Media Release

Mangaluru, Aug 15: Lourdes Central School celebrated 79th Independence Day with great pride and patriotism in the school grounds on August 15. The programme commenced with a grand entry of the school band, marching in perfect rhythm and leading the dignitaries-chief guest Mahesh Kumar Holla, manager of LCS Dr John Baptist Saldanha, principal Fr Johnson L Sequeira, vice principal Anitha Thomas, vice president Ashok Pinto, Bejai parish pastoral parishad's Fr Arul Joseph, head boy Aryan Pai, head girl Kyra Hansika, deputy head boy Jaydon Baptist and deputy head girl Eva Lisa D’Souza to the stage.

The scouts, guides and red cross in crisp uniforms filled the atmosphere with patriotic spirit.

The flag hoisting ceremony was conducted by the chief guest Mahesh Kumar Holla and the dignitaries were accompanied by the singing of the National Anthem by the school choir. This was followed by a prayer song in Hindi seeking blessings for the unity and progress of the country.

Bhoomika S Anchan and Vidhat B Shetty of class 10 E welcomed the gathering and Shriyana Mallya of class 10D explained the significance of the day in Hindi reminding everyone of the sacrifices made by the freedom fighters.

Suneeta K, the academic coordinator introduced the chief guest Mahesh Kumar Holla (ex SNCO Indian Air Force) highlighting his contributions and achievements to the country. He served the Indian Air Force for more than two decades and has cleared various competitive exams and is currently serving as executive officer of Taluk Panchayat in Mangaluru.

The cheerful and smiling chief guest Mahesh Kumar Holla addressed the students and asked them to celebrate each Independence Day with joy and pride. He also mentioned that India is a strong democracy because of its constitution and the Preamble gives the independence to exercise freedom.

The manager, Dr John Baptist Saldanha spoke on the occasion and in his short and powerful message asked the students to live in unity which exists in the Lourdite family.

To enhance the celebratory spirit, a patriotic song was presented by the school choir, touching every heart in the audience. A patriotic dance performance by the students showcased the talent, love and respect for the country. The whole programme was compered in English by Aman Karkera, Tanvi Shetty Vidhanth from 10D and Rovina Andrade, Madeeha, Shravan Dharmaraj of class 10 E in Hindi and was telecasted live from the school.

The event concluded with the vote of thanks, delivered by Jayden Baptist and Eva Lisa D’Souza expressing gratitude to all who contributed to making the programme a grand success. Finally, the gathering joined in the powerful slogan Bharat Mata Ki Jai echoing in the school grounds and igniting a sense of unity and pride among all.

The celebration was a memorable tribute to the freedom fighters and a reminder of the duty to the nation.