Delhi Public School, R.K. Puram hosted the National Inter DPS Hindustani Vocal Music Festival, “Swaranjali 2016” on 11 November, 2016. The event consisted of two categories, Solo and Group singing.
174 participants from 28 schools competed in the event. The judges for the Group Event were Mrs. Veena Pahari, Assistant Director at the All India Radio and Mrs. Anuradha Kotiyal, who has worked with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and with the All India Radio. The Solo Category was judged by Mrs. Meeta Pandit, a Hindustani classical music exponent and Ms.Sunanda Pathak, vocalist of the Delhi Gharana, author of two books on music and presently working at the University of Delhi.
It was wonderful seeing the students participate with full zest and enthusiasm. In the closing ceremony those present included Shri V.K. Shunglu, Chairman of DPS Society; Dr. Zeenat Khader, Jt Secretary, DPS Society and National convener of the Music Festival; the Principal, Ms. Vanita Sehgal; Vice Principal and programme Incharge, Ms. Padma Srinivasan; Vice Principal, Dr. Renu Nayar ; Mrs M.Sudeshna , programme coordinator and the complete music department. The Principal, Ms.Vanita Sehgal extended a warm welcome to all the guests. The ceremony had melodious songs by DPS Ranchi, DPS Noida and DPS Ranipur. The Chairman, Shri. V.K. Shunglu addressed the gathering and motivated everyone, “to strike a balance between extra-curriculars and academics to prepare themselves for this competitive world.”
In the Solo Category, the first position was bagged by DPS Ranchi while DPS Noida and DPS Vasant Kunj were the first and second runners-up respectively. In the Group Category, DPS Ranipur came first. DPS Jaipur came second while the second runners-up was DPS Dalegaon. The rolling trophy was awarded to DPS Raipur in the group category while DPS Ranchi was awarded the rolling trophy in the Solo Category.
Dr. Zeenat Khader, national convener gave the vote of thanks and emphasised on the fact that “participation is more important than anything”. It was a great event and at a time when more and more people are being attracted towards Western culture, a competition of classical music is indeed a great step to revive our traditions.
