The two-day Annual Appreciation Day at Apeejay School, Pitampura, opened with spirited performances and meaningful ceremonies, setting the tone for a celebration marked by elegance, emotion, and pride. The event remains a cherished school tradition, honouring student achievements, reinforcing holistic, value-based education, and bringing the entire community together to reflect on a shared journey of learning and growth.
This year’s theme, Amigos-Friends for Life, highlighted the lifelong bonds that shape character and enrich the school experience. The event on Day 1 was graced by the Chief Guest, Ms Soumya Saurabh, District Magistrate and Deputy Commissioner, North-West District, Delhi. The event was virtually attended by Dr Neha Berlia, Co-Family Business Owner, Core Board Member of the Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, and Pro-Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University.
The event was also attended by Mr NN Nayyar, Senior Education Officer, Apeejay Education and Ms Anita Paul, Education Officer, Apeejay Education. Also present at the occasion were school Principals from sister schools of Apeejay Education and esteemed alumni of Apeejay School, Pitampura.
On Day 2, the event was graced by Mr Himanshu Gupta, Secretary, CBSE, Ministry of Education. Professor Dhananjay Joshi, Former Founder Vice Chancellor, Delhi Teachers University, Former Dean University School of Education, GGSIP University and Professor Sidharth Mishra, Professor-Chairperson, VSJMC&VRC, were Guests of Honour. Dignitaries and members of Apeejay Education were also present.
The celebration began with a bigul to the Chief Guest and the invited dignitaries. The school band, dressed smartly in black and white, played rhythmic beats that filled the auditorium with expectancy. Their coordinated beats created an atmosphere of grandeur befitting the occasion. Reinforcing the school’s commitment to environmental consciousness, the dignitaries were greeted with saplings, a symbolic gesture of sustainability and growth.
The formal programme commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, performed by the Chief Guest, distinguished members of the management, and dignitaries. As the flame rose, signifying knowledge, purity and enlightenment, the school choir presented Mitra Stuti, a melodious invocation that infused the hall with serenity and reverence.
The cultural segment unfolded with a rich orchestral presentation that transformed the stage into a vibrant soundscape. The young musicians played with remarkable finesse; strings, percussion and wind instruments merging into a harmonious blend. The soothing notes of the flute, the lyrical tones of the violin, the resonant depth of the drums and the expressive melodies of the sitar, keyboard and melodica created an immersive musical experience.
The stage then welcomed the youngest performers of the school in Forever Friends Fantasy, a Pre-primary showcase bursting with innocence and joy. Dressed in colourful costumes, the little ones sang and danced with spontaneous charm to songs from the movie Grease. Their bright smiles, animated expressions and playful energy celebrated the simplicity and beauty of early friendships.
In her address, Mrs Veena Goel, Principal, Apeejay School, Pitampura, paid a heartfelt tribute to Dr Stya Paul, Founder-Chairman, Apeejay Stya and Svran Group, whose timeless vision of value-based, holistic education continues to guide every endeavour of the institute. She expressed deep gratitude to Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairman, Apeejay Stya & Svran Group, Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University, and Chairman, Apeejay Education, whose dynamic leadership, academic foresight and unwavering commitment to excellence have strengthened the organisation’s reputation and enriched every Apeejay Education institute.
Accompanied by the school’s head boy, head girl, sports vice-captain and Interact Club president, the school Principal then presented the Annual Report. She highlighted the school’s continued excellence in academics, including outstanding CBSE results and recognition among the top institutes of the city. The school’s receipt of the British Council’s RIDS (Recognition of International Dimension in Schools) Award and its designation as a Blue School underscored its commitment to global engagement and environmental responsibility.
The Principal acknowledged exceptional achievements across sports, cultural activities, community outreach and international collaborations. Initiatives like the Interact Club’s service programmes, mental wellness drives, inclusive education workshops, global exchange partnerships, cultural festivals and the Kaizen Model United Nations were presented as integral components of the school’s holistic vision. The report celebrated the dedication of teachers and the perseverance of students who continued to uphold the tradition of excellence.
The Chief Guest, Ms Saurabh, then addressed the gathering with a heartfelt and reflective speech delivered in the first person. “As we celebrate excellence, I want to talk about something that concerns every parent and student: Marks, ranks and expectations. In today’s competitive world, it is easy to believe that success is defined only by scores. But marks measure performance, not potential. A rank captures only a single moment, not the entire journey or ability of a child,” she shared
To the students, she said: Set high goals, work with commitment and give your best. What will truly shape your future is your character, your values and your willingness to keep improving.
For the parents, she had a humble request. “Encourage your children without comparing them to others. Every child grows differently and learns at a unique pace. Your support, patience and understanding play a far greater role in building their confidence than any report card. Children need space to experiment, make mistakes and discover their strengths. When they feel trusted at home, they flourish both academically and emotionally,” she stated.
Let us remember that success is not only about being first, she added. “It is about becoming resilient, empathetic, disciplined and grounded individuals. My warmest wishes to all the awardees and to every student present for this event. May you continue to strive, grow and make your school proud through both your achievements and your character,” she said.
As Padmashree Ranjana Gauhar was present in absentia, her message was read out. “Heartiest congratulations on Annual Appreciation Day 2025. This year’s theme, Amigos-Friends for Life, reflects the spirit of trust, connection and lifelong bonds that Apeejay Education deeply values. Under the visionary leadership, the school remains a beacon of values-driven learning, where excellence blends with compassion and character. The theme reminds us that true learning grows through friendship and shared experiences. Wishing the Apeejay family continued success and togetherness.”
Speaking virtually, Dr Neha Berlia said, “Apeejay Education, with its legacy of over five decades, 26 institutions and a strong global alumni network, stands firmly on the values set by my grandfather, Dr Stya Paul. His belief in harmonising knowledge with values continues under the dynamic leadership of my mother, Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia.
“This year’s theme, Amigos-Friends for Life, holds deep meaning. Friendship is the hand that lifts you when you stumble and the voice that believes in you when you doubt yourself. To my dear students: Choose friends who elevate you, who challenge you, who remind you of your values,” Dr Neha Berlia advised.
At Apeejay Education, Dr Neha Berlia said, we aim to shape not just accomplished individuals but compassionate, courageous and responsible human beings. Marks and medals will matter, but who you become in the process will matter far more.
“I congratulate every student, those receiving awards and those whose efforts may be quiet but meaningful. Your journey is unfolding beautifully. To parents, thank you for your trust; to teachers, thank you for your dedication; and to students, thank you for reminding us why education is such a beautiful mission,” Dr Neha Berlia shared.
This was followed by the prize distribution ceremony, by the Chief Guest, who was accompanied by the school Principal, a proud moment for students and parents alike. Top achievers from the Science to Commerce, to Humanities streams were honoured with medals and certificates. The President’s Gold Medal marked one of the evening’s high points, while the Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values recognised students who embodied empathy, integrity and service. Awards in sports highlighted exceptional performances in chess, skating, swimming, taekwondo, athletics and table tennis, while accolades in the arts and co-curricular domains reflected the school’s belief in nurturing well-rounded learners.
A memento was then presented to the Chief Guest as a mark of gratitude and respect by the school Principal.
The cultural pinnacle of the evening was the grand dance drama, Amigos-Friends for Life, an expansive and visually arresting production that celebrated the timeless power of friendship. Through expressive choreography, theatrical narration and vivid staging, the performance travelled across stories and eras, weaving together some of the most iconic portrayals of companionship.
The presentation opened with the serene and devotional bond of Krishna and Sudama, portrayed through graceful, fluid movements that reflected selfless affection and unwavering loyalty. It then transitioned into the steadfast and protective friendship between Draupadi and Krishna, expressed through emotionally charged sequences symbolising trust, honour and divine support.
The narrative moved playfully into the magical worlds of Alice in Wonderland, capturing Alice’s curiosity, imagination and the whimsical friendships that guide her through unfamiliar realms. This was followed by the adventurous camaraderie of The Jungle Book and the spellbinding alliances of Harry Potter, both brought to life with energetic choreography and spirited performances.
The drama culminated in the legendary brotherhood of The Three Musketeers, with synchronised action, bold movements and a spirited portrayal of unity and courage under the timeless motto — All for One, and One for All.
With evocative lighting, rich costumes and a powerful musical score with live singing by the school choir, the dance drama offered a moving tribute to the bonds that shape our lives, reminding the audience that true friendship endures across stories, generations and worlds. What truly had everyone in the audience in awe was the grand finale!
The school Vice-principal, Dr Renuka Kamal, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the Chief Guest, management, education officers, dignitaries, principals of sister schools, alumni and parents for their support. She honoured Founder-Chairman Dr Stya Paul and acknowledged the leadership of Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia. She concluded by thanking the teachers, students, staff and technical team for making the celebration meaningful.
With a sense of pride and gratitude, Apeejay School, Pitampura, brought the evening’s celebrations to a close as the students sang the school song, Hum Apeejay Ke Bachche, carrying forward the spirit of unity and accomplishment shared by all.