Hyderabad: The 80th Independence Day celebrations were held with great patriotic fervour and dignity at Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vihar High School, Hyderabad. Major General N. Srinivas Rao (Retd.), National Vice President, Dakshin Bharat, and Telangana State President of Rashtriya Sainik Sanstha, was invited as the Guest of Honour. Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba was the Chief Guest, while the programme was presided over by Dr. Gopi Krishna Pidatala, National Coordinator, Education Wing, and Convener, Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vihar High School.
The school auditorium was beautifully adorned with life-size portraits of Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba and Shirdi Sai Baba. The programme commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp, followed by the singing of the national song, unfurling of the national flag and the national anthem. The atmosphere was filled with patriotism and pride.
Addressing the students, teachers, staff and dignitaries on the dais, Major General N. Srinivas Rao (Retd.) called upon the younger generation to contribute their fullest potential towards building Viksit Bharat 2047, Atma Nirbhar Bharat and Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. He emphasised that the future of the nation rests with its youth and that education must go hand in hand with discipline, character, ethical values and a strong sense of responsibility towards the nation.
Special Birthday Felicitation
The Independence Day celebrations also coincided with the birthday of Major General N. Srinivas Rao. The school organised a special cake-cutting ceremony to mark the occasion. He was honoured with a shawl and presented with a Lord Ganesha idol, along with shirt and trouser fabric as a birthday gift, with the blessings of Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.
Students Present a Vibrant Cultural Programme
The celebrations featured a series of beautifully presented cultural performances by the students. Their presentations reflected patriotism, Indian heritage and cultural values and were appreciated by the gathering.
The programme concluded with an Aarti to Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, followed by enthusiastic chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.”
The school’s Convener, Dr. Gopi Krishna Pidatala, subsequently accompanied Major General N. Srinivas Rao to an exhibition showcasing creative and informative projects prepared by the young students of the school.
Blending Education with Values and Indian Heritage
The celebrations also highlighted the school’s efforts towards nurturing character, ethical values and a strong cultural foundation among young minds. Alongside modern education, the institution places emphasis on Sanatana Dharma traditions, Veda Pathanam, and stories from Indian scriptures and Puranas.
A major highlight was the dance-drama depicting the story of Mahishasura Mardini, presented with the support of AI-generated infographics. The performance showcased an innovative blend of India’s rich cultural heritage with modern technology.
The celebrations underlined the importance of nurturing a generation that is not only academically and technologically equipped, but also rooted in patriotism, discipline, ethical values, cultural traditions and a strong sense of responsibility towards society and the nation.
