A day of gratitude and celebration

The Grandparents’ Day celebrations hold immense value, fostering intergenerational bonding and preserving traditions. They provide a heartfelt platform to honour the wisdom, love, and experiences of grandparents, creating lasting memories and reinforcing the cultural roots that shape family values and heritage.

On Saturday, January 18, Apeejay School, Saket hosted its much-anticipated Grandparents’ Day celebration, aptly themed Salute to Our Roots. The event commenced at 9 am in the school’s auditorium which transformed into a warm and inviting space filled with joy and nostalgia. An interactive projector at the backdrop showcased glimpses of the pre-primary section’s vibrant activities over the past year, setting the tone for an event steeped in celebration and gratitude.

The auditorium brimmed with nearly 60-70 grandparents and parents, all eager to partake in this heartfelt homage. The event began with an eloquent welcome speech by Ms Seema Passi, PRT English, Activity Coordinator.

who eloquently described grandparents as the “pillars of the family.” This was followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, a significant highlight of the event. Breaking tradition, the lamp-lighting was led primarily by the grandparents, a thoughtful gesture underscoring their importance, alongside Dr Sujeet Eric Masih, the Principal of the school.

Adding a melodious touch to the occasion, Ms Mahima and Mr Kamal Joshi, the music teachers of the school rendered a live musical performance that created a serene and festive ambience. The students then took to the stage, addressing the grandparents with heartfelt namastes and warm welcomes, celebrating the cherished presence of nana-nani” and dada-dadi.

The cultural performances commenced with a mesmerising Ganesh Vandana dance by the KG students, a visual treat that left the audience spellbound. Dr Masih’s formal welcome followed, where he expressed his profound gratitude and admiration for the grandparents in attendance. His speech resonated deeply: “A home blessed with grandparents is always filled with love and goodness. You are the crown of the family, and your wisdom, love, and moral values are irreplaceable,” he shared. He emphasised the unique upbringing of children who grow up with grandparents, calling them “differently nurtured” and “better prepared for life.”

The class I students raised the emotional quotient with a heartwarming welcome song dedicated to the grandparents. The highlight of the event was when students from pre-primary and primary classes took turns sharing fond memories and cherished experiences with their grandparents. Young voices, including Nysa, Atharv, Ayesha, Yashika, and Aaradhya, lit up the stage as they shared anecdotes that brought smiles and tears to many.

To add an element of fun and interaction, the school organised six specially designed games exclusively for the grandparents. Activities like Ulta Pulta Maths, Arrange the Glasses, Beat the Beads, Musical Hats, Corn Hole, and Builders and Bulldozers brought out their competitive spirit. Winners were celebrated with prizes, adding to the festive cheer.

“I got extremely emotional watching the entire event. I think the school took a wonderful initiative. Advait also performed, and seeing him on stage made me feel proud,” shared Ms Nisha Bajpai, grandmother of Advait Bajpai.

The cultural performances were undoubtedly the emotional cornerstone of the event. From the electrifying Bam-Bam Bole to other stirring acts, the student’s enthusiasm and talent left an indelible impression on the audience. Many grandparents, moved by the performances, were inspired to share their words of wisdom and heartfelt gratitude on stage, making the celebration even more personal and meaningful.

“I loved this celebration. It reminded me of my childhood days. The experience was truly great,” added Ms Manju, grandmother of Sanchal Ghoshal, a student from Class I.

“Such events should take place regularly. I loved it. It was a great, great event. Many blessings to all the kids,” shared Mr NK Sharma, grandfather of Abhiraj, a student from nursery.

The event provided an opportunity for all attendees to enjoy snacks and tea together. The event concluded on a poetic note with Ms Ashu Khattar, the school’s Vice-principal, delivering the vote of thanks. Her speech, interwoven with a touching poem, reflected her nostalgic memories of her grandparents. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to all the grandparents for sparing their valuable time to be part of the event, calling their presence a testament to their immense love for their grandchildren.

“Your life lessons and values are miracles that shape the lives of our children,” she remarked. Ms Khattar urged grandparents to continue spending quality time with their grandchildren, especially in this digital age where such interactions are invaluable.

She concluded with an appeal: “Encourage your grandchildren to lower their screen time, share meals, and create memories that last a lifetime” She also thanked the management, principal, teachers, students, and the tech and music teams for their efforts in organising the event.

The Grandparents’ Day celebration at Apeejay School, Saket was a heartwarming tribute to the invaluable role grandparents play in our lives. It was a day filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories — a perfect salute to our roots.

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