EKTA DIWAS

Introduced by the Government of India in the year 2014, National Unity Day or Rāṣṭrīya ēkatā divas is celebrated in India on 31 October. This day is celebrated to mark the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel who had a major role in the political integration of India as the Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of the nation. At a time when many princely states of India were divided, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel held on to the vision of a united India and advocated for it. Indian School Sur celebrated National Unity Day on 31^st October 2022 by conducting a special extended morning assembly, which was attended by students of classes seven to twelve. The programme started by invoking the blessings of almighty with a prayer song. Mast. Shreyas Srinivasan of class IX presented a speech on the role played by Sardar Patel in the political unification of India. This was followed by an on stage debate by Meriya Susan and Insha Kamran both of class IX on the topic ‘Whose ideology was more effective in India’s freedom struggle, the extremists or the moderates?’ The students of class XII presented a musical drama themed on the importance of secularism in a multicultural country like India. The performance displayed the ethos of unity in diversity and served as an educative spectacle to the budding youth of the school and community.

‘Mile Sur Mera Tumhara’ (as the tune matches, mine and yours) an iconic Indian television song promoting national integration and unity in diversity was sung by the students attired in traditional clothes. The performance recaptured on stage the stunning visuals of the vintage song, which was an ensemble of major languages and cultures in India. All students of the school took part the National Unity Day pledge after the cultural programme. Principal Dr. S Srinivasan addressed the gathering on the importance of secularism and unity in the development of the nation. Dr, Srinivasan also took the opportunity to applaud the students and teachers for conducting the special programme.  The celebration concluded with the national anthem of India.