Republic Day celebrations - the Primary section

LITTLE JOSEPHITES CELEBRATE REPUBLIC DAY WITH JOY, GRATITUDE AND PRIDE!

-Ms. Sunita D’Souza

St. Joseph’s High School,

Wadala

24^th Jan 2014

On 24th Jan., at 9 a.m., the students from the Pre-Primary and the Primary Sections assembled in the school hall to celebrate the 64th Republic Day of India! The backdrop held the words 64th Republic Day with beautiful cut-outs of butterflies depicting the colours of the Indian flag - saffron, white and green. The two comperes warmly welcomed the Chief Guest, Rev. Fr. Bernard Fernandes (Principal) and Mrs. Matilda Fernandes (Headteacher of the Primary Section) in the school hall. They wished everyone a "Happy Republic Day" at the very outset and highlighted the importance of Republic Day singling out the sacrifice of our brave leaders.  The word 'Republic' was elucidated - a government for the people, of the people and by the people, rejoicing in the birth of India as a sovereign, secular, democratic republic.

The students of Std. I dressed in colourful clothes, representing the different states of India, showcased the vast diversity and the unique beauty of the diverse culture of India. The poem 'Happy Republic Day' was then recited by Std. II students conveying their happiness and appreciation at the birth of our Republic on 26th January, 1950. Dressed in kurtas with the colours of the Indian flag, the students of Std. III melodiously sang the song, 'Ayo Bachho Tumhe Dikhaye' reiterating their patriotic fervour with the words 'Vande Mataram'. There was a slide presentation depicting different places in India and the struggle leading to the birth of our Republic Day. 

The power-point presentation conducted by the students of Std. IV highlighted the different aspects associated with the Republic Day - the architect of our Constitution, the first President, Prime Minister, Home Minister, the history of Republic Day, celebration of Republic Day at the Red Fort in New Delhi, awards given to children for bravery, parades by the army, navy and the air force, the Indian flag coloured petals reverently released from the helicopters with displays of the air force, etc…

Fr. Principal congratulated the students and the teachers for the fantastic presentation, commending them for the dissemination of a lot of relevant information about Republic Day.  He stated that the message 'Unity In Diversity' expressed the sentiments of every Indian. There was a pleasant surprise for the birthday girl, Mrs. Sharmila, when the entire assembly joined in singing the Happy Birthday song for her.  The programme drew to a close rekindling the spirit of patriotism in everyone; their hearts filled with joy, gratitude and pride for the gift of democracy. Proud to be an Indian! Jai Hind!