Celebrating Dussehra; a festival of values and creativity

Celebrating festivals like Dussehra in schools plays a vital role in shaping young minds. These activities help instil moral values, foster cultural awareness, and promote a sense of community. Engaging in creative expressions encourages teamwork and boosts confidence, while also teaching students the importance of tradition and collective identity. Such events provide a platform for reflection on ethical dilemmas, enhancing their holistic development and nurturing responsible, empathetic citizens.

Apeejay School, Rama Mandi, Jalandhar, celebrated Dussehra with vibrant enthusiasm and creativity, under the guidance of Principal Mr AK Sharma and Vice-principal Mrs Aarti Shorey Bhat, alongside staff and students. The event highlighted the cultural significance of the festival, with students showcasing their talents through poems, dances, and a short drama that emphasised the victory of good over evil.

“Dussehra connoting Dus (10), Hara (defeat) – the defeat of 10 evils – (pride, anger, ego, cruelty, injustice, selfishness, lust, jealousy, attachment, and greed) reminds us that righteousness will always prevail, no matter how daunting the darkness may seem. This Dussehra, let us pledge to fight our own battles with courage and integrity,” Ms Aarti Shorey Bhatt, Vice Principal, Apeejay School, Rama Mandi said.

In their drama, students creatively illustrated the ways to eliminate internal evils such as greed, lust, anger, ego, avarice, superstition, sin, and hatred. They also promoted values like love, goodwill, unity, brotherhood, honesty, and truth, serving as a powerful example for their peers and the wider community. This initiative not only entertained but also educated attendees about moral values.

During his address, Principal Mr. AK Sharma stressed the importance of confronting one’s inner demons, stating that individuals can “destroy Ravana by conquering ego and negativity.” He encouraged students to embrace humility and compassion, reinforcing the need for personal growth and ethical conduct.

The event concluded with the symbolic burning of the three effigies by the Principal and Saarthak, a student from class III, dressed as Lord Rama. This act served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing battle between good and evil. 

Celebrating festivals like Dussehra in schools plays a vital role in shaping young minds. These activities help instill moral values, foster cultural awareness, and promote a sense of community. They encourage students to reflect on important life lessons while engaging creatively, ultimately nurturing responsible and empathetic citizens. By participating in such events, students learn the significance of traditions, enhancing their holistic development.