Media Release
Mangaluru, Jul 4: In a moving celebration that blended environmental awareness with heartfelt homage to motherhood, Mount Carmel Central School, observed Vanamahotsava Day with elegance, reverence, and a vibrant expression of student creativity. Held on July 4 in the school auditorium, the event was themed ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, a soulful tribute to both Mother Nature and the nurturing spirit of mothers.
Meticulously curated by the students of grade IX A and B, the programme was a harmonious blend of culture, education, and environmental advocacy. The morning unfolded under the eloquent guidance of comperes Josyl Fernandes and Aloma Lobo, whose confident anchoring lent grace and rhythm to the proceedings.
The celebration commenced with a solemn interfaith prayer service, thanking God for Earth’s abundant gifts, followed by a graceful welcome dance, an artistic homage to the splendour of the natural world. Vanshika and Elric D’Silva extended a warm welcome to all present and introduced the chief guest, Prashanth Kumar Pai, assistant conservator of Forests, Social Forestry, Zilla Panchayath, Mangaluru and director of Pilikula Biological Park. He was honoured with the symbolic gift of a flower sapling by Sr Carissima, the administrator of the school, a poignant gesture underscoring the school’s deep-rooted commitment to ecological preservation.
The Significance of Vanamahotsava was eloquently articulated by students Pavani N K, Brahmi Shetty and Tisha Rai, who highlighted the urgency of environmental stewardship and paid tribute to the legacy of India’s ecological crusaders. Their reflections served as the perfect prelude to a series of stirring cultural presentations. A thought-provoking mime titled ‘Don’t Trade Trees for Towers’ powerfully conveyed the perils of deforestation and unchecked urbanisation. This was followed by a melodious group song, “Chalo milke ek ped tum lagao, and an evocative call to collective action in support of afforestation. A jubilant celebration dance concluded the cultural segment, capturing the vitality and joy of nurturing a greener tomorrow.
The chief guest in his inspiring address, urged students to become conscientious stewards of the Earth. “Nature is all around us, it is our duty to protect it. Save trees, save water, and avoid plastic. Let us all plant trees and preserve this beautiful planet,” he stated, encouraging the young audience to embrace sustainable living and inspire change in their communities.
Principal Sr Melissa, in her address, lauded the students and their mentors for their impeccable coordination and creativity. Echoing the government’s nationwide initiative ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, she remarked, “Trees are the lungs of our Earth, planting a tree in your mother’s name is a gesture of love, affection and lasting impact.” She encouraged the students to plant a sapling at home with their mothers, capture the moment, and share their green initiative on the government website and the school, a symbolic act reinforcing the personal responsibility each individual holds toward the planet.
The celebration also marked a significant academic milestone with the release of the school magazine 2024–25, ‘Carmel Syndeo’. The unveiling, led by the chief guest along with dignitaries reflected the vibrant intellectual and artistic achievements of the MCCS family.
The event concluded with a gracious vote of thanks by Sushree Deepanwitha Rath, who acknowledged the collective effort of students, faculty, and guests in making the day truly memorable.
After the formal celebration, the chief guest along with representatives of the staff and students planted a few saplings in and around the school campus symbolising the school’s commitment to a greener future and care for the Mother Earth.
As the message ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ resounded in the hearts of all, the celebration became a living testament that every tree planted is a legacy of love, hope and enduring care.
Kindly click on the link for the glimpses of the celebration.