Independence Day Celebration 2026
Theme: “Freedom with Responsibility: Serving the Nation with Integrity”
The 80th Independence Day was celebrated with great zeal, patriotic fervour and a deep sense of national pride at Lourdes Central School on 15 August 2026. The school campus was beautifully adorned in the colours of the Indian tricolour, reflecting the spirit of the theme, “Freedom with Responsibility: Serving the Nation with Integrity.”
The programme commenced with the ceremonial escorting of the Manager, Rev. Fr Stany Pereira, the Chief Guest, Lt. Col. Dr. Zahid Ali Khan, Senior Manager – Health Services and Chief Medical Officer, ONGC-MRPL; the Principal, Rev. Fr Johnson L. Sequeira; the Vice Principal, Ms. Anita Thomas; Ms. Cynthia Avita Pinto, Secretary Bejai Pastoral Parishad, Head boy Master Karma Patel and Head Girl Ms. Sharvi Shetty and other dignitaries to the venue. The dignitaries were escorted by the NCC, JRC, Scouts and Guides cadets, School Band adding a sense of discipline and grandeur to the occasion.
The programme commenced with the soulful rendition of the National Song, Vande Mataram, evoking a strong sense of patriotism and national pride among the gathering. This was followed by the ceremonial hoisting of the National Flag by the Chief Guest, after which the students, teachers and parents joined together in singing the National Anthem, filling the atmosphere with a profound sense of unity, pride and devotion to the nation. The sight of the tricolour fluttering proudly in the morning sky filled the atmosphere with patriotism and pride. A melodious prayer song was then presented, invoking God’s blessings for the peace, prosperity and progress of the nation.
The welcome address was delivered by Tanay Kishore, Naeem Ahmed Basheer, Sahana Das and Tanvi P. This was followed by a magnificent March Past by the NCC cadets. The cadets displayed exceptional discipline, coordination and dedication, symbolising the spirit of service and commitment towards the nation.
The Chief Guest, Lt. Col. Dr. Zahid Ali Khan, was then introduced by the Vice Principal to the gathering through a presentation of his achievements and was felicitated by the dignitaries on the stage. In his inspiring address, he emphasised that serving the nation is not limited to wearing a defence uniform. He reminded the students that they can serve the country through their everyday actions—by studying sincerely and with curiosity, protecting the environment, respecting public property, standing against bullying, showing kindness and contributing towards harmony in society. He encouraged the students to dream big, remain focused and work hard, while avoiding distractions and negative influences.
The significance of Independence Day was further highlighted by Lohit Kanna and Tianna Pinto through a thought-provoking poem. Their presentation reminded the audience of the sacrifices made by the freedom fighters and the responsibility that rests upon every citizen to safeguard the values for which the nation struggled.
The Manager, Rev. Fr. Stany Pereira, then addressed the gathering. In his message, he explained the true meaning of independence and reminded everyone that freedom comes with responsibility. He emphasised that being free means having the responsibility to do what is right for oneself, for others and for the nation. He also reminded the students that the freedom and security enjoyed by citizens come at a great cost, paid through the dedication and sacrifice of the soldiers who guard the nation’s borders.
The cultural segment added colour and vibrancy to the celebration. Students presented a patriotic dance portraying the unity and diversity of India, followed by a soulful patriotic song. The performances beautifully reflected the values of patriotism, unity, service and integrity and received enthusiastic applause from the audience.
The programme concluded with the vote of thanks proposed by Nirvaan Alva and Roshel G. The entire programme was compered by Joanna Anaya Kunder, Prathista Shetty, Nihali G. M., Sanaya Rajesh, Arya S. Boloor, Prashas G. Bangera, Aryan Y. S., Sudish R. K. and John Rutham Pal Varakala. The programme was organised and conducted by the students of Grades 7A, 7B, and 7E under the guidance of Ms. Asha S. and Ms. Neha Michel.
The 80th Independence Day celebration at Lourdes Central School was a meaningful tribute to the nation and its freedom fighters. The programme successfully combined patriotism, discipline, cultural expression and the message of responsible citizenship. It reminded every student that true freedom is not merely the absence of restrictions but the opportunity and responsibility to contribute positively to the nation. The celebration concluded on a memorable note, leaving everyone with a renewed sense of patriotism, discipline and commitment to serve the nation with honesty and integrity.
