By BIS Correspondents for BIS Mumbai

August 15, 2026 marked India’s 80th Independence Day with India completing 79 years of independence since 1947. The schools and institutions in the province celebrated this day with patriotic spirit and fervor creatively imbibing within the young a sense of pride and responsibility towards India. Here’s a look at how the province celebrated Independence Day.

Dominic Savio Kindergarten, Nerul celebrated Desh Bhakti Day on August 14, 2026 as part of a patriotic initiative that commenced on August 3, 2026. The programme aimed to foster patriotism, national pride, cultural awareness and appreciation of India’s unity in diversity among young learners through meaningful and age-appropriate activities. The concluding programme on August 14 saw the tiny tots dressed in attire symbolic of India’s freedom fighters and states, giving short speeches with confidence. Colourful tricolour-themed snacks, added a delightful touch to the celebration.

Don Bosco Senior Secondary School, Seawoods, celebrated the 80th Independence Day with immense pride, patriotism, and enthusiasm under the theme "Wings of Freedom, Wings of Progress."  The grand event commenced with the solemn Flag Hoisting ceremony led by Honourable Chief Guest Commodore Kuldip Singh Sandhu (Retd). Expressive dance forms beautifully depicted the extraordinary contributions of historical and modern Indian icons -Laxmi Sehgal, Geeta Phogat and Lata Mangeshkar.

The Oratory at Don Bosco Nerul celebrated the day with colors, flags, and symbols of the nation coming alive on paper during a patriotic drawing competition for the children conducted by IndusInd Bank. The stage was then lit up with performances of speech, song and dance by the children of different classes. Awards were also presented to students as part of the programme honoring achievements across academics, arts, and service. 

Don Bosco Edu Complex, Yerwada commenced the day’s programme with flag hoisting as the school band played the national anthem. One of the highlights of the programme was the grand drill display presented by the students. With perfect coordination, discipline and determination, the students performed a series of exercises that beautifully reflected the values of unity, teamwork and perseverance. Students also took the Tobacco-Free Pledge committing themselves to make responsible and healthy choices as Indians.

Similarly, Don Bosco Educational Institute, Savedi, Ahilyanagar began the day with flag hoisting. Adding colour and spirit to the celebration, students from both Don Bosco Vidyalaya and Don Bosco English Medium School presented a variety of patriotic programmes. The performances included inspiring speeches, vibrant patriotic dances and a meaningful skit, beautifully portraying the values of patriotism, unity, sacrifice and love for the nation.

The programme at Don Bosco School & Junior College, Nashik commenced with a warm welcome of the chief guest Colonel Sampath Gopalan along with members of management, followed by the Guard of Honour and the ceremonial Flag Hoisting. The celebration continued with a lively dance performance by the Primary students, followed by a trilingual speech by students that highlighted the significance of Independence Day. A thought-provoking mime by the College students conveyed an important social message, while a patriotic song and an energetic dance by the Secondary students further enhanced the spirit of nationalism.

Don Bosco High School and Jr College, Naigaon observed Independence Day 2026 with great patriotic fervour, enthusiasm, and pride. In the days leading up to the celebration, several activities, including essay writing, quiz, and drawing competitions were organized. On August 15, the programme commenced with a grand ceremonial entry by the Scouts and Guides, who escorted the members of the Management. This was followed by a lively introduction and the rendition of Vande Mataram, the National Anthem, the State Anthem, and the Flag Song. The celebration continued with thoughtful speeches and poetry and a vibrant and captivating dance performance by the students of the Secondary Section.

Across the INB Province, India’s 80th Independence Day was celebrated with patriotism and love for the nation inculcating among the young a sense of responsibility to be respectful citizens mindful of their duty towards the future of the country.