Class I interacts with peers in Vietnam on Baisakhi

“Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” – Malcolm X

Education is more than just learning how to read and write. It is a lifelong opportunity to understand more. Also, it broadens our perspectives to help us learn about different societies and cultures.

On 13 April 2021, the students of class 1 got an opportunity to interact with educator, Ms Anh Duong Nguyen and her students in Vietnam.

The session began with an introduction of India and Vietnam by the two sets of students. After the customary greetings, the two groups took turns to introduce themselves. They talked about their favourite food, their favourite sport and how are each coping with the pandemic.

This was followed by a discussion on Baisakhi by our Foundationers. The students on the other side were explained the importance of this festival by Khanak Goyal and Maanvika Kasana, who said that Baisakhi is not only the harvest festival of North India but also a very significant day on the Indian calendar. It was on Baisakhi day, in the year 1699 that the legendary Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa Panth which gave a unique identity to Sikhs.

Yuvanya Sharma gave insights into the celebrations by telling his audience that this festival is celebrated as ‘Rongali Bihu’ in Assam, ‘Naba Barsha’ in West Bengal and ‘Pooram Vishu’ in Kerala.

After the speech, a Bhangra performance was presented by Danica Kapoor and Tvisha Sharma, dressed in traditional Punjabi attire. The performance was greatly appreciated by the students across the screen who, in turn, couldn’t stop themselves from attempting the Bhangra to the beats of Punjabi folk music!

The interactive session was a wonderful example of teamwork by the students, where each child got an opportunity to share thoughts and showcase talent.

Our students thoroughly enjoyed the session as they were happy to share the customs and rituals associated with Baisakhi with their Vietnamese peers.