The I-Day celebrations at CK-CL block, this year, were organised by a rather young brigade. “Though the nation turns 75, the committee felt a young team would symbolise a new India and so our core team comprised six school students studying in Class IX or upwards,” said Kamalika Munshi, who herself is filling up college admission forms now.
The youths supervised the flag hoisting by chief guests and plunged head on into cultural programmes. There were patriotic songs and dances, a sit-and-draw on the themes of independence, the environment and a go-as-you like.
“Freedom fighters like Netaji and Gandhi are widely discussed and frequently portrayed in events like these but the committee drew up a list of lesser-known personalities like Bhikaiji Cama and Prafulla Chaki for residents to dress up as,” said Hridita Banerjee of Class X. “But only one child came dressed as per our list — as Matangini Hazra. Others, citing lack of time, came as Rani Lakshmibai and a policeman!”
There was also a quiz on Incredible India, hosted by Kamalika and Abir Bhattacharya. “We introduced a visual round this time and the audience had fun deciphering Google doodles, Amul ads as well as cryptic film posters,” Kamalika said. For instance, an image of a hockey field and a stopwatch with “70” flashing on it was Chak De! India. A mathematical equation showing an image of a woman being greater than a house, car and money was Deewar.
“We had great fun organising this event and are ready for more responsibilities during the Pujas,” Kamalika smiled.
- More I-Day coverage next week