Media Release
Mangaluru, Aug 15: The 79th Independence Day of India was celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour at St Agnes School CBSE and at St Agnes Preparatory School on August 15. The school campus came alive with vibrant tricolour decorations—flags, balloons, and flowers—creating a festive and patriotic atmosphere. Teachers, students, and parents gathered to honour India’s hard-won freedom and pay tribute to the heroes who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Together as one, the spirit of patriotism filled the air as our kindergarten students too celebrated Independence Day with great enthusiasm and pride.
The celebration began with a warm welcome for our esteemed chief guests, advocate Liston Derrick D’Souza, vice president of the PTA who graced the occasion for the senior students and Awin Eric Cutinha, assistant professor, PhD scholar Sahyadri college graced the occasion for the preparatory school. They were escorted by the school’s disciplined and dynamic marching band. The rhythmic beats of the drums and the synchronised steps of the band set a tone of dignity and pride. Accompanied by Sr Lethisia the KG coordinator.
Following the escort, the chief guest unfurled the national flag, and the National Anthem echoed across the grounds. The sight of the fluttering tricolour against the clear blue sky stirred a deep sense of patriotism among all present. A solemn moment of silence was observed in honour of our brave freedom fighters.
The cultural programme commenced with a soulful prayer, led by students, invoking peace, unity, and progress for the nation. The spirit of patriotism filled the air as our kindergarten not only celebrated to commemorate the nation’s independence but also to instil in our young learners a deep love and respect for their country.
Their events were held in the school auditorium. With their synchronized steps and confident demeanour reflected their excitement and dedication. This was followed by a melodious Prayer Song, invoking blessings for the nation and its people. This was followed by a graceful welcome dance, symbolising India’s rich cultural diversity. The stage then came alive with the sweet voices of our little LKG kids and kindergarteners as they sang the Patriotic Songs. Their innocent yet spirited singing created an atmosphere filled with national pride and unity.
Relisha and Aliza Nafisa delivered a warm welcome speech, highlighting the importance of Independence Day and the role of students in nation-building. The young performers from the kindergarten went on to explain the Significance of Independence Day and the importance of our National Symbols instilling knowledge and pride in the hearts of all present. The audience was visibly touched by the innocence and sincerity with which these messages were delivered.
Jiya Reeva Fernandes and Alvia also presented the significance of the day, reflecting on the journey of India’s freedom struggle and the values of democracy, equality, and justice. To bring the colours of the Indian flag to life, students performed a vibrant tricolour-themed dance. Each hue—saffron, white, and green—was portrayed through expressive movements representing strength, peace, and prosperity.
A powerful mime titled "Emotions speak louder than words" depicted the unity, sacrifices, and struggles of Indians during the freedom movement. The silent yet impactful performance left the audience deeply moved.
Thereafter the students presented a heartwarming skit titled "Little hands, big dreams for India", underscoring the pivotal role of today’s youth in shaping the nation's future. It inspired everyone to contribute through small yet meaningful acts of service and commitment.
A special highlight of the day was the skit titled “Colours of India”, creatively presented by the students of preparatory school. The skit beautifully showcased the significance of our National Flag, explaining the meaning of each colour and the Ashoka Chakra. It further portrayed Unity in Diversity, with students dressed in traditional attire representing different states of India, depicting their culture, dance, and traditions. The skit also paid heartfelt tribute to our Freedom Fighters, portraying their sacrifices and unwavering determination to secure the nation’s freedom.
A fusion dance performance blending classical and contemporary styles followed, representing India’s rooted yet evolving cultural identity. This was succeeded by a melodious patriotic song, “Tiranga”, sung by the students. The song resonated with pride, unity, and love for the nation.
The celebration concluded with a lively patriotic dance, performed by the KG Students with vibrant energy and joy. The colourful costumes, rhythmic movements, and smiling faces of the children added to the charm of the performance.
At the KG auditorium the chief guest, Awin Eric Cutinha, addressed the gathering with an inspiring speech. The words of encouragement and motivation emphasized the role of the younger generation in shaping a better future for the country. The chief guest’s message resonated deeply with the students, parents, and teachers alike.
The chief guest, Liston Derrick D’Souza, addressed the gathering with an inspiring speech, applauding the students’ performances and emphasising that freedom is both a gift and a responsibility. He urged students to uphold truth, work hard, respect elders, maintain cleanliness, show kindness, follow rules, and practise discipline. Expressing gratitude, he thanked principal Sr Maria Sarika for giving him the opportunity to be part of the celebration, and reminded the audience that, as the future of India, their actions would shape the nation’s brighter tomorrow.
The programme was smoothly conducted by comperes Thanishka K, Ridhima Ranjith, Snehal, Ridhi Shetty, and Nirali N Poojary. The vote of thanks was delivered by Ananya Sujith Rao and Rachael Simona D’Souza, expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the event.
The celebration was a collaborative effort by students of preparatory school and grades 3, 6, and 9, along with their dedicated facilitators. It concluded with the distribution of sweets among students, staff and parents leaving everyone with a renewed sense of patriotism and a motivation to contribute towards a better, brighter India.