Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 15: Ladyhill School (ICSE), Urwa, Mangaluru, came alive with vibrant patriotism as the entire school celebrated the nation’s 80th Independence Day with pride, joy and fervour. The school ground echoed with the spirit of freedom and love for the motherland. Organised and presented by the spirited students of grades VI A and VII A, the celebration was a lively and memorable tribute to India’s freedom and rich heritage.
The celebration commenced on a grand and dignified note with the arrival of the chief guest, George Pinto, retired deputy commissioner of Excise and Enforcement, accompanied by joint secretary Sr Maria Kripa, administrator Sr Ida Barboza, principal Sr Therese Teena, headmistress of Kannada Primary School Sr Magdaline, vice principal Tr Lavita Correa, and PTA vice president Paresh Narendra. Head boy Pranad and head girl Krithika Ganesh escorted the dignitaries to the flag post.
Following the flag hoisting by the chief guest, the school ground burst into patriotic energy as students of Grades V to VIII, along with the Cubs, Bulbuls, Scouts and Guides, marched proudly in the march past. With disciplined steps, synchronised movements and confident bearing, the young marchers created a stirring spectacle, beautifully reflecting the values of unity, discipline, teamwork and love for the nation.
The gathering then moved to the school hall, where the stage programme unfolded in a vibrant celebration of patriotism, culture and national pride. Woven around the inspiring theme ‘Viksit Bharat’, the programme brought together creativity, youthful energy and a deep sense of love for the nation, setting the stage for a memorable celebration of India’s progress and aspirations.
The inspiring theme ‘Viksit Bharat’ came alive through the powerful voices of five young representatives, each symbolising a vital pillar of a progressive India. Shawn D’Souza, as the soldier, represented Atmanirbhar Defence; Anika D’Souza, as the scientist, celebrated Indigenous Technologies; Sheron Roshwin Francis, as the farmer, reflected the promise of a Green Transition; Diya Deekshitha, as a teacher, highlighted the transformative power of Education; and Ana Katherina Samuel, as the youth, embodied the boundless dreams and aspirations of a rising India. Together, their vibrant presence and inspiring messages captured a powerful truth—that the journey towards a developed India is fueled by the vision, dedication and dreams of its young generation.
The stage programme continued with a meaningful prayer service, seeking God’s blessings on the nation and its people. The prayerful atmosphere was enriched by the presentation of five powerful symbols—the light, National Flag, constitution, soldier’s cap and charkha—each representing hope, freedom, sacrifice, duty and self-reliance. Together, they offered a poignant reminder of our shared responsibility towards building a strong and united India.
The celebration continued on a vibrant note with a graceful welcome dance, filling the hall with colour, rhythm and festive energy. Pavani Shrikara Rao and Kushi H warmly welcomed the gathering and introduced the chief guest. The spirit and significance of India’s freedom then unfolded through “The Torch of Freedom,” a touching presentation honouring the courage, sacrifice and determination of the freedom fighters. This was followed by energetic patriotic dances that stirred national pride, and a thought-provoking skit, “India’s Journey of Excellence,” which beautifully portrayed the nation’s remarkable progress, achievements and hopes for a brighter and more prosperous future.
The theme song, “Together We Stand,” beautifully captured the heart of the celebration, the strength of India’s unity in diversity. Through soulful music and vibrant movements, the students conveyed a powerful message: when we stand together with one heart and one vision, our nation moves forward, stronger and brighter.
The chief guest George Pinto urged the young minds to love, serve and contribute meaningfully to their motherland. Encouraging the students to study diligently, embrace discipline and dream of serving the nation through the civil services, he reminded them that every individual has a role to play in shaping India’s future. His heartfelt words ignited a sense of purpose and responsibility, inspiring the students to become responsible citizens and active builders of a stronger, brighter and developed India.
The celebration continued with the prize distribution ceremony, where the chief guest felicitated students for their outstanding sporting achievements. Kshamaya Amin of Grade VIII was honoured for securing gold medal in Under-14 Girls’ 600m race at the CISCE Regional Athletic Meet and was selected for the Nationals. Prapti Maji of Grade VIII was honoured for securing II place in 200m and III place in 100m, earning selection to the Karnataka Relay Team for the Nationals. Bhramitha Kishore of Grade VIII was honoured for her selection to the National-level Volleyball Team. Their achievements reflected dedication, perseverance and true sporting excellence.
The prize distribution ceremony celebrated and honoured the winners of various Independence Day competitions, recognising the talent, enthusiasm and achievements of students from grades I to VIII.
The winners of the marchpast were felicitated by the dignitaries for their disciplined, coordinated and impressive performance. The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the chief guest, dignitaries, teachers, students, parents and all who contributed to its success.
The 80th Independence Day celebration at Ladyhill School (ICSE) was a vibrant tribute to freedom, unity and patriotism, inspiring young minds to cherish the nation’s legacy and play their part in building a stronger, united and Viksit Bharat.