The Art of Man-making: “Compassion helps us understand others better”

Winning the Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values is a matter of great pride and inspiration for students across Apeejay institutions. For Lavanya Gupta, a bright learner from Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg class XI A, this honour is more than just recognition — it is a reminder of the importance of being a good human being. In this conversation, Lavanya shares how her values guide her actions, both inside and outside the classroom.

Read edited excerpts:

Lavanya, congratulations on receiving the Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values! What does this award mean to you?
Thank you so much! This award means a lot to me because it’s not just about academics, but about the kind of person I am becoming. It reminds me that being kind, honest, and helpful is just as important as getting good marks. It makes me feel grateful and motivated to continue living by the values that my school has always taught me.

Can you share an experience when you practiced these values in school life?
Yes, once during a group project, one of my friends fell ill and couldn’t complete her part. Instead of blaming her, I decided to help her finish the work so that our project would be completed on time. It taught me that understanding and helping others is far more valuable than just focusing on my own success.

Which human value do you connect with the most?
I connect most with compassion. I believe that when we are kind and empathetic, everything else—like honesty and integrity—follows naturally. Compassion helps us understand others better and makes our surroundings more positive and peaceful.

How do you try to live by these values every day?
I try to live by these ideals by being a responsible and aware citizen. Whether it’s taking part in school community activities, caring for the environment, or helping others, I believe that every small effort contributes to a better society. If we build good human beings, we automatically build a strong nation.

Who has influenced your understanding of human values the most?
My teachers have played a huge role in shaping who I am. They have taught me not only lessons from books but also how to be a good human being. Their encouragement and patience have taught me humility, respect, and hard work.

What values have your parents instilled in you at home?
My family never compromises on honesty. My parents always tell me to speak the truth, even if it’s difficult. They’ve taught me that honesty builds trust and respect, which are the foundation of every strong relationship.

What message would you like to give your juniors about this award?
I would tell them that this award is not something you just win — it’s something you live. Be kind, be truthful, and do small acts of goodness every day. Even simple things like helping a friend, respecting elders, or being honest when no one is watching truly matter.