"I felt a renewed sense of optimism" ❤️

A Morning of Inspiration at St. Christopher’s Academy

Republic Day Festivities | A Report

The thoughtfully-designed programme sheet 

Well, there is this unique energy that surrounds a school campus during a celebration – what with a buzz of anticipation, a bevy of enthusiastic students walking up and down rehearsing their parts in their respective performances, and teachers for their part, doing the last-minute preparations, with excitement, ensuring that everything is in place, and praying that the programme comes out well.

And this morning, I had the distinct honour of experiencing that energy firsthand as the Chief Guest at St. Christopher’s Academy in Vepery for their flag-hoisting ceremony. It was a day filled with vibrant performances, thoughtful reflections, and a powerful reminder of the immense potential within our youth – the future pillars of our nation.

Arriving at the academy, at 7.40 am, I was happy to watch the beehive of activities that were going on in the Campus, right from the casting of the rangoli to the arrangement of the flowers.

The atmosphere was already electric. It was heartening to see so many parents turn up in large numbers to witness the festivities.

I was delighted to begin the day meeting with the School’s Headmistress, the Correspondent, and the dedicated faculty members. Their passion for shaping young minds was evident from our first interaction, setting a wonderful tone for the events to follow. I was also glad to note their MCC connections.

Since it has been raining incessantly for the past few days in a row, the management was a wee bit worried about conducting the festivities in the open. However, today, much to our relief, the sun came out of his hiding, and shone his gentle rays on us all.

The ceremony itself was so beautifully organised! The school choir was truly exceptional. They took us on a melodious journey, beginning with a soul-stirring rendition of the Thamizh Thai Vaalthu and culminating in a powerful collective singing of the National Anthem.

But the talent didn’t stop there. The students put up a host of engaging performances that thoroughly regaled the audience. Watching their confidence and skill on stage was a genuine treat.

The management also took time to recognise and to acknowledge their students’ achievement. It was a joy to distribute prizes to the winners of various competitions held the previous day.

Students came along with their parents to receive their prizes. It felt so cute to see the younger brother tailgating his prize-winning elder brother, when the latter was called to collect his prize. 😊

Given the blessed opportunity to address these bright young minds, I kept my speech short but focused on a message I believe is crucial for navigating academic life and beyond. I spoke to the students about three essential qualities to cultivate in their school life.

After the programme, we had coffee with the officials, and then it was time for me to bid adieu to St. Christopher’s.

Well, on leaving the salubrious campus at St. Christopher’s Academy today, I felt a renewed sense of optimism. When you see a school that values not just academic results, but also cultural roots, artistic expression, and character development, you know the future is in safe hands.

A big thank you to the management - the cordial headmistress, and the vibrant correspondent, the staff, parents, and, most importantly, the wonderful students of St. Christopher’s for having me.

Keep shining!

Jai Hind!