Take challenges in stride, walk with grace and confidence: IAS Officer advises students 

The notable Greek Philosopher Aristotle once said, “Excellence is an art won by training and habituation.” Rightly so, as each year school students put in their heart and soul to master their talents and perfect their scores. To commemorate accomplishments of its young learners, Apeejay Svran Global School, Sector 21-D, Faridabad held an Annual Prize Distribution Ceremony, 2022-2023 on March 18, 2023.

The Chief Guest of the event was Ms Aparajita, Additional Deputy Commissioner & Faridabad-cum-District Citizen Resources Information Officer, Faridabad. Ms Minakshi Das, an Internationally Renowned Yoga Instructor and Kathak Dancer graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour. Besides, Ms Purnima Vohra, Education Officer at Apeejay Education, Mr Jai Prakash Mavi, a businessman, Mr Sanjay Shukla, President, RWA – Sector 21-D, Faridabad and Mr Pankaj Kumar Srivastava, Joint Secretary, RWA were present.

The bright and beautiful morning was adorned with a power-packed band performance led by student Dhruv Pandit. The group of students displayed a melodious rendition of ‘Sare Jahan Se Acha’ that set the mood for the event. Shortly after, Ms Priti Wason, Principal of the school extended a green welcome to the eminent guests. This was followed by the lamp lighting ceremony to mark the beginning of the big show.

A magical orchestra by students soon transported the audience to a mystical land of music. Their symphony walked hand-in-hand with nature as they evoked blessings of the divine. After this, young minds from classes 2 and 3 performed Ganesh Vandana to ward off the difficulties during the course of the programme. Their cheerful faces and aesthetic moves were a delight to watch.

‘Yoga: Mind’s Harmony’ was the next piece presented by students of classes 2, 3 and 4. In a jiffy, they performed challenging yoga ‘asanas’ with great aplomb to spread awareness about health and fitness. They were a picture of determination, flexibility and harmony.

Soon after, a voice message by Ms Aparajita was broadcasted. She said, “I want to thank Apeejay and Ms Wason for inviting me to the Annual Day. However, due to work commitments, I could not make it. Nonetheless, I express my regards to all and hope that this event brings joy and hope to everyone. Today, there will be success stories as well as good attempts. So, students, I am certain that you have worked tirelessly throughout the year to make your mark. There will be many learning moments, challenges and even disappointments in your path. But, to be able to take it in stride and walk with grace and confidence is the learning behind it all. Be happy, have fun and enjoy your day!”

After this, the Prize Distribution ceremony was held. The awards were presented by Ms Das after which she shared her words of wisdom. She said, “I am honoured to be part of the function today. I pay my regards to all my ‘gurus’ who enabled me to be here. As you all know, the civilizations in India and its culture is ancient as it is deep-rooted in all of us. Yoga is an important part of it and the discipline helps us achieve a fit body and mind. Even the Hindu gods, Shiva and Krishna have mentioned it in our texts. Similarly, ‘nritya’ (dance) is a form of meditation that brings us closer to nature. It has rules and requires a strict regime. So, students, inculcate both of these to enhance your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.” Her speech received massive applause by the gathering as it motivated many to practice healthy living.

Followed by this, Ms Wason addressed the gathering. She said, “I extend my gratitude to all the guests, grandparents, parents, teachers and students for being here today. I deem it an honour to felicitate the Annual Prize Distribution Ceremony of the school. I would like to mention that Apeejay Education is known for its strength of human values paired with holistic education. The foundation stone of Apeejay was laid by Dr Stya Paul, the Late Founder Chairman, who envisioned holistic education of global dimensions leading to man-making and nation-building. His dream, today, stands as a living reality in the form of 26 institutions of Apeejay pan-India.”

She continued, “At present, sir’s legacy is carried forward by his only daughter, Chairperson Madam Sushma Paul Berlia, a leading woman entrepreneur and educationist. On this day, I would also like to thank Mr Nishant Berlia, Co-Promoter Apeejay Stya and Svran Group and Pro-Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University, Mr Aditya Berlia, Co-Promoter of Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, Co-Founder and Pro-Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University and Dr Neha Berlia, Co-Promoter, Apeejay Stya and Svran Group and Pro-Chancellor Apeejay Stya University, for providing us the necessary infrastructure and facilities to put up this show.”

Ms Wason further mentioned the numerous awards and accolades received by her school throughout the academic year. These included achievements across domains such as academics, sports and extracurriculars. In addition to this, she shared several skill-based and value-based programmes in which students and teachers have participated to add to their knowledge. She applauded the efforts of all parents, teachers and students and prayed for their success and good health.

Then, students from classes Nursery and Kindergarten showcased an enthralling performance based on the theme of preserving Mother Earth. They appealed to all to not cut trees and water the plants. The next showcase took the audience to holy India as students related the narrative of Lord Rama. Their performance weaved in melody and spirituality through a divine song as students chanted the name of the Almighty with innocence and pure love. They emphasised how one must learn from epics and practice crucial moral values in life. The second round of the Prize Distribution ceremony was held shortly after.

Next, a Tarana Kathak Dance captivated the audience. In it, two students from the school didn’t skip a ‘taal’ to present their splendid talent. Then, a short skit themed ‘Unity in Diversity’ by students fascinated the gathering and reinforced the message of love and harmony.

The show concluded with a grand finale on the school’s motivational song, ‘Soaring High is My Nature’. Finally, Ms Malvika Sharma delivered the Vote of Thanks and acknowledged all the guests for their presence and cooperation. She gave a special mention to the art, music and dance departments of the school who worked diligently for the function.