Ms Goel said, “I congratulate Apeejay School, Saket, for a wonderful show and the proud parents cheering their children. My heartfelt congratulations to everyone once again.”

The Guests of Honour HG Vichitra Krishna Prabhu, Ms Hojeong Ko, Mr NN Nayyar, and Ms Veena Goel were felicitated by Dr Masih. This was followed by the prize distribution ceremony that celebrated the achievements of students from Kindergarten to Class V in academics, sports, music, art, and co-curricular activities. Each young achiever stepped onto the stage with a radiant smile, reflecting the pride of accomplishment and the unwavering spirit of perseverance.

It was the time that everyone had been waiting for – the brilliant show put up by the students. What stole everyone’s hearts was the performance by the toddlers! Decked in their colourful attire, pink and gold, their dance steps to the songs Soda Pop and Roar of the Lion had everyone tapping their feet!

Another highlight of the evening was the thematic presentation Qurbat-Where Heritage, Devotion and Dreams Converge. It unfolded as a vivid blend of music, dance, and drama. It celebrated India’s spiritual depth and its enduring connection to heritage, culture, and aspiration.

A ‘vote of thanks’ delivered by the Vice-principal. Ms Ashu Khattar expressed heartfelt gratitude to the guests, parents, staff, and students for their invaluable contributions that made the event a resounding success.

Hum Apeejay ke bache (school song) hung in the air at the grand finale, where over 500 students came together, which resonated with the Apeejay Education ethos of excellence guided by humility.

DAY 2

The day-2 shimmered with grace and grandeur as Apeejay School, Saket, hosted its senior Annual Day on the theme Qurbat-Where Heritage, Devotion and Dreams Converge. The event beautifully celebrated the harmony of youth, culture, and creativity, offering an inspiring blend of artistic expression and heartfelt homage to tradition.

The ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Shri Ramesh Bidhuri, Member of Parliament, and Guest of Honour Mr Mohamed Khater, Counsellor, Department of External Relations. Also present were Education Officers from Apeejay Education Society and Principals and Vice-principals from sister Apeejay Schools, whose gracious presence added splendour to the celebration. The school also welcomed alumnus Mr Pranit Tulsi, Senior Manager at Google.

After the lamp lighting and a green welcome given to all the dignitaries present, the evening commenced with a warm welcome to the dignitaries and parents by Dr Masih, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Apeejay Education fraternity for their unwavering commitment to the school’s vision. His words echoed pride, inspiration, and the enduring spirit of unity that continues to define Apeejay School.

He then read out the Annual Report 2025; this was followed by the prize distribution ceremony, recognising students for exceptional achievements in academics, co-curricular activities, and sports. The presentation of Five-year and Six-year Scholar Awards highlighted perseverance, dedication, and a commitment to excellence among the Apeejay School students.

A major highlight of the event was the spellbinding Dhunuchi Dance, a traditional Bengali performance that enthralled the audience with its rhythmic grace and devotional fervour. The swirling incense and synchronised movements created a deeply spiritual ambience, embodying the cultural richness of India.

Each subsequent performance celebrated the essence of unity, pride, and devotion — values that have long shaped the nation’s collective spirit. On Day 2, the ‘vote of thanks’ was proposed by Ms Ritesh, Senior Academic Coordinator, who expressed deep gratitude to the dignitaries, parents, teachers, and students for their unwavering support and participation.

The evening concluded on a note of pride and inspiration, reaffirming Apeejay Education’s commitment to nurturing heritage, talent, and dreams and the singing of the National Anthem.