Rajeshwari Kala Utsav 2026: A celebration of art and legacy

As melodies floated through the corridors, colours came alive on canvases, and young performers took centre stage with confidence and grace, Apeejay School, Pitampura, came together to celebrate the Rajeshwari Kala Utsav on July 8, 2026. Organised to commemorate the birth anniversary of Shrimati Rajeshwari Paul, the celebration became a heartfelt tribute to her enduring love for art, culture, creativity, and the holistic development of young minds. 

The event was graced by the presence of Ms Veena Goel, Principal of the school, Senior Vice-principal Dr Renuka Kamal, Vice-principal Dr Mayank Vohra, in-charges, teachers, and students. Together, they paid a heartfelt tribute to the enduring legacy of the late Smt. Rajeshwari Paul Ji through a series of soulful performances, artistic displays, and cultural presentations.

The celebrations commenced with a special primary assembly that set a serene and devotional tone for the day. The programme began with a morning prayer, followed by a graceful devotional dance performance. The young performers then brought the colours of India alive through folk songs representing the cultural traditions of Rajasthan, the hills, Gujarat, and Punjab. Their spirited renditions reflected the country’s rich diversity and the joy of shared heritage.

A captivating Krishna dance added a divine charm to the assembly, while the percussion orchestra created an atmosphere of rhythm, energy, and celebration. The programme concluded with the school song, leaving the audience filled with pride and warmth.

One of the most striking highlights of Rajeshwari Kala Utsav was the art exhibition, which transformed the school into a visual celebration of imagination and expression. Every corner reflected the dedication, creativity, and heartfelt effort of the students. The exhibition was thoughtfully curated around themes such as sankalp, representing the power of creativity; shraddha, celebrating devotion; and sanskriti, showcasing the richness of India’s cultural heritage.

The displays featured an impressive range of artwork, including Echoes of Nature, anime-inspired creations, abstract art, bottle art, best-out-of-waste installations, and many other innovative pieces. The vibrancy of the exhibition, the careful adornment of the spaces, and the originality of the artwork made the entire experience feel truly surreal. 

Students also enthusiastically explained the thought and process behind their creations. Class VI students Anisha and Aarna conducted a live demonstration of Madhubani art, sharing its historical roots and distinctive artistic style with visitors. Their presentation reflected both confidence and a deep appreciation for India’s traditional art forms.

Dhruva Ghuriani drew attention with her intricate bottle art. She explained how she used mud clay and natural elements to create a piece inspired by the beauty of nature. She also expressed gratitude to her teachers, acknowledging their constant guidance and encouragement in helping her bring her idea to life.

Nysa of Class XI showcased a delicate flora-and-fauna-themed butterfly painting created using brush pens. With the clever use of masking tape to ensure clean lines and prevent colours from spilling, she created a visually striking representation of a butterfly drawing nectar from a flower. Her artwork stood out for its fine detailing, technique, and sensitivity towards nature. 

The major cultural programme was held in the school’s Multipurpose Hall, where the atmosphere was charged with anticipation and admiration. Two students of Class IX confidently took charge as comperes, guiding the audience through a memorable sequence of performances.  

The programme opened with a soulful solo flute performance by Avyaan Dutta of Class VII, accompanied beautifully on the tabla by Arnav. The soothing notes of the flute created a calm and reflective beginning. This was followed by a solo violin performance by Inaya Gupta, whose expressive rendition held the audience’s attention from the very first note.

The musical journey continued with the group choir presentation of Saanson Ki Mala Pe. Dressed in white kurtas and blue jeans, the students performed in perfect harmony, creating a visually elegant and musically moving experience. The Class VII girls’ choir then presented Kaagaz Ke Do Pankh Le Ke, adding a youthful and melodious charm to the programme.

An exceptional piano duet by Class X students RK Pradyuman and Aarav Verma was another highlight of the evening. Their synchronised performance reflected remarkable skill, discipline, and musical understanding. The audience was then treated to an energetic western-classical dance fusion by students of Classes VIII and IX. The performance blended rhythm, grace, and contemporary expression, earning enthusiastic applause.

The senior choir of Class XI delivered a soulful rendition of Chaap Tilak, filling the hall with melody and emotion. Class VI boys followed with Saath Chalein Hum, a performance that celebrated togetherness, friendship, and unity.

One of the most emotional moments of the programme came with the Class IX students’ tribute song, Meri Maa, dedicated to Late Smt. Rajeshwari Paul Ji. The heartfelt performance touched every member of the audience and beautifully conveyed the affection, respect, and gratitude associated with her legacy.

Dhruv of Class XI then captivated everyone with an exquisite solo song performance. The cultural programme also featured a graceful dance presentation by Class V students, who appeared in striking red-and-white sarees and performed to Raghukul Reet Sada Chali Aayi. Their poised movements and traditional attire added a powerful cultural touch to the celebration.

Vice-principal Dr Vohra addressed the gathering and shared a few thoughtful words. In a touching moment, he also sang a verse from Tujhe Sab Hai Pata Hai Na Maa, further deepening the emotional resonance of the occasion.

The celebrations continued with the senior assembly programme held in the school’s open auditorium. It began with a soulful prayer, Tera Shukriya Hai, setting a reverent and peaceful mood. The students then presented an orchestra performance, followed by the devotional choir rendition of Shiv Kailashon Ke Vaasi.

An exceptional fusion dance performance brought together varied styles and artistic expressions, followed by a spirited presentation of the Freedom Anthem. The energy rose further with a lively Bhangra folk dance that had the audience cheering with enthusiasm.

Taking the centre stage, the Principal extended a warm welcome to everyone present. July 8 is special to us as it is Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia’s, Chairman, Apeejay Stya & Svran Group, Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University, and Chairman, Apeejay Education, mother’s birth anniversary.

“To honour her, we want to celebrate it with art, dance, and music. Something very dear to her heart. We are gathered here, from Classes VI to XII, to showcase our best, Ms Goel said and read out the message sent by Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia.

”Today is a very special day. The 102nd birth anniversary of my beloved mother, the late Mrs Rajeshwari Paulji. In fact, the day is so special that I want it to be a unique day for a special kind of celebration. A celebration that acknowledges the art, appreciation, aesthetics, and generosity that were unique to Mrs Rajeshwari Paul. Rightfully, these have organically become the characteristics of Apeejay education as well. Love for art and culture was inflamed in the very persona of her. She had an abiding love for both performing arts and visual arts.

Mrs Rajeshwari Paulji’s vision was to facilitate holistic development in the educational arena. Through the motion of art, she was a noble soul with a vibrant personality, known always for giving unconditional love and grace. She had a keen interest in English literature and was intelligent and brilliant. Had wide-ranging interests and was a charming conversationalist. She was fond of dancing and swimming, among other things. She loved to play the harmonium and had a keen interest in Indian classical dance.

I am glad that we are celebrating her birthday as a way to rejoice and appreciate dance, drama, theatre, and the display of an art exhibition. As well as recognising aesthetics and talent during the special assembly that is being conducted. She was an inspirational source to my esteemed father, the late Dr.Stya Paul, industrialist, philanthropist, legal fighter, administrator, educationist, and above all, a great human being who stood for promoting the art and culture of India at a time when these were not valued as much as they are now.

Both my parents shared each other’s nobility, kindness, hard work, commitment, love for Indian art and culture, and a simple living with high ideals rarely found in the vast materialistic world of today. I feel that when very few institutions envisioned promoting arts as mainstream courses, Dr Stya Paul, with the able support of Shrimati Rajeshwari Paul, brought the fine arts from the windows of the curricula to the courts and accepted Rajeshwari Kala Sangam, purely dedicated to the promotion of art and culture of India. It evolved as a temple of arts where renowned artists mesmerise the audiences.

It also paved the way for the Indian College of Fine Arts and courses of art, culture, and education, and even though Shrimati Rajeshwari Paul’s physical presence is not with us, the legacy of art, culture, and generosity of spirit continues to live and thrive in our institutions and in the hearts of all of us. This special celebration is all about the positive qualities she embodies. Let us today remember and uphold the ethos she exemplified. Compassion, generosity, and kind-heartedness. Humility and joy.

Thank you.”

Ms Goel also appreciated the collective efforts of students, teachers, coordinators, and all those who contributed to making the Rajeshwari Kala Utsav a memorable occasion. The day concluded with the school song, Hum Apeejay Ke Bachche, echoing across the campus as a proud reminder of the institution’s shared values, creativity, and spirit of togetherness.

Rajeshwari Kala Utsav 2026 was not merely an event; it was a heartfelt tribute to a legacy that continues to encourage young minds to create, express, celebrate culture, and lead with values.