Dharamchakra in action: Lighting the path from struggle to success

The stage transformed into a magnificent canvas of student artistry, illuminated with vivid strokes of exceptional art and craft at Apeejay School, Greater Noida, on its Annual Appreciation Day. Parents and esteemed guests sat in eager anticipation, their excitement shimmering in the air as they awaited the enchanting spectacle that was about to unfold.

The occasion was elevated by the distinguished presence of its esteemed dignitaries. The Guest of Honour were, Mr Vikas Chandra, Former IG, BSF and Dr Jitendra Singh Tomar, Deputy Director General & HOD, NSSTA. The school was also honoured to host renowned poetess and author Dr Savita Chaddha; and Mr Dinesh Rai, Former Chief Secretary, Delhi Government, and patron of Apeejay Education as the Special Invitee. Adding to the event’s eminence was the august presence of Mr NN Nayyar, Senior Education Officer, Apeejay Education and Dr Neha Sharma, Principal, Apeejay School, Noida, whose attendance enriched the gathering with wisdom and warmth. Also present was Mr Neelotpal Tripathi, proud alumnus of the 2016–17 batch.

The evening unfolded with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, a timeless ritual symbolising the triumph of knowledge and enlightenment over darkness. This graceful act was followed by the presentation of planters, accompanied by tokens of appreciation for the guests, an elegant gesture celebrating growth, harmony, and sustainability. The ceremony beautifully echoed a collective dedication to fostering a greener, more nurturing future for the generations yet to come.

Under the captivating theme Dharamchakra-Sangharsh Se Samman Tak the event beautifully encapsulated timeless teachings and invaluable lessons that inspire leadership and personal growth, illuminating a pathway paved with wisdom, vision, and success.

Adorned in captivating and elegant attire, the children took their places, their eyes sparkling with anticipation and confidence. Every performance promised to mesmerize, enchant, and leave the audience spellbound. What unfolded on stage was far more than a celebration; it was a heartfelt showcase of talent, dedication, and the enduring spirit of learning that lies at the heart of the Apeejay School ethos.

The celebration began on a mesmerizing note with an orchestral performance, featuring the enthralling pieces Taal Se Taal Mila and Hymn for the Weekend. The school choir further elevated the atmosphere with the tranquil and soulful welcome song Bhor Bhayo, setting a serene and inviting tone for the evening. Adding a spiritually enriching dimension, the devotional piece Shiva Stuti -Anadi Ananta enveloped the audience in a profound sense of reverence and devotion.

Next came the charming Pre-primary dance performance that captured hearts effortlessly, as the little ones, dressed in shimmering blue and white ensembles, danced with boundless energy and joy. Their lively dance performance on My Heart Goes Shalala brought smiles to every face in the audience, leaving everyone utterly enchanted by their sheer innocence and exuberance, followed by the powerful patriotic song by the choir Kasam Sindoor Ki, a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of India’s soldiers.

Speaking at the function, Mr Chandra, inspired the students by paying tribute to nari shakti, highlighting that discipline, courage, and commitment from the very pillars of nation-building. With heartfelt words, he encouraged the young learners to have faith in their abilities and embrace their roles as responsible citizens, shaping a stronger and brighter future for India. “Sangharsh is input and Samman is outcome and everything else falls in between. Another name of life is Sangharsh, and kids should work on the gap between their potential and result,” Mr Chandra emphasised.

Joining with a similar sentiment, Dr Tomar, eloquently underscored the profound essence of struggle to success,reminding students that unwavering dedication and relentless perseverance are the true harbingers of success. He inspired them to embrace challenges with resilience and pursue excellence with steadfast commitment in every endeavour they undertake. “Apeejay School, Greater Noida, provides the students for holistic development and provides opportunities to students to achieve samman through sangharsh,” Mr Tomar expressed.

Dr Chaddha,  gracefully elucidated the deeper meaning of dharamchakra,the continuous and wholehearted fulfilment of one’s duties. She urged the students to stay anchored in timeless values, nurturing a mindset of commitment, humility, and sincere gratitude in every endeavour. “I believe in the power of manifestation and good thoughts. This power of thoughts has worked magically in my life too and I urge every student to keep their courage and optimism always alive,” Dr Chaddha said.

Dr Neha Berlia, Co-Promoter of Apeejay Stya & Svran Group and Pro-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University shared a special message (virtually) for the school and guests, “I am delighted to connect with all of you on this very special occasion of the Annual Appreciation Day of Apeejay School, Greater Noida. I extend a warm welcome to our esteemed guests who took out time from their extremely busy schedule to be with us. 

“Apeejay School, Greater Noida comes under the aegis of Apeejay Education. The vision of Apeejay Education is to usher in value-based and competency-based holistic education that covers all domains of human learning. Education rooted in Indian culture has been the hallmark of Apeejay Education. Resilience under adversity quotient is a broad spectrum of human values that are blended seamlessly into the curriculum,” Dr Neha Berlia said.

On the other hand arts, music, sports, theatre, yoga and meditation are also synergised with the curriculum, Dr Neha Berlia added.

“Apeejay Education is a social commitment of Dr Stya Paul, (Founder-Chairman, Apeejay Stya and Svran Group), the eminent educationist, industrialist and freedom fighter, His illustrious journey is carried forward under the chairmanship of his daughter and my mother Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairman, Apeejay Stya & Svran Group, Chancellor Apeejay Stya University, and Chairman, Apeejay Education, who has made an outstanding contribution towards education industry and society at large. The inculcation of human values is the cornerstone of all our institutions. The overarching goal is to bring about harmony in the physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual development of the students. I congratulate all those who have got prizes today and to those who have not, I would like to say that never give up on your dreams and soar it up with your determination,” Dr Neha Berlia shared and concluded her address with the words of Swami Vivekananda: ‘Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is achieved’.

Mr Nayyar shared a one-point agenda highlighting to let children be free. Children should learn to grow themselves along with the challenges of the world. This will improve their survival, independence and growth skills. He urged the parents to support their kids from a distance. 

Mr Tripathi, warmly expressed his gratitude to the school for nurturing not only his academic abilities but also his moral compass. Reflecting on his journey, he inspired the students by illustrating how the school’s guidance, values, and the unwavering support of teachers continue to shape his path and fuel his aspirations.

The award ceremony emerged as a glittering spectacle of the evening, a splendid tribute to the extraordinary achievements of the school’s talented students. It was a celebration of their relentless hard work, unwavering dedication, and steadfast perseverance. Each accolade stood as a shining testament to their pursuit of excellence, be it in academics, sports, or the arts. Beyond recognising individual accomplishments, the ceremony served as a source of inspiration for all, instilling the virtues of determination, resilience, and the relentless quest for greatness.

It was then time to read out the school’s Annual Report showcasing the academic as well as co-curricular activities, infrastructure development and the school’s continued commintment to holistic education. Some of the academic achievements included Class X and XII school toppers; Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values and all-rounder awards. Then arrived the moment the audience had been eagerly anticipating; the stage came alive with mesmerising performances that enthralled and enchanted all. One after another, the acts unfolded with remarkable flair and artistry, leaving the spectators spellbound and immersed in a celebration of talent, creativity, and sheer passion.

The vibrant Rajasthani dance performance on Padharo Mharo Desh mesmerised the audience, as the children, dressed in striking green and yellow ensembles, moved with infectious energy and rhythm. Their lively expressions, synchronised steps, and colourful attire brought the rich cultural tapestry of Rajasthan to life, leaving everyone enthralled.

The grand finale brought the evening to a spectacular close with a dazzling musical drama that enthralled the audience, celebrating the limitless spirit of talent, creativity, and cultural heritage. The performance paid a heartfelt tribute to the timeless legacy of Karna, the valiant warrior and magnanimous giver from The Mahabharat. Through a riveting enactment of his journey, the young performers brought iconic characters of Kunti, Surya Dev, Dronacharya, Arjun, and Duryodhan to life with remarkable energy and precision. Each child embraced their role with confidence and finesse, creating a theatrical spectacle that left the audience mesmerized and inspired, culminating in a truly memorable finale.

This was followed by a breathtaking tribute to the 150th Anniversary of the National Song, Vande Mataram. Through a seamless blend of music, dance, and patriotic fervour, the performance beautifully evoked the enduring spirit, pride, and love for the motherland. The presentation resonated deeply with the audience, celebrating the timeless legacy and cultural richness of the nation in a truly mesmerising and evocative manner.

The programme drew to a graceful close with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks, expressing deep gratitude to the esteemed guests, parents, teachers, and students whose contributions made the evening memorable. The Annual Appreciation Day emerged as a luminous celebration of the timeless truth that honour is born of struggle, and duty performed with unwavering sincerity invariably leads to dignity, the very essence of Dharamchakra-Sangharsh Se Samman Tak.