by Valerie Mascarenhas & Father Brian Moras for BISMumbai

Determined to celebrate the 74^th Independence Day of India meaningfully and undaunted by the COVID-19 lockdown, St. Dominic Savio High School Andheri had a virtual celebration with participation from the Kindergarten to Class X on 15 August 2020.

The day began at 7:30am with the feast day Eucharistic celebration live streamed on the school's YouTube channel, followed by the hoisting of the flag in the presence of the management and a few staff. At 9 am, all the students joined their respective Google Classroom where they solemnly sang the National Anthem and recited the pledge. A celebration of freedom can never be complete without giving the Savions an understanding of its importance and the role they play. In his speech, Rector and Manager Father Brian Moras spoke about service to the nation, especially in these trying times. He highlighted the works of charity done by the Past Pupil’s Unit. He also conveyed his wishes on the occasion of the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The Rector’s address was followed by a variety of Independence Day related activities. The secondary section had their students give speeches in English, Marathi and Hindi, with student discussions based on thought provoking videos that were screened and a fun Independence Day action game. Students even compered the event in some of the classes. In the primary, young Savions dressed in traditional outfits took to colouring, quiz and craft activities and the pre-primary had a sing-along with a pledge for a clean India.

The lockdown might have restricted physical freedom, but blessed with freedom of thought and creativity, the Savions surmounted this challenge and went on to have a memorable celebration of our great country’s 74^th Independence Day.