Palamau: The ideals of truth, non-violence, simplicity and national service came alive at MSA Public School, Pokharaha, as the institution observed Gandhi-Shastri Jayanti with patriotic fervour, a morning procession and a peace-cum-awareness rally.
The celebrations began in early morning with students taking out a Prabhat Pheri and peace march through the locality. Children dressed in the distinctive attire of Mahatma Gandhi emerged as a special attraction, drawing appreciation from residents and lending a vibrant patriotic character to the programme.
Shafique Ansari, the founder-cum-chairman, inaugurated the celebrations by garlanding the portraits of Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and lighting the ceremonial lamp.
The academic and cultural programme that followed reflected the students’ understanding of the lives and ideals of the two national leaders. Students presented an expressive dance to the patriotic song “Sabarmati Ke Sant Tune Kar Diya Kamaal”, while a child dressed as Gandhi presented an engaging enactment. A short play based on Gandhi’s life and philosophy further brought the principles of truth and non-violence before the audience.
Students also delivered thoughtful speeches on the lives and contributions of Gandhi and Shastri, highlighting their enduring relevance for the younger generation.
Addressing the gathering, Ansari said Gandhi’s sacrifice and his historic contribution to India’s freedom struggle through the path of truth and non-violence could never be forgotten. He said Shastri, remembered for his simplicity, humility and high ideals, continued to offer an example of public life rooted in values.
The younger generation must not merely remember Gandhi and Shastri as historical figures but should strive to incorporate their ideals into everyday life,” Ansari said, urging students to follow the path shown by the two leaders.
Principal Afzal Shafique said Gandhi and Shastri enhanced the country’s dignity through their commitment to “simple living and high thinking.” He stressed the importance of introducing these values to children through both education and practice.
The Prabhat Pheri and peace march also received appreciation from local residents, who said such initiatives helped create an atmosphere of patriotism and social awareness in the community. The participation of schoolchildren, they observed, gave the message of national unity and responsible citizenship a visible public expression.
The programme was presided over by Prachi Pandey, while Manish Pandey and Neeraj Kumar conducted the proceedings. Teachers Amitabh Pandey, Suhail Alam, Amit Prajapati, Sharanam Singh, Kaveri Gupta and Sonali Tiwari played a significant role in organising the celebrations.
The programme concluded with a collective emphasis on carrying forward the values represented by Gandhi and Shastri—values that continue to connect education with character, citizenship with responsibility and patriotism with public service.