The Annual Day celebration of Salwan Junior School, Naraina, unfolded as a vibrant and thought-provoking spectacle at the prestigious Air Force Auditorium, New Delhi, on 23rd December 2024. Themed “Synergy – A Call to Rise Up for Peace,” this year’s event reflected the school’s commitment to instilling universal values in students, resonating with the Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16): Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.
The day commenced with the arrival of distinguished guests, parents, and dignitaries. The Chief Guest for the occasion, Padma Shri Prof. (Dr.) Mahesh Verma, Vice-Chancellor of Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, and the Guest of Honour, Shri Samarth Pathak, a renowned public advocacy and communication specialist, were warmly welcomed. The Chairman of Salwan Education Trust, Shri Sushil Dutt Salwan, graced the event with his inspiring presence, alongside Managing Committee members and esteemed principals of sister schools.
Following a ceremonial high tea, the program officially began with a warm welcome by the emcees, who set the tone for the day by introducing the theme and its alignment with the values of peace, harmony, and unity. The lamp-lighting ceremony symbolized the ignition of wisdom and knowledge, invoking a sense of enlightenment among the audience. The school choir performed a soulful Ganesh Vandana, invoking the blessings of Lord Ganesha for the smooth progression of the event.
The Annual Report, presented by Head Boy Astitva Kataria and Head Girl Kaira Dhawan, highlighted the school’s achievements across academics, sports, cultural activities, and community outreach programs. It reflected the Salwan Education Trust’s vision of nurturing empowered citizens who exemplify the motto “Service Before Self.” Achievements in national-level competitions, cultural milestones, and participation in global initiatives like RiseUp4Peace were applauded by the gathering.
The centerpiece of the day was the cultural extravaganza, Synergy – A Call to Rise Up for Peace. This captivating medley of music, dance, and drama featured 100% participation from Classes II to V. The narrative revolved around pressing issues like cyberbullying, environmental degradation, and societal conflicts, portrayed through engaging dialogues and emotive performances. The drama, Peace in Our Hands, brought to life the struggles and triumphs of individuals striving for harmony, as young actors like Kaira Dhawan (as Grandma) and Astitva Kataria (as Anuj) delivered remarkable performances. The script, interwoven with humor, wisdom, and poignant moments, left the audience deeply moved.
Interspersed with vibrant dances and melodious songs, the program celebrated global unity and peace. Performances such as the classical Ganesh Stuti, the soulful Itni Shakti Humein Dena Data, and the energetic Chale Chalo from Lagaan demonstrated the immense talent of the students. The grand finale, featuring the song All Is Well, was a lively and optimistic conclusion, reminding everyone of the importance of resilience and unity.
The event was a platform to honor the late Shri Shiv Dutt Salwan, Chairman Emeritus of Salwan Education Trust. A tribute was paid to his enduring legacy as a visionary and an ambassador of education and service. His philosophy of holistic education and his commitment to social upliftment were acknowledged with deep reverence.
The Chief Guest, Prof. (Dr.) Mahesh Verma, addressed the audience, commending the school’s efforts to integrate values-based education with academic excellence. He emphasized the importance of fostering a generation of compassionate and socially responsible citizens. The Guest of Honour, Shri Samarth Pathak, shared insights on global peace initiatives and encouraged students to take small but meaningful steps toward creating a harmonious world.
Parents played a crucial role in making the day a success. Their unwavering support was acknowledged by the emcees, who expressed gratitude for their trust and cooperation throughout the year. The Vote of Thanks, delivered by a parent representative, highlighted the collaborative spirit that defines the Salwan school community.
The program concluded with the National Anthem, filling the auditorium with a sense of pride and unity. Students were handed over to their parents in an organized manner, ensuring a smooth dispersal.
The 2024 Annual Day of Salwan Junior School was a testament to the power of synergy. It showcased not only the immense talent of its students but also the school’s dedication to nurturing global citizens who value peace, justice, and inclusion. The event inspired everyone present to reflect on their role in creating a better world, reinforcing the belief that with unity and commitment, all challenges can be overcome.
