Republic Day and Basant Panchmi celebrations across the classes

“Democracy is not merely a form of government. It is primarily a mode of associated living, of conjoint communicated experience. It is essentially an attitude of respect and reverence towards fellow men.” – B R Ambedkar

Republic Day marks the adoption of India's constitution and the country's transition to a republic on January 26, 1950. This year also, our 74th Republic Day was observed in all its solemnity and grandeur by the students of The Indian School-Second Shift. A plethora of activities was organised to infuse the spirit of unity, brotherhood and patriotism among the young students.

The tiny tots of Pre school and Pre primary actively participated in various creative activities, such as the "Kitchenette Activity," wherein they prepared a tricolour flag using different fruit and relished it with their friends. They also enjoyed making handprints of the Indian flag as well as innovative wall hangings. Further, the students sang patriotic songs such as  " Nanha munna rahi hu" and " Vande Mataram" accompanied by actions.

The students of classes 1 and 2 made tricolour badges using origami sheets. Old newspapers were recycled and coloured to make the three layers- saffron, white and green.

The students took pride in wearing their badges as they sang the most loved patriotic song ‘Saare Jahaan Se Acha, Hindustan Hamara’ along with their peers. The children were told about the significance of each colour of our national flag.

Class 3 crafted tri colour flowers using upcycled material enumerating the importance of the 3 R's. They made colourful paintings illustrating the parade and the famous overhead jets sprinkling flower petals to mark the celebration. 

Likewise, classes 4 and 5 students engaged in a discussion about Republic Day and ways to become responsible future citizens of the country. Fundamental Rights and Duties were also discussed with the students. The children then made tricolour kites, butterflies, lotuses and posters.

Class 6 celebrated the day by penning self-composed poems while contemplating upon the relevance of the constitution and sharing the heroic stories of our soldiers.

The students of class 7 participated in various activities like group discussions, singing, poster making and slogan writing on the theme “Jan Bhagidari (participation of the common people). The students of classes 8 and 9 made posters depicting the essence of Republic Day

A special assembly by the students of classes 3 to 5 was held on 25 January 2023 to mark the significance of Basant Panchami which also coincided with Republic Day this year. Basant Panchami was ushered with an invocation to  Goddess Saraswati, the Goddess of Learning.

As part of the activity for the day, the tiny tots of Pre Primary depicted their artistic skills by painting flowers using different painting skills like cotton dabbing and thumb painting. The significance of Basant Panchami was also explained to the students across the classes. Its association with the colour yellow, the blooming of mustard flowers, and the change of seasons was described.

The assembly commenced with Saatwik and Fatimah of class 4 welcoming the audience and explaining the importance of the Indian constitution and how it came into force. The essence of the occasion was further conveyed by Modabera of class 5 who spoke about its significance and the celebrations associated with it. She reminded her peers in the audience about the sacrifices made to build the nation.

The melodious choir presented the patriotic song “Ae Watan, Mere Watan”, a heartfelt tribute to our motherland. The rhythmic beats reverberated with feelings of patriotism and eternal love for our motherland.

The students of class 3 dressed as freedom fighters and spoke inspirational lines and quotes of these great pioneers: Reyansh as Dr B.R. Ambedkar; Ridhaan as Ata Bihari Vajpayee; Arihant as Swami Vivekananda; Mitansh as Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru and Bal Krishnan as Bal Gangadhar Tilak.

The students of classes 4 and 5 gave a presentation on the Fundamental Rights and Duties of the citizens of India.  A skit by the students of class 4 based on Dr B.R. Ambedkar’s childhood depicted incidents in his life which firmed his resolve to fight against injustice.

The assembly concluded with the School song followed by an address by Head Mistress, Ms Sheeja Menon reiterating the values that are associated with Republic Day. She heartily appreciated the participants for putting together a meaningful show.