Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached – Swami Vivekananda
On January 12, Apeejay School, Kharghar, marked National Youth Day 2026 with great reverence and enthusiasm, commemorating the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, one of India’s most revered spiritual leaders, philosophers, and an enduring source of inspiration for the youth. The celebration served as a meaningful platform to revisit his life, ideals, and teachings, while motivating students to embrace values such as self-belief, discipline, service to humanity, and dedication towards nation-building.
The programme began with a special assembly, which set a reflective and motivating tone for the day. The assembly featured a ‘thought of the day’ that encouraged introspection, followed by an inspiring incident from the life of Swami Vivekananda presented in Hindi, highlighting his courage, wisdom, and moral strength. This was complemented by a concise yet informative presentation in English on his life and achievements, helping students understand his journey and contribution to society. Adding a regional and cultural dimension to the assembly, Mrs Sushma, a teacher, narrated a story in Marathi on Swami Vivekananda’s teachings, effectively conveying powerful moral lessons and life values in a simple and engaging manner.
Following the assembly, the school was addressed by the school Principal, Dr Sonali Balwatkar, who spoke eloquently about the relevance of Swami Vivekananda’s philosophy in today’s fast-changing world. She emphasised the importance of character building, self-discipline, resilience, and a strong value system among students. Her inspiring words encouraged learners to recognise their inner strength, nurture a positive outlook, and grow into responsible, compassionate individuals committed to the progress of the nation.
To reinforce the significance of National Youth Day, a series of creative and value-based activities were organised during the enrichment and first period. Students participated enthusiastically in bookmark making, poster designing, and slogan writing, drawing inspiration from Swami Vivekananda’s quotes and ideals. Students of Classes VIII and IX showcased their understanding through thought-provoking posters on themes like Empowering Youth, Empowering Nation and Youth for a Sustainable Future, highlighting the crucial role of young minds in nation-building and sustainable development.
The celebration proved to be a deeply enriching experience for the entire school community. Through the special assembly, the Principal’s address, and well-planned activities, students gained valuable insights into Swami Vivekananda’s philosophy. The event successfully inspired them to cultivate confidence, integrity, responsibility, and a spirit of service; reinforcing the belief that empowered youth form the backbone of a strong, progressive India.