“Sport is a universal language, building more bridges between people than any other activity.” — Thomas Bach

Delhi Public School, RK Puram had the honour of hosting a distinguished delegation from New Zealand for a special interaction commemorating a century of sporting ties between India and New Zealand. Organised in collaboration with representatives of global sporting bodies, the event celebrated international camaraderie while strengthening bilateral ties through youth engagement and shared values.

The programme commenced at the school’s Sports Complex with the ceremonial welcome of the New Zealand delegation, followed by the National Anthems of India and New Zealand. A friendly Lawn Bowls exhibition match was then played between teams comprising dignitaries from New Zealand and India, symbolising sportsmanship, cooperation and mutual respect across borders.

The New Zealand delegation was led by the Honourable Chris Bishop, Associate Minister for Sport and Recreation, and included other eminent personalities such as Ms Raelene Castle, Chief Executive of Sport New Zealand Group and Mr Brett O’Riley, President of World Bowls. The event was also graced by the presence of Ms Sunaina Kumari, Deputy President, Bowls Asia, Shri V. K. Shunglu, Chairman, DPS Society and Smt Madhu Shunglu and Ms Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Minister of State, Sports along with several distinguished guests from the sporting fraternity.

Following the exhibition match, the programme continued in the Audio Visual Hall. The cultural segment commenced with a soulful rendition of Vande Mataram by the school choir, followed by an engaging performance by the Western Choir. The presentation celebrated India’s unity in diversity, symbolising how varied voices and cultures can harmoniously coexist like a vibrant mosaic.

In his address, the Principal, Shri Anil Kumar, emphasised the importance of competitive collaboration and its potential to make the world a better place. He warmly welcomed the guests and highlighted the school’s commitment to excellence, inclusivity and nurturing globally aware learners. This was followed by a mesmerising Durga Stuti dance performance presented by the students, invoking the blessings of Goddess Durga for harmony, strength and well-being. The performance beautifully showcased the richness and vibrancy of India’s cultural heritage.

The Chairman of the DPS Society, Shri V. K. Shunglu then addressed the gathering, reiterating the institution’s commitment to fostering inclusivity while sharing his vision for continued institutional growth, leadership and innovation. He also commended the Performing Arts Department for their graceful and captivating performances.

Mr Brett O’Riley, President of World Bowls, delivered a special presentation on strengthening sporting ties between India and New Zealand, particularly in the field of Lawn Bowls. The Honourable Chris Bishop, Associate Minister for Sport and Recreation, spoke about the purpose of the delegation’s visit, emphasising the role of sports in deepening connections between the two nations. He noted that the year 2026 marks a century of sporting relations between India and New Zealand.

Ms Raelene Castle, Chief Executive of Sport New Zealand, highlighted the transformative role of sports in shaping young lives by fostering teamwork, resilience and leadership within schools and communities. She also acknowledged the remarkable achievement of Ms Pinky Singh, a faculty member at DPS R.K. Puram and a member of the Indian Lawn Bowls team, who won a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games 2022. Reflecting on sport’s unifying power, she remarked that despite coming from different countries and journeys, “the same sport brought us together.”

The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks and the presentation of commemorative lawn bowls to the distinguished guests.

The occasion also marked the formal inauguration of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Wing of the school by the Honourable Chris Bishop, Associate Minister for Sport and Recreation; Shri V. K. Shunglu, Chairman, DPS Society; and Mrs Madhu Shunglu, in the presence of the Principal, Shri Anil Kumar. Also present on the occasion were the Vice Principals — Mr Naresh Kumar Miglani, Mr Mukesh Kumar, Mr Anil Kathuria and Ms Rashmi Malhotra; the Headmistresses — Dr Anubha Gopal, Ms Vinita Gupta and Ms Usha Diptivilasa; the IB Diploma Programme Head (Academics), Mr Ajay Goel; the IBDP Coordinator, Ms Sudeepta Chatterjee and members of the IBDP faculty.

The event stood as a meaningful celebration of excellence, cultural exchange and enduring international friendship, reaffirming the power of sports and education in strengthening global partnerships.

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