Students join hands to create, compete, cheer

Conscious and creative

Birla Divya Jyoti School recently hosted the eighth edition of Manthan, a three-day conclave on social sciences, climate change and a range of literary activities from October 21 to 23.

The event was designed to encourage students from Classes IX to XII to engage with contemporary issues through many activities. Curated by educator Parnab Mukherjee, Manthan was a platform for a meaningful dialogue beyond the competition. Documentary film-maker Sahaj Umang Singh Bhatia was the guest judge for the event, which saw participation from 14 schools across Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand and Sikkim.

The opening day’s highlight was Quorum, the debate competition, where students voiced their opinions on fundamental rights and duties. Tanistha Lama, a Class XI student from the host school, was adjudged the Best Speaker in the preliminary round.

The host school also secured the Best Research Delegation trophy.

Dance took on a unique dimension in Torque, where participants combined movement with dialogue, choreographing performances based on the Preamble to the Constitution of India or fundamental rights.

Creativity flowed in the writing event Politico Politico, where participants composed 19-line pieces blending dialogues and monologues. The Graffiti contest added a vibrant touch, with the host school securing the second position. The students used marker pens.

Running alongside these events was a social science exhibition, with participants from Classes II to XII showcasing models and charts on national issues. A special segment of the exhibition celebrated two decades of the Right to Information Act, adding a historical perspective to the discussions.

Reflecting on the event’s success, principal Shweta Tiwari said: “The 2024 Manthan conclave united 14 schools across four states, sparking discussions on literature, social sciences and climate change. It encouraged innovation and dialogue among young minds. This event celebrated students’ intellectual and artistic excellence while showcasing their commitment to tackling contemporary global challenges.”

Ode to unsung heroes

Students of Classes III to V leaned over their computers, engrossed in designing 10-page e-books on Canva. Their task was to tell the story of an unsung hero.

This creative challenge was part of Shri Shikshayatan School's two-day junior literary fest, Words on Wings (WOW), held on November29 and 30.

The theme, Under the Spotlight, paid homage to the unsung heroes who quietly shape society. Eleven city schools, including B.D.M International, Birla High School, Birla Bharati, Mahadevi Birla World Academy and South Point School, took part, showcasing students’ creativity, teamwork and literary skills. Along with creating e-books, participants also designed coasters, amongother activities.

The second day featured Madhurima Vidyarthi, author of The School for Bad Girls, Munni Monster and My Grandmother’s Masterpiece, as the chief guest. She was joined by educator Manjusree Chandrasekher and animation professional Arimitra Mondal as judges. The day began with speeches by V.K. Agrawal, secretary general and CEO of Shikshayatan Foundation, and principal Sangeeta Tandon, setting the stage for the activities ahead.

Vidyarthi’s session was the highlight of the day. She shared insights into her books and the writing process, captivating the young audience and inspiring them to explore their creative potential.

The fest concluded with an award ceremony recognising outstanding performances across various categories. The Literary Luminary award went to The Heritage School and B.D.M International, while the Literary Laureate award was won by Swarnim International and the host school. South Point High School and South City International were crowned Lexicon Grandmaster. The Nascent Ink award went to The BSS School and Birla Bharati, Tech Canvas to Birla High School and Mahadevi Birla World Academy, and United Voices to the Sonarpur and Newtown branches of The Narayana Schools.

Headmistress Poushali Mukherjee reflected on the significance of the fest, saying: “The fest was a celebration of literature. In today’s world, where children are losing focus due to social media, it is essential to rebuild their concentration. Such events foster collaboration and mutual appreciation, encouraging imagination and creativity. That’s what our fest was all about.”

Equal Music

Over 600 students of Children’s Foundation School (CFS) showcased their talents at Melange '24, the annual concert held at Kala Mandir on November 29.

Students from Nursery to Class XII took part in the production, blending music, dance, recitation and drama.

Rehearsing since August during zero periods to avoid disrupting classes, the students delivered an enthralling performance. Headmistress Mohor Dey highlighted their dedication.

The event was attended by Basanti Biswas, principal of Calcutta Girls’ High School, as the chief guest, and Sarmistha Sen, principal of Young Horizons School, as the guest of honour.

Highlights included Nursery to Class II’s medley of nursery rhymes, Classes III to V’s rendition of Budhhu Bhutum from Thakumar Jhuli, and a humorous play, A Matter of Redress, by Classes IX to XI. Forty students from Classes VI to XII earned applause for their choral recitation of the Hindi poem Rashmi Rathi.

Global dances, including Flamenco from Spain and Samba from Brazil, along with martial arts performances, added flair to the event.

“In a world torn with strife, our children showed that peaceful coexistence of diverse cultures ought to be our aim," said Sangeeta Mukerji of the CFS trust.

Principal Rumela Roy praised the collective effort, saying: “Melange is a result of the hard work and cooperation of students and teachers alike. With almost 75 per cent of the school participating, it showcased our commitment to promoting all, not just our brightest talents.”

Karate kid

Thirteen-year-old Devansh Basu, a Class VIII student of Delhi Public School, Newtown, brought glory to his school and country by clinching a bronze medal in the Under-14 category at the 11th Commonwealth Karate Championship held in Durban, South Africa, on December 1.

A brown-belt holder, Devansh competed in the Above 55kg Kumite category, facing nine formidable opponents. "I was both nervous and excited before the competition. It was my toughest fight till date," said Devansh, who has been training in karate since the age of six under HansiPremjit Sen.

Devansh is no stranger to accolades, having won various national tournaments. A fan of the Kungfu Panda series and the OTT show Cobra Kai, he dreams of participating in the World Karate Championship someday. Expanding his martial arts repertoire, he is also learning Hapkido, the Korean martial art.

"Karate has given me confidence. The best part about this championship was the chance to meet so many contestants my age from across the globe. I made new friends and bonded over football with them. Travelling to South Africa for the first time was the best experience ever," said Devansh, who is also an avid reader and budding writer.

Principal Sonali Sen lauded his achievement, saying: "We are extremely proud of our student, Devansh Basu. Winning the bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games in Durban, South Africa, is an honour for the country as well. Wishing him more success in the coming years."

Masked glory

National Gems Higher Secondary School welcomed Diwali with a special assembly and a surprise for students — a performance by their teachers, presented as a pre-Children's Day treat.

The open-air assembly, held in two sessions on October 30, involved students from Classes V to XII, who awaited the unexpected treat from their mentors.

The programme began with a tribute to the festival of lights, celebrating its essence of triumph and unity. The teachers then surprised everyone with a graceful dance performance to the Rabindrasangeet, Heemer Raate Oi Gaganer.

The stage was soon taken over by students, who kept the festive spirit alive with recitations and songs. Mourjo Sen of Class VIII recited Kazi Nazrul Islam's Amar Kalo Meye, while classmate Debadrita Das performed the soulful Jaya Jaya Jag Janani Devi.

The highlight was a captivating Chhou dance performance, the traditional masked dance of Purulia, symbolising the victory of good over evil. The performers, Soumanti Khatua and Saranya Dey of Class IX, along with Maitri Dey of Class VIII, received thunderous applause for their spirited act.

"Diwali celebrates light over darkness, unity over division, and shakti over ashubh. It’s an important festival, and we are happy to welcome it with this special programme. The teachers wanted to surprise the children with a pre-Children's Day gift, and they were successful too," said principal Keya Sinha.

Music and magic

Modi Public School celebrated Children's Day with music, magic and fun for students from Kindergarten to Class XII.

The celebration began with a tribute to Jawaharlal Nehru on his birth anniversary. The teachers then delighted the students with an instrumental performance, playing a medley on the flute, bass guitar, ukulele, tablaand synthesizer, creating aharmonious treat for the young audience.

Pune-based magician Sadruddin Badruddin, the chief guest, wowed the students with his disappearing acts, card tricks and ring illusions. His performance was interspersed with humour. Academic director Jayanta Pal said: “An innocent smile adds to the beauty of the world. This day will forever be etched in our memories.” He also encouraged students to strive for a brighter future.