Pics: Nayana J C
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)
Mangaluru, Dec 20: Podar International School, Mangaluru, celebrated its annual day, ‘Spandan’, with great enthusiasm and cultural vibrancy at the Town Hall here on Saturday, December 20. The grand event served as a delightful showcase of students’ talent, unity and creativity, while also highlighting the school’s commitment to holistic education.
The programme was thoughtfully divided into two segments — Kindergarten (Pre-KG to KG) and students from Class 1 onwards — with each segment presented under a unique theme that captivated the audience.
The Kindergarten segment was themed ‘Jumbo ke Sang Sur aur Saaz ka Sangam’, a colourful musical journey that introduced young learners to India’s rich and diverse musical heritage.
The tiny tots mesmerised the audience by presenting various traditional musical instruments from across the country, including the Veena of Karnataka, Dhol of Punjab, Sarangi of Bihar, Nagara of Madhya Pradesh and Chumat of Goa, among others. Their lively performances beautifully blended music, rhythm and culture, earning loud applause from parents and guests.
The chief guest for the Kindergarten segment was Sheela Balamurali, Principal, Delhi Public School, MRPL, Mangaluru. In her address, she praised the programme and expressed her admiration for the performances, stating that the joy and confidence displayed by the children were truly heart-warming.
She remarked that the most beautiful music for parents and teachers is the sound of their children, and that such programmes reflect the nurturing environment provided by the school. She also appreciated the hard work of the students and teachers, as well as the efforts behind the scenes, and wished everyone a wonderful day.
The second segment, featuring students from Class 1 onwards, was presented under the theme ‘Tenali Rama – A Witty Court Jester’. Through engaging performances and storytelling, the students brought to life the wisdom, humour and intelligence of Tenali Rama, leaving the audience thoroughly entertained.
The chief guest for this segment was Netra N, Principal, Podar International School, Udupi. Addressing the gathering, he thanked the school for the invitation and appreciated the thoughtful selection of the theme. Speaking to parents, he emphasised that children should be nurtured in a “garden, not a factory”, highlighting the importance of allowing every child to grow uniquely rather than following a fixed mould.
He encouraged parents to support their children beyond conventional career expectations and linked the theme to the importance of the three Cs — Curiosity, Confidence and Correctness. He expressed happiness at being part of the celebration.
Dr Girish Kumar, Principal, Podar International School, Mangaluru, recalled the mission and vision of the institution and highlighted the school’s focus on academic excellence, values and overall personality development. He expressed gratitude to parents for their continuous support and trust, appreciated the dedication of teachers and staff, and congratulated the students for their impressive performances.
Teachers, parents, staff members and students were present in large numbers, making the event a memorable one.
The Annual Day celebration concluded on a joyful note, reflecting the collective effort, talent and spirit of the Podar family, and leaving the audience with cherished memories of a truly wonderful day.