Lourdes Central School Celebrates 75th Independence Day
Mangaluru: “Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country.” – Jawaharlal Nehru
The 75th Independence Day was celebrated at Lourdes Central School on 15th August 2021 at the School Grounds. The programme began at 8.00a.m. with a Prayer Song sung by the teachers. The dignitaries present on the occasion were the Manager Rev. Dr John Baptist Saldanha, the Principal Rev. Fr Robert D’Souza, Vice Principal Mrs Belita Mascarenhas, Asst Parish Priest Rev. Fr Suraj Lobo and Rev. Dr Vincent Sequeira, Deacon Anush D’Cunha, Vice President and Secretary Bejai Parish Pastoral Parishad Mr Ashok Pinto and Ms Preeti Gomes, Members of the Management Committee Mr Roman D’Souza, Mr Arun D’Cunha, Ms Anita Veigas and Edweena Monis.
The Principal Rev. Fr Robert D’Souza welcomed the dignitaries, the staff and Bejai Parishioners. The students and parents were given a genial welcome who participated in the programme virtually. The Principal said that one needs to be inspired by self-resilience and walk in the glory of democracy. The National Flag was hoisted by the Manager of LCS Rev. Dr John Baptist Saldanha followed by the singing of the National Anthem, representing the symbol of our national pride and the hope and aspirations of the people of India.
The significance of the Day was given by Ms Rekha Naveen who highlighted that on every Independence Day we not only celebrate our freedom, but we also pay tribute to the ones who fought for it, to the ones who held a vision for our country, and to the ones who sacrificed themselves for the same.
The teachers sang a melodious patriotic Hindi song and rekindled the pride of being an Indian.
The School Magazine which is the face of the School with the writings of the budding writers and artists, for the year 2020-21 was released by the Manager Rev. Dr John Baptist Saldanha and the dignitaries present on stage.
The Presidential address was delivered by Rev. Dr John Baptist Saldanha. He stated that as we celebrate 75th Independence Day, we have to recall the sacrifice of freedom fighters and gave us a call to learn to sacrifice for the nation. He gave an insight into the colours of the national flag where saffron stands for strength and unity, white for truth and peace, and green for prosperity. He said that through our difficulties we have learnt to be strong and courageous.
The programme ended with the words of gratitude by Ms Vivita D’Souza. The programme was compered by Ms Dilla Colaco.
On this 75th Independence Day let us pledge to spread love, peace and joy; and let the tricolour gentle up the sky in all its glory! HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!