Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 15: The 80th Independence Day of India was celebrated with great patriotic fervour and enthusiasm on August 15 at the Holy Family Church Grounds. The celebration brought together the students and staff of Holy Family English School and St Joseph’s Kannada School in a spirit of unity, patriotism and responsible citizenship.
The programme was presided over by Fr William Menezes, parish priest and joint secretary of both schools was accompanied by Naveen Saldanha, panchayat members; Arthur D’Souza, vice-president of the Church Parish Council; Dafny Lewis, secretary of the Church Parish Council; Elroy Saldanha, coordinator of the 18 Ayogs; Sr Vinitha, headmistress of St Joseph’s Kannada School; and Sr Sabeena, headmistress of Holy Family English School.
The programme commenced after the Holy Mass with a ceremonial guard of honour. The president received the honour from the student platoons through an impressive march past. The students displayed discipline, confidence and a strong sense of patriotism as they marched in perfect formation.
The celebration continued with the hoisting of the national flag by the chief guest, followed by the national anthem. The unfurling of the tricolour marked the solemn significance of the day and reminded everyone of the sacrifices made by the freedom fighters who secured India's independence.
Students from both schools delivered meaningful speeches on the significance of Independence Day, highlighting the value of freedom and the responsibilities that accompany it.
Fr William Menezes, parish priest and joint secretary, also shared his valuable thoughts on the significance of Independence Day. He encouraged the students to grow into responsible, patriotic and compassionate citizens who would uphold the values of unity, peace and service.
Adding colour, enthusiasm and youthful energy to the celebration, students from both schools presented a vibrant patriotic dance. The performance was warmly appreciated by the gathering and beautifully reflected the students’ love for their motherland.
The students of the English Medium School further enriched the celebration with a melodious patriotic song, filling the atmosphere with national pride and reminding everyone of the beauty of India's unity in diversity.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the chief guest, dignitaries, school authorities, teachers, students and all those who contributed to making the celebration meaningful and memorable.
The 80th Independence Day celebration was a fitting tribute to the spirit of freedom and the sacrifices of our national heroes. It also served as a reminder that true freedom comes with responsibility and that every citizen has a role to play in building a united, peaceful and progressive India.