Republic Day 2016

By Ayushi Mehta and Reshma Varma, Junior Reporters Light House

As the Indians sing the national anthem with pride and enthusiasm, the patriotism fills the atmosphere and echoes 4000 miles and reaches the hearts of 10000 Students of The Indian High School, Dubai.

The event which took place on January 26th 2016 at The Indian High School was graced with the presence of the Honorable Council General of India Mr. Anurag Bhushan and the Guest of Honor Padma Shri Virendra Sehwag. After illuminating the school by lighting the ceremonial lamp, Mr. Bhushan welcomed the spectators to the event with his uplifting words and read the President’s address to the nation after which he hoisted the National Flag.

The parade marched to the spirited tunes played by the talented students of the Brass Band. Then the tricolored balloons were released representing the soaring heights of success our country has achieved, thus marking the start of a grand event. The spirit of each Indian increased as the program progressed.

The first act was about the unity in diversity in our motherland performed by the 700 girls of 5th and 6th grade. It portrayed the religions of India and the brotherhood among them. They also showcased the strong bond between our motherland India and the land that supported us and brought us to this stage of success, U.A.E.

Spiritual living and healthy wellbeing was encouraged by the energetic boys of the 7th and 8th section. They represented the origin of India by performing the Surya Namaskar. Emotions of excitement filled the atmosphere, when the Legendary Sehwag himself waved the tricolored flag with pride.

The boys of the 3rd and 4th graders won the hearts of the spectators as they portrayed the Indian struggle for Independence by enacting the major historical movements which led to India’s success today. This amazing performance was aptly named ‘Mangal to Mangalyan’. This act included the portrayal of events like the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, the Quit India Movement to the initiation of The Make in India movement and creation of the Mangalyan (Mars Orbiter).

This magnificent event awed the audience and pulled out the real Indian spirit thus making it a huge success. The guests also enjoyed various stalls organized and run by IHS students, which was an effort to raise money for charity. The stalls included sales of a variety of books, accessories and mouth watering snacks.

“Being in a foreign country I am so proud of my children and all the students of IHS for staying connected to their origin and respecting its culture and heritage. Thank you IHS for making this possible” said one of the parents who enjoyed the show.

Annette Johnson of grade 10 expressed “I am so proud of my younger brother for confidently participating in such a massive event. I am also proud to say I am a part of the IHS family and congratulations to all who have made this event a success.”

When asked how it felt while hosting this event, Shlok Misra said “I see this as a golden opportunity. It was always my dream to get involved in an event of such a stature in such an important manner. It has been a great learning experience as well. It has not only improved my speaking skills as an individual, but has revealed to me the great efforts the teachers, supervisors and chachas take for such an event”.

This event made each and every student, teacher and parent proud to be Indian and look forward to seeing a bigger, brighter and better Republic Day Celebration in The Indian High School in the coming years.

Jai Hind!