Patriotism’ according to the Oxford English Dictionary is the ‘love for one’s country and the willingness to defend it.’ The students of St Stanislaus International, displayed exceptional patriotism during the Inter-Religious and the Independence Day Celebration which was held on Monday, 14th August, 2023.
Tr Sharon began the event by welcoming the management, the Jesuit Community, staff, students and parents which was followed by a serene Aarti service. After that the prayer service which followed the Aarti was read out with intentions in different languages to bring about the diversity of the nation.
Fr Luke Rodrigues our School Manager, Sir Montwyn D’costa our Principal, Tr Petula Lobo our Vice Principal, Mrs Zelia Fernandes VP of the PTA along with Master Jordan Rodrigues our Head Captain and Ms Arshiya Baig our Grade 8 student were invited to light the Samai which then marked the official beginning of the event.
A melodious bhajan was then sung by our very talented students who played classical instruments which was the perfect accompaniment to the bhajan. This was then followed by a prayer dance by the primary students who perfectly depicted religious harmony along with the spirit of Independence.
The secondary students, with their sheer will, strength and passion presented a street play which illustrated the problems that our country faces and also some solutions to the same. It was an exceptional presentation of skill and commitment which the students showcased superbly.
The cherry on the cake was the patriotic dance whereby the secondary students performed magically on stage to the tunes of a very famous patriotic song.
The program was then beautifully tied together with the singing of the National Anthem.
Some of our parents, Mrs Gargi Sarkar, Mrs Cynthia Miranda and Mrs Raina Shriwardhankar spoke about what their religion teaches about respect for all and being a responsible citizen of the country. They emphasized how their own religion along with its values and beliefs are used to bring about the betterment of society and the people in it.
The event concluded with our Principal Sir Montwyn thanking everyone and letting us know of the importance of religious tolerance and the need for a country that ensures peace, harmony and tolerance for its citizens.
It was indeed a very meaningful event that was enjoyed by all.
