Digital dilemma comes alive in winning act by these students

Two students, Nehal Verma and Ahana Shahi, talented Class X students from Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park, recently achieved a major milestone. The duo secured the first position in the event ‘Opinionsmatter – The Haunting Presence of the Virtual, hosted at Apeejay School, Pitampura. This Inter-school competition was a part of the larger Literary Saga – an event that celebrates the power of words, expression, and critical thinking.

The theme of the event revolved around a unique and contemporary idea – the haunting aspect of virtual spaces. In literature, haunting often reflects a presence that lingers, something unsettling that can’t be ignored. Drawing from this interpretation, Nehal and Ahana crafted a thought-provoking piece that examined the darker, lingering effects of social media.

Their performance, titled Ghost in the Feed, brought to life the story of Ava, a character caught in the web of online presence and identity. Ahaana portrayed Ava, while Nehal narrated the unfolding events. Together, they created a moving narrative that highlighted how deeply digital spaces can affect the mind and emotions, subtly, yet powerfully.

Speaking about the event, Ms Neeta Mathur, PGT English said, “To be a mentor teacher for such talented students was a privilege. Their innate acting prowess and creative abilities made them construe an impressionable script which perfectly grasped the essence of the competition.”

Sharing her experience, Nehal said, “It was truly a delightful experience to participate in this event and perform the role of a narrator and stalker. Securing the first position was like hitting a jackpot in an intense competition. It has boosted our confidence and motivated us to look forward to such opportunities.”

Ahana shared, “Not only could we showcase our talent, but it was a great learning experience to watch the performances of other school students, and the feedback we got from judges fostered our desire for self-improvement. As an aspiring actor, I got to perform with full potential.”

A performance that captivated the audience

The duo’s enactment was a mix of emotive performance, engaging dialogue, and sharp commentary. It touched upon themes of isolation, validation-seeking behaviour, and the ever-watchful gaze of the virtual world. Their performance was not only technically sound but also rich in creativity and insight. Their synergy on stage reflected both their confidence and clarity of thought.

This win is a testament to the school’s continued encouragement of literary and artistic exploration. Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park, has always fostered a culture where students are motivated to explore ideas, challenge norms, and present their viewpoints in creative forms. The school takes great pride in this latest achievement and applauds the duo for their exceptional efforts.