Media Release

Moodbidri, Jul 25: Carmel School celebrated Vanamahotsava on July 22 with great enthusiasm marking it as an important day to foster environmental awareness among students. Initiated as a national activity in 1950 by Kaniyalal Maniklal Munshi, the then minister for food and agriculture, Vanamahotsava aims to encourage tree planting and forest conservation.

The celebration provided an excellent opportunity to instill the values of social responsibility in grade IV to VIII students emphasising their role in safeguarding trees and forest cover through various activities students learned about the importance of a green environment and their contribution to a sustainable future. This event not only enhanced the school's green initiatives but also sensitised students to their critical role in environmental conservation.

The programme began with an invocation for God's blessings through a heartfelt prayer service and a captivating prayer dance setting a serene and reverent tone for the day's activities.

Highlighting the theme "Plant More Trees" a powerful mime show was performed by the students. The poignant theme was beautifully portrayed through their choice of music, actions, and movements leaving a lasting impression on the audience. Additionally, a theme dance performance brought cheerful smiles to everyone’s faces underscoring the joy of contributing to a greener planet.

The event was graced by the esteemed presence of the chief guest, Ananda, deputy range forest officer of Moodbidri. He was warmly welcomed by Sr Maria Gracilda A.C., the principal of Carmel School with the symbolic gesture of presenting a potted sapling. In his address Ananda emphasised the significance of Vanamahotsava and encouraged students to actively participate in tree planting activities. His motivational words resonated deeply with everyone present inspiring a renewed commitment to environmental stewardship.

As a highlight of the ceremony, Ananda and Sr Maria Gracilda A C planted a sapling symbolising the school’s dedication to promoting vanamahotsava and environmental conservation. Students enthusiastically followed suit exchanging saplings with their friends under the motto "Each One Plant One" reinforcing the collective responsibility towards nurturing nature.

The chief guest generously contributed 50 saplings to the children, significantly enhancing the vanamahotsava celebration and promoting the importance of nurturing nature.

The programme was compered by Jerwin James Mendonca and Mischelle Clara D’Souza. Idanth Shetty and Hemanth Gowda H V beautifully welcomed the gathering. Significance of the day was highlighted by Meldric Lewis and Shannen Glen D’Souza and Nathan D’Souza delivered the vote of thanks.

The celebration filled teachers and students with immense gratitude for the marvels of creation spreading joy and a sense of purpose throughout the school. Carmel School’s Vanamahotsava celebration was not just an event but a heartfelt initiative to instill a lifelong love for nature and a commitment to protecting our planet.