Media Release
Mangaluru, Mar 10: Carmel English Medium Higher Primary School, Kotekar, CBSE, celebrated International Women’s Day with great fervor and reverence in the school auditorium. The event was organized under the theme 'Give to Gain', served as a powerful tribute to the resilience, sacrifices, and unwavering strength of women who shape our families and society. The occasion was graced by the chief guest, Remona Evette Pereira, a renowned Bharatanatyam dancer and Golden Book of World Records holder. She was accompanied on the dais by the principal, Sr Pramila, administrator Sr Julie Ann, and vice principal Sr Anitha.
The celebration commenced with a soulful prayer service led by the students. Recognizing that women carry strength, compassion, and faith in their hearts. Following the prayer, the stage came alive with a series of cultural performances that blended grace with deep social messages. A rhythmic welcome dance greeted the guests, symbolizing the spirit of inclusivity. This was followed by the formal welcome and introduction of the guests, which was gracefully conducted by Tr Saritha. The chief guest Remona Evette Pereira, a final-year BA student at St Aloysius Deemed to be University, Remona began her Bharatanatyam journey at the age of two and a half under the unwavering support of her mother, Gladis Pereira.
Over 18 years, her dedication has earned her the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (2022) and four world records, including a 170-hour continuous dance marathon that earned her the title 'Golden Girl'. A TEDx speaker who has performed for the President of India, she also uses her art to empower children with special needs and the transgender community and a segment highlighting the significance of the day, where students reflected on how women carry responsibility with grace and face challenges with courage. In recognition of her extraordinary achievements and contribution to the arts, she was formally felicitated by the school management. This was followed by formal welcome to the guest present on dias.
To inspire the audience, the students presented the life journeys of famous women whose determination transformed their struggles into global success. The artistic tributes continued with a powerful "Shakti" dance by the boys, celebrating the inner fire and confidence that resides in every woman. This was followed by a moving performance titled 'Aisa Kyun Maa', a heartfelt tribute to the unconditional love and nurturing power of mothers who stand strong for their children. The students also utilized silent expression through a Mime performance to highlight the unspoken struggles and quiet courage of women, alongside a meaningful skit titled 'Amma Offline', which delivered a poignant message about the value of maternal presence. The cultural segment concluded with a soulful group dance and a harmony-filled group song that resonated with the themes of love and resilience.
A significant highlight of the event was the address by the chief guest, Remona Evette Pereira. She urged the students to never ever doubt themselves and to pursue what they love with sincerity. Emphasizing that a mother is a strength, she credited her own success to her mother’s unwavering support as her 'backbone'. She further encouraged the students to accept failures as essential lessons, noting that life is about learning. In a call for equality, she stated that there are no gender-based barriers in any field and encouraged everyone to explore life to its fullest potential.
The programme concluded with a formal note of gratitude was delivered, expressing sincere thanks to the management, staff, and students who made the celebration a grand success. The event ended with a closing promise to respect and stand beside women, ensuring a world where every woman feels valued and safe, because when we honour women, we honour humanity.