Media Release
Mangaluru, Jan 26: St Agnes School CBSE celebrated the 77th Republic Day of India with immense pride and patriotic fervour on January 26. The occasion commemorated the adoption of the Indian Constitution, the longest written constitution in the world and the foundation of the largest democracy. The celebration served as a reminder of the values of unity, liberty and responsibility, inspiring students to grow into responsible citizens of the nation.
The programme began with the gracious arrival of the dignitaries. The principal, Sr Maria Sarika AC, vice principal Sr Meena Fernandes AC, PTA vice president Pradeep Misquith along with the head girl and the guides, escorted the guests to the Flag Arena, accompanied by the school band. The chief guest, Prasanna Poojary (Army former Naik Subedar), unfurled the National Flag, followed by the singing of the National Anthem, filling the atmosphere with pride and unity.
The dignitaries then proceeded to the school auditorium for the cultural programme. The event began with a solemn prayer service, invoking God’s blessings upon the nation. A vibrant welcome dance set a joyful tone for the celebration. The programme was gracefully compered by Reishan Maria Fernandes and Samaira Diya Fernandes of grade VIII D, who warmly welcomed the gathering and guided the programme with confidence and dignity.
The welcome address was delivered by Adline D’Souza of grade VIII. who warmly greeted the gathering and set a patriotic tone for the celebration. The programme was graced by the chief guest, Prasanna Poojary, a former serviceman of the Indian Army with 26 years of dedicated service. As a mark of respect, the chief guest was welcomed with a potted plant presented by the principal, Sr Maria Sarika AC, the PTA vice president, Pardeep Misquith, was also welcomed with a potted plant by the vice principal, Sr Meena Fernandes AC.
The significance of Republic Day was eloquently explained by Simra and Manvi of grade 8, highlighting the true spirit of freedom and responsibility. This was followed by an inspiring patriotic group song which rekindled love for the nation and echoed the pride of being Indian.
The stage then came alive with a delightful array of performances that showcased the talent and enthusiasm of the students. The young learners of class 1 won hearts with their vibrant and energetic dance ‘Nanhe Desh Bhakt,’ spreading innocence, joy and patriotic spirit through every move. Class 8 presented a powerful and thought-provoking skit ‘Our Rights, Our Duties, Our India,’ which sensitively highlighted the harmony between freedom and responsibility in a democratic nation. The celebration of creativity continued with the rhythmic and visually engaging ‘Rhythm of Hands’ performance by class 8, followed by the colourful and lively dance ‘My Country, My Pride’ by the enthusiastic class 1 students, filling the hall with cheer, pride and admiration.
After the cultural performances, the principal escorted the dignitaries to the dais, and the formal proceedings began with the prize distribution ceremony for the maths talent competition, recognising students for their excellence.
The school then proudly honoured Aanya Asif of grade IX for her outstanding literary achievement as the author of the novel ‘Zephyr: The Unholy Prophecy.’ The novel reflects her creativity, imagination and depth of thought, conveying a strong message of self-belief and determination. This marks Aanya’s first self-published book, a remarkable milestone at such a young age The achiever was introduced by Tr Josephine, Aanya was honoured with a shawl, memento, bouquet and a token of appreciation, while her parents were presented with a potted plant. Her remarkable achievement brought great pride to the institution and inspired fellow students.
Next, the chief guest of the day, Prasanna Poojary, was felicitated with a shawl, garland, memento, fruit basket and a token of appreciation as a mark of respect and gratitude for his dedicated service to the nation. He was formally introduced by Tr Vindhya. He enrolled in the Indian Army on November 16, 1996 as an infantry soldier and rendered 26 years of distinguished service across various parts of the country. He retired with honour as a Naik Subedar on October 31, 2021 and is presently serving in the Defence Security Corps (DSC), part II of the Indian Army, posted at the Indian Coast Guard District Headquarters No 3, Panambur, Mangaluru.
This was followed by the inspiring address by the chief guest, in his address, the chief guest, Prasanna Poojary, greeted the gathering on the joyous occasion of Republic Day and expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the management and the respected principal for giving him the opportunity to be a part of the celebration. He appreciated St Agnes School CBSE as an outstanding institution that provides quality education and holistic development in all fields.
He reminded the students that January 26 marks the day when the Indian Constitution was adopted and paid rich tribute to the freedom fighters who toiled tirelessly and made great sacrifices for the nation. Highlighting the strength of Indian democracy, he spoke about unity in diversity and urged students to nurture a strong sense of patriotism and responsibility towards protecting the nation. The respected principal later appreciated the teachers and students for presenting a beautiful and meaningful programme.
Adding to the spirit of celebration, even the KG students celebrated Republic Day with great enthusiasm, participating in age-appropriate patriotic activities, making the occasion joyful and inclusive.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Elisha D’Souza of grade I, expressing gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the celebration. The event came to a fitting close with the school song, sung with pride and unity, leaving everyone with renewed patriotism.