Media Release

Mangaluru, Aug 15: Mount Carmel Central School in Mangaluru marked the 78th Independence Day with a grand celebration filled with patriotic zeal, cultural performances, and a deep sense of national pride.

The highlight of the event was the arrival of the chief guest, Col Naresh Bhagasra, who was welcomed with a Guard of Honour by the school band and the senior NCC cadets. The presence of the school representatives, including the joint secretary Sr Josephine Pais, principal Sr Melissa, superior of Vijaymari Convent Sr Asha Prima, administrator Sr Carissima, and PTA vice president Preema D’Costa added solemnity to the occasion.

Following the Guard of Honour, the dignitaries proceeded to the flagpost where Col Naresh Bhagasra hoisted the national flag to the accompaniment of the National Anthem played by the school band. The hoisting of the flag was a moment of pride, symbolising the unity and integrity of the nation. The head girl, Elsha Rose Lewis administered the pledge. Further, the march past led by the head boy, head girl, NCC cadets, the Scouts and Guides and the students of Grade VI to XII was indeed magnificent. Prathama and Deeksha of grade XI compered the ceremony.

The celebration then moved to the school auditorium, where a series of cultural performances by the students of Grade XI and IX C, D and E highlighted the rich heritage and diversity of India. The programme commenced with a prayer service followed by a vibrant welcome dance showcasing the nation’s freedom and cultural richness. Samanvita and Manav Menon accorded aceremonial welcome to the chief guest Col Naresh Bhagasra, joint secretary Sr Josephine Pais, PTA vice president Preema D'Costa and all gathered. The theme of this year’s Independence Day, “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India), was well articulated by Mahendra, Jeanine and Jenica.

A dance drama “Eternal Flame” an assemblage of dances, songs and speeches highlighted the indomitable spirit of India’s freedom struggle, focussed on the pivotal role of education in its historic journey, with the key moments where might of pen ignited the flame of resistance and hope.

Col Naresh Bangasra, in his address, appreciated and applauded the magnificent school band synchronized with the majestic march past. He urged the students to contribute every day, in every way possible towards “Viksit Bharath”. He motivated them to always remember and revere the three words, “Naam, Namak Aur Nishaan.”

He along with principal Sr Melissa felicitated the PE teacher Teena D'Souza on receiving the honour of the third officer of the NCC as well as the Scouts and Guides mentors of the school who completed basic and advanced training. The students who won in various school competitions were also felicitated by the dignitaries. Thunderous applause echoed in the auditorium as principal Sr Melissa announced the winners of the day’s march past competition.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Amartya and Angel D'Souza, expressing gratitude to everyone who made the occasion a celebration, capturing the spirit of freedom and the collective hope for a “Viksit Bharat”. The emcees Samuel D'Souza, Aneeka Sharma, Anissa Valdar, Siyona Pinto and Alister Menezes from Grade IX enchanted the audience with their captivating words throughout the programme.

Click the link to view the programme: