St. Stanislaus High School, Bandra | 14th August 2025
The Brihanmumbai Interschool Republic Day Committee (BIRD), in collaboration with St. Stanislaus High School, Bandra, organized a solemn and patriotic Pre-Independence Day Celebration on 14th August 2025, to mark the 79th year of India’s Independence. The programme honoured the selfless service of the Armed Forces and Police, while instilling values of discipline, courage, and unity among the students. Twelve schools from across Mumbai joined in this memorable occasion.
The celebration commenced with the arrival of distinguished guests Padma Shri Dr. Z. Kazi, Guest of Honour, and Major General Mathews Jacob, VSM, Chief Guest. They were warmly received by the student community. A theme-based flag installation on world peace, created by St. Stanislaus High School, added depth and meaning to the welcome.
The highlight of the morning was the hoisting of the National Flag by Major General Jacob. A rifle salute by NCC cadets and the resounding notes of the National Anthem evoked a deep sense of pride. This was followed by a dramatic enactment by the NCC cadets of St. Stanislaus high school, depicting the recapturing of enemy posts an inspiring display of discipline, teamwork, and patriotism.
The formal gathering in the school auditorium began with the Maharashtra State Song and a solemn silence in memory of martyrs from the Armed Forces and Police. Dr. Kazi then led the students in the Pledge, reminding all of the responsibility that freedom demands. He was felicitated by a BIRD member and, in his address, emphasized peace, integrity, and service to the nation as guiding principles for the youth.
A stirring audio-visual presentation, Operation Sindhoor, paid tribute to the courage of the Armed Forces. The Chief Guest, Major General Jacob, was then introduced and felicitated. In his inspiring speech, he urged students to imbibe the values of discipline, resilience, and commitment in all walks of life.
The cultural segment featured a spellbinding performance by the Army’s Jammu & Kashmir Light Infantry Pipe Band, whose stirring tunes filled the hall with patriotic fervour. Students of Podar International School (SSC) added youthful energy with a vibrant patriotic dance performance.
The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Ms. Saba Patel, followed by the National Anthem, played in unison with the Army Pipe Band. Afterward, guests, principals, and students gathered for group photographs, refreshments, and an exclusive display of military hardware, which deeply impressed the young audience.
This joint celebration by BIRD and St. Stanislaus High School was a resounding success. It brought together schools, dignitaries and defence personnel in a shared tribute to the spirit of Independence reminding all present that freedom is both a gift and a responsibility.
Associated NCC Officer
S/O Nithiyanand Ponraj
