Artists and art connoisseurs live an eternal life. Indeed, the statement stands tall even in the face of changing times for they touch the hearts of many through their words and actions. Apeejay School, Tanda Road and Apeejay School, Model Town in Jalandhar recently commemorated the 98th birth anniversary of such a divine soul, Smt. Rajeshwari Paul, wife of Apeejay Education’s Founder-Chairman, Dr Stya Paul.
Smt. Rajeshwari Paul, the First Lady of the Apeejay Stya Group was an ardent art lover, a talented musician and dancer herself and a pillar of encouragement to several budding artists.
To pay tribute to the enlightened soul, students and teachers came together in Apeejay School, Model Town for a special assembly. The day began with the chanting of shlokas and lighting of the ceremonial lamp by Principal, Mr. Malkiat Singh. He offered a floral tribute to Late Smt. Rajeshwari Paul while students sang various bhajans and performed dances in honour of the First Lady of the Group.
Remembering the divine soul, Mr. Malkiat Singh, Principal of the School said, “Smt. Rajeshwari Kala Utsav is a truly unique concept in the present day materialistic world . It brings us to our roots and makes us think about our rich valued culture. At Apeejay School Model Town, we strongly feel that art and culture have an essential part in every country’s growth. It is reflected in attitude, beliefs, and traditions. Culture and creativity are present in all economic, social, and other activities of human lives.”
The auspicious occasion was presided over by Chief Guest, Ms.Nidhi Beri, a renowned Kathak Guru and dancer. Ms. Devika Kocchar, a notable Bharatanatyam Guru was the special invitee, who mesmerised the audience with a classical dance performance. Also, renowned singer, Ms.Preeti Prasad graced the occasion and regaled the audience with her melodious voice.
School students Dhvani Gupta, Sanchia Jindal, Pavni Bhalla, Navdeep, Vaani Tayal and Gurinder Shahi showcased dance and song performances. Students, Talin Aggarwal, Bhavesh Aggarwal and Janya Aggarwal, also presented a nukkad natak on the joyous occasion.
On this special day, an art competition was also held for the students. It provided a platform for the students to showcase their artistic creations. A beautiful message by President Madam, Ms. Sushma Paul Berlia was read by the Principal, Mr. Malkiat Singh. He enlightened the students about the vast contribution of Smt. Rajeshwari Paul towards art and culture. He also shared that the First Lady was an accomplished dancer, musician and an ardent supporter of women education as well as empowerment.
Similarly, commemorating the occasion, Apeejay School, Tanda Road, Jalandhar also organised an art and craft exhibition, Rajeshwari Kala Utsav, to pay tribute to the enlightened soul. The remarkable artwork of students from classes Nursery to 8 was exhibited.
The creative ideas behind the spectacular artworks left all viewers not only astonished, but also full of praises for the incredible talent. Parents were also invited to the Kala Utsav to motivate the students.
Speaking on the ocassion, Mr. Girish Kumar said, “”The maiden edition of ‘Rajeshwari Kala Utsav’ was a festival of art and culture in Apeejay School, Tanda Road, Jalandhar. It commemorated the 98th birth anniversary of Smt Rajeshwari Paul. The art gallery of the school exhibited students’ paintings and art-works and was duly inaugurated and visited by all.”
Thus, the exhibition was a fun exercise which helped students and parents understand that art is a powerful medium of education.