“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” – Helen Keller

Delhi Public School, R.K. Puram hosted its annual Scholar Badge Ceremony for class VII on 3rd of December, 2019. This event aims at honouring the curricular and co-curricular achievements of the students for the year 2018-19. The theme of the event was “When I went beyond myself, the pathway finally opened” – a message that inspired the scholars to work diligently for their ambitions and effectively utilise their potential.

The event commenced with the auspicious lamp lighting ceremony by the Chief Guest, Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Principal, Ms. Vanita Sehgal, Vice Principals, Ms. Padma Srinivasan and Dr. Renu Nayar and the Headmistress, Ms. Niva Chhonkar to invoke the blessings of the Almighty. The scintillating beats of the orchestra welcomed the gathering to this prestigious event. A video presentation was displayed showcasing the achievements of the students in several spheres.

The Principal felicitated the Chief Guest, Dr. Mohapatra, who is currently the Director General of Meteorology, India Meteorological Department. He is the permanent representative of India with WMO and has been elected as a Member of the Executive Council. With a Ph.D in Physics and 26 years of experience in meteorology, he has made significant contributions towards the improvement of early warning services of IMD. He is popularly known as the “Cyclone Man of India”. He is also the author of more than 75 research papers and has been awarded prestigious accolades like the 25th Biennial Mausam Award.

Ms. Vanita Sehgal began her address by expressing her pride in the curricular and co-curricular achievements of the scholars, saying that “their achievements just get larger and larger.” She elaborated how the school encourages holistic development of its students and provides them with numerous opportunities to acquire valuable skills, which succour them to grow as individuals.She emphasised on the theme by sharing anecdotes such as that of the Wise Old Man repeating his jokes to discover no one laughed at them thrice, condemning lamenting over the   same problem over and over again, and of the Gifted but Lazy Child who took for granted his parent’s money. The evident conclusion was that the students should be made to realise the value of money and be held accountable for their actions, at the same time be optimistic by having faith in themselves.

She then said, “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard” and urged the gathered to make perpetual efforts  in order to achieve their goals. The Principal also recalled influential lines of a popular song called ‘The Climb’ by Miley Cyrus, which is adored and sung widely by adolescents. She commented how one has to encounter challenges which seem as huge as a mountain but with determination and hardwork one can scale these heights.

The Cultural Programme began with a soulful and upbeat rendition of the choir, which left the audience spellbound. This was followed by a spirited drama in Hindi depicting the wisdom and teachings of Kabir Das through the lives of two young school going boys. The English speeches sought to preach that even in unfortunate times, happiness and satisfaction can be discovered if one braces their heart and mind. Two exemplary dance pieces were presented before the audience, earning a loud applause for their enchanting movements and magnificent poses.The children recited ‘A Different Perspective’.The poem emphasised the importance of looking at things in a positive light. When recited top to bottom but shows the negative aspects of life when recited in reverse order.

The Chief Guest, Dr. Mohapatra, extended his greetings to the esteemed Principal, proud parents and scholars. He expressed how D.P.S. R.K. Puram serves as an ideal platform to spread the message on the information on climatic changes and its effects and how honoured he was to have the stage. He further elaborated upon the dire need to equip students with knowledge on climate  in order to protect oneself and others against natural hazards and minimise the loss of life. He appreciated the various projects undertaken by the school regarding this concern and offered his maximum support and proposed the idea of “collaborative work”. Commenting upon the theme, he urged the gathered to believe that “everyday is a success story” and wished them the best for their future endeavours.The Chief Guest along with the Principal and Headmistress honoured the meritorious students and the Prize Distribution Ceremony was conducted by the Class Representatives, Ms. Ritu Raj and  Ms. Richa Basrao.

The Vote of Thanks was delivered by the Headmistress, Ms. Niva Chhonkar. The event concluded with the National Anthem.