by Raksha Rosario for BIS Mumbai

The senior KG children at Dominic Savio Kindergarten, Nerul, celebrated their Cultural Day with great enthusiasm and vibrant performances on October 19, 2024. The school auditorium was transformed into a lively arena of tradition and festivity as the young students showcased their talents, embracing cultural diversity with pride. The event was graced by the presence of Fr Savio Silveira, the Provincial of the Salesian Province of Mumbai, along with Fr Barnabe D’Souza, the Rector, other Fathers of the management, Principal Mrs Kalyani Chaudhary, and the headmistress and supervisors. Parents and teachers also attended, making the occasion a joyous celebration.

The program began with a welcome speech by the senior KG students, who greeted the dignitaries, guests, and parents. They highlighted the significance of Cultural Day, stressing the importance of embracing cultural values and encouraging everyone to enjoy the day’s festivities. The children’s enthusiasm and poise set the tone for a memorable event.

Following the welcome speech, the students performed a welcome song. Dressed in colorful cultural costumes, they invited the audience to join the celebration, receiving loud applause from the gathering. The children then transitioned into a solemn action prayer song, using graceful movements and gestures that created a reflective atmosphere. The performance showcased their sense of devotion and innocence, captivating the audience with their sincerity.

The celebration included a special felicitation ceremony, where the senior KG students honored the guests by presenting saplings as a token of appreciation. Provincial Fr Savio Silveira addressed the gathering, commending the school’s efforts in organizing such a meaningful event. He praised the school for nurturing cultural awareness among young children and encouraged the students to take pride in their diverse heritage.

The auditorium was soon filled with energy as the children performed a lively ring dance, captivating the audience with their vibrant costumes and choreography. The highlight of the event was a skit centered on the theme of "Unity in Diversity," portraying India’s rich cultural heritage. The skit emphasized the importance of respecting different cultures and living together in harmony, resonating deeply with both students and parents. The students concluded the performance with a rendition of "Saare Jahaan Se Achaa," stirring a sense of patriotism among the audience.

Principal Mrs Kalyani Chaudhary took the stage following the performances to express her pride in the children’s efforts. She commended the collaboration between students, teachers, and parents in making the event a success. She emphasized the importance of cultural education in shaping young minds and thanked everyone involved in organizing the day’s celebrations.

The event concluded with a thank-you song by the Senior KG students. Their melody and genuine expressions left a lasting impression on everyone present, marking the end of a beautiful celebration.

Parents were full of praise for the efforts put in by the students and teachers. One parent remarked, "It’s amazing to see how well the children have embraced their roles and learned about different cultures." Another parent added, "It was a great way to nurture young talents and build confidence for future achievements."