Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 2: St Theresa’s School, Bendur, came alive with colour, creativity, and cultural splendour as it hosted the AICS inter-school cultural competition – TEJAS 2025 on Friday, August 1 at the Msgr Raymond Auditorium. The prestigious event, held under the aegis of the Association of ICSE and CBSE Schools (AICS), witnessed an exuberant convergence of artistic brilliance and youthful enthusiasm from institutions across the region.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Marjorie Texeira, former senior manager at Karnataka Bank and HDFC Bank, and former president of the Parent-Teacher Association of the host school. Radiating warmth and nostalgia, she fondly recalled her association with the school during her time as PTA president and commended its impressive growth over the years. She commended the institution for offering such a splendid platform to students to display their multifaceted talents.
Fr Johnson L Sequeira, principal of Lourdes Central School and treasurer of AICS, served as the guest of honour. His insightful words encouraged students to embrace cultural pursuits as vital to holistic education and personality development.
Throughout the day, the stage became a canvas for diverse expressions of creativity — from compelling theatrical performances and soul-stirring music to graceful dances and eloquent oratory — as students vied with passion and poise.
The valedictory ceremony was honoured by the presence of Dr Ruban S, dean of engineering at St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), as chief guest. In his inspiring address, Dr Ruban urged students to internalise the 5 D’s — Dream, Determination, Dedication, Discipline, and Dignity — as pillars of personal excellence and lifelong success. Bharath S, associate vice president and branch head of Federal Bank, served as guest of honour for the concluding ceremony.
The visionary leadership of Sr Shaila BS, correspondent of the school, and Sr Lourdes BS, the principal, was instrumental in elevating the event to a truly memorable and inspiring celebration of youth and culture.
The seamless execution and impeccable coordination of the event were attributed to the untiring efforts of Jasmine Moreira, Nishvitha, and Thomas, whose commitment and meticulous planning ensured the event’s success.
Special awards under the theme ‘TEJAS – 2025’ were conferred as follows:
1. Masterpiece Props – St Theresa’s School, Bendur
2. Outstanding Stage Presence – Cambridge School
3. Perfect Harmony – SDM English Medium School, Ujire
4. Exquisite Costume – Mount Carmel School
5. Innovative Concept – St Theresa’s School, Bendur
TEJAS award winners:
First place: Alva’s English Medium School, Moodbidri
Second place: Dr Ramanna Shetty Memorial School, Thokur
Third place: St Mary’s School, Kinnigoli
The event culminated in thunderous applause, smiling faces, and a collective sense of achievement. TEJAS 2025 was not merely a competition, but a vibrant celebration of talent, collaboration, and the indomitable spirit of youthful expression.