AAM 2010 Closing ceremony, Fun and frolic unbolted….

If day three of Annual Athlete Meet had a bundle of entertainment packed inside, its descendant has wrapped up full fun and frolic as on the 4th Day, closing ceremony took place with the declaration of Winning House and The Best Athlete of the year. The last day of the Meet saw the best of the best athletes (participants of field and track events) going neck to neck.


The 16th 17th 18th and 19th of December 2010 saw a shift in the enthusiasm of Atmiya family in the sprawling campus Kothar Building Ground as AVM witnessed its best for the four days of INSTINCTS!!! Fierce competition yet united spirits to win, to make this grandeur carnival successful than ever!!


It was pure fun and frolic at the ground with crazy and jubilant participants. The Chief Guests for the day was Dr. Jagdish Chandra Gothi, Associate Professor, Physical Education Department, Sadhra College. Pujya Premswaroop Swamiji, Pujya Suhrad Swamiji, Harish Sir and other distinguished personalities were also received with the customary general salute. They were witnessing gladly how sprawling turf of the ground was adorned by agile athletes competing to crown themselves with eternal glory.

High above, the clear clouds clustered around as rapt spectators: out from the green groves the golden liveried Sunday sun peeped out anxiously and down below the ground reverberated with cheers of a teeming crowd; the arena was thus set to unfold the epic battle - The Inter House Annual Athletic Meet for the year 2010-11. The final day included relay races of 4 x 100 meter, 200 meter and novelty races of obstacles, slow cycling, tyre and drum walk.


The Baton Passes on.......


The morning was bright; the playground wore a festive look as the colourful flags around the field gently fluttered in the morning breeze. The 4 x 100 m relay race is just as much a skill event as a speed event. A team with four decent sprinters of each house Satyam, Shivam, Sundaram and Suhradam ran to out-race a team with four better sprinters by beating the faster team in the exchange zones. The winners knew that the key to this event is how much time the baton spends in those exchange zones. The runners were sprightly yet aware that they should not drop the baton until it is held by the next. Novelty and Relay races: testing their coordination and swiftness what a coordination among each team!!!


The huge play ground had around many spectators hooting and hollering for the best crashes and distances. Josh set up a ‘applause-o-meter’ at the top and building ranking the crowd’s favourites. There were four houses competing for the grand prize,


Following this was the 100m dash for all divisions, and the 200m race for the B division. The athletes gave off their best for the last few races, showing utmost skill and grit, as could be seen by the many nail-biting finishes. These were succeeded by the 10 x 50m Shuttle Relay for Classes 3 & 4 and the widely anticipated Mixed Relay, both of which drew fierce partisanship from all the houses. However soon after, school spirit triumphed with the four rival teams uniting to cheer for the participants.

When they ran, they had to keep moving! No matter the type of event they were the part of, as they kept an attitude and spirit that emphasizes fun and fitness while de-emphasizing winning and losing.

The relay event was a spectacular feast to the beholders as they captured those rare moments when Bhavik of Suhradam House flew around the track like a fierce breeze who was eventually declared as the best athlete of the year. The playground battle saw records being rewritten, new champions reinventing themselves in an event hitherto untried; but it was just not the fun in the air, relationship were blooming as well. Solidarity was sown among the house members as they encouraged their housemates through victories and vanquishes; leaders were groomed as the house prefects shouldered the responsibility of leading their team and most of all a healthy competitive spirit was nourished among the competing houses.


The teachers as spectators were without exception, all enthusiastic and cheering and hadn't waned at all. The teachers on duty at different points as time keeper and event manager kept on either throwing their hands up in despair or whistling to command the rules but none of them could dodge the ongoing fun.


A harmonious accompaniment of the rhythmic beats of music kindled the spirits fuelled with belief of true sportsmanship; the young athletes unleashed their sporting skills on the grounds.


The students of VIII, IX and X performed a rhythmic drill and a dance, which proved to be a feast for the eyes for everyone. The show triumphed with some great music and avid audiences. True to its tagline “Hear it!! Cheer it!!” it won cheers from all around.


Suhradam House: The Proud Team with its coveted possession…


As the bright sun sunk the horizon the anxiety and eagerness soared. The sparkling lights around the ground unveiled the nail biting expression of house members. The athletes awaited announcement of the results restlessly. The distribution of the prizes and the shield being collected by the victorious team was the main attraction. The rapturous winners shrouded with unlimited joy came on the stage to receive the certificate and medal, at this moment the play ground air was laden with cheers and applause. Heaps of praises were showered on the winning house members. Suhradam House cheers hit the sky as they were declared the champions of 2010.


The camera traversed the length and breadth of the field capturing every triumph and disappointment.


After the winning team made an exit, the stage sizzled with a variety of host performances including interviewing the winners and hilarious remarks by Prabhudarshan Sir, Niharika Mam and Manju Mam.


Many an athletic record was broken and the sportsmen raised the standard of sports by dint of their own perseverance. With the singing of the National Anthem came the desire to win more laurels and break more records the Annual Athlete Meet 2010 declared closed.


The credit for this hugely successful event goes to the athletes, the quietly yet meticulously working Shekhar Sir and all sports teachers and other members of Atmiya Family who chipped in with priceless contributions. This Athlete Meet proved to be a type of spectacle which presented ostensibly competitive events using natural capability of individual child (athlete), unlike typical athletic events and games, inducing competition as well as sportsmanship. The day drew its blinds ceremoniously on the event but the ripples of these memories and the values it instilled will certainly be treasured in the days to come!!!

Written by Seema Madam

AAM 2010 - Day 3 - Runners made giant stride or they threw the fatigue away!!!

For a sports fan of Atmiya Vidya Mandir, it is truly blissful to be a part of the 7th Annual Athletic Meet 2010. Though, everybody experienced all-consuming passion not to miss the variety of action on display, it was difficult to enjoy and focus on any one event. What a feast on offer!

It was the third day of the sports bonanza. It started with prayers and pujan of Thakorji. Saturday morning, the deceptively pleasant early morning breeze gave way to the scorching heat. Soon the escorting group Harsh Ambaliya, Piyush Sarda, Harsh Vaghela, Himanshu Patel, Love Patel, Vishvajit Solanki, Abhishek Ariwala and Abhishek D Patel assisted the chief guest to the dais. The Chief Guest of the day was Retired Lieutenant  Gajendrakumar Srivastav who has served the Indian Defense Forces (Army and Navy) for more than two decades and also is the grandson of the first President of India - Shri Rajendraprasad! His speech was highly inspiring for all present and students made the most of this opportunity to interact with him.

As the day wore on, the enthusiasm of the spectators on the other side of the field could clearly be seen. The groups of young sports enthusiasts and teachers clapped and danced for the winners and participants, the tiny tots of I, II and III hopped and tapped zestfully to the music much like shaking spectators out of their seeming stupor.

All the students along with teachers and hostel staff were bellowing and hooting at the various areas of the huge ground witnessing the participants tossed between losing and winning. The excitement was at its peak, as the shuttle race for juniors started. "Ready? Go!" the participant runs to the other line, picks up a block and returns to place it behind the starting line, then returns to pick up the second block, then runs with it back across the line. It was a test of aerobic endurance performed by juniors moving back and forth swiftly.

The other area of the ground was much lively with Ball throw event as the students were employing their glide technique used to generate the efficient and powerful movement where the thrower moves across the throwing circle quickly to develop speed, and with one fluid motion throws the shot, twisting the body at the point of the delivery which usually determines success. Wow! Amazing training given to them by sports teachers! Congrats to Shekhar Sir, Pradeep Sir, Ritesh Sir, Ramakar Sir and all the sports teachers.

Along with the running and jumping events, throwing events complete the Track & Field trifecta. The throwing events were the discus throw, shot put and ball throws. As with many athletic events, the limelight were shot putters and other field competitors toiling in anonymity to win the competitions. It is noteworthy that in this strength event, unlike other competitions, physical fitness and mental force are key ingredients for success and Atmiya Vidya Mandir students displayed their physical and mental coordination very well throughout these events. Besides quickness & power, character traits such as punctuality, teamwork, coach-ability and aggressiveness are inculcated. At the high school level, an average athlete with these qualities can still achieve a relatively high standard of success and this is what the Atmiyan Athletes know!!!

Shouts of encouragement, moans and groans were heard across the length and breadth of the field. The non-participants, teachers, house-masters, didis and everybody present looked with much astonishment coupled with excitement as the athletes of different groups showed a spell of agility, speed and explosiveness. The participants seemed to be indefatigable in their efforts at securing points for their house. In a manner truly commendable, the onlookers kept the fun and frolic go on along with participants.

The winners’ list for day 2 is as follows.

But the last day..... last moment excitement is still to come…Who will be the best athlete?????? Which house will be at the top??????

Hold on!!!!!!!! 

Written by: Seema Madam

AAM 2010 - Day 2 - Zest and Zeal Soaring

The ongoing sports fiesta at Atmiya Vidya Mandir play ground reverberated with lots of booming, hooting and cheering as the students, teachers and hostel staff enjoyed the track and field events of the second day during 7th Annual Athletics Meet 2010.The lime light was, of course, the chief guest who was none other than Dhupli Sir, who was a part of the recently held Commonwealth Games and who has served in Atmiya Vidya Mandir for a few years now.

Attending a track and field meet was altogether a different experience, almost like watching a three-ring circus, with a variety of action happening at the same time.

Sports H.O.D Shekhar Sir along with Kalpesh sir and Ramakar Sir were walking across the ground to ensure smooth happening of all the events. Pranshu Savani and Yathansh Joshi enthralled the crowd with their commentary as they handled the mic very well. Niharika Mam and Manju Mam spiced up the fun and frolic with their witty remarks from the stage.

Team officials and teachers have been allocated their particular groups for the entire meet. Each group has different house members and students competing in each event. The aim of the challenge is to collect points for their respective house and gain School Sports glory.

A very impressive and a spectacular event was the different races. It was the turn of the vaulting group of boys composed of group A to group D respectively running for 50, 100, 200 and 400 mt. race. Runners stride around the track, sometimes sprinting, other times pacing themselves, re-living the excitement, anticipation and glory started with much zest and zeal.

Another outstanding act was the long-leap that was high jump where Akshay D. Patel and Vishlesh Gondaliya bagged First and Second position.

The student volunteers were ever active wearing orange and green T-shirts with all hues of gaiety and gusto to extend their helping hand in medical, refreshments or ferrying the things across the ground. Hats off to their humble efforts!!!!

Right over the other end of the ground was the temporary office where Rupashree Mam and Jignesh Sir were watching over the participants and students of different house and groups on disciplinary level. Vijay Bhai and Pankaj Bhai were right on their toes to offer any medical help.

In the midst of the ground, Pravartak Sir and Pujeet Bhai were moving their cameras all around to catch the ongoing fervor for digital memories. The camera captured every move that the participant made.

Nothing could fall beyond the purview of the ever alert powerful watch of Bharat Sir, Anand Sir, Prerak Sir, Rashmi Mam, Ritesh Sir and Pradeep Sir who were at the starting and finishing lines of the racing track designated as Technical Expert, Umpire, Referee and Timekeepers.

The pulsating- jazzy music was well blend to the booming and shrieking of the students and teachers cheering the participants. Amazing tunes were played by Hiren Bhai and his group.

The principal Swayam Madam was spotted being one with the junior group of I and II std students. The house conveners of Satyam, Shivam, Sundaram and Suhradam houses were much more excited adding much to the excitement among the onlookers.

Combining seven different track and field events the participants, in quick succession, commenced their headlong assault over various track and field events which tests the endurance, strength and all-round ability of the athlete, awarding contestants points in each event for their best performance.

The winners of the second day events are as follows: 

Written by: Seema Madam

7th Annual Athletics Meet 2010 - Day 1 Report

After the long Diwali vacation, the school reopened with a big bang of upcoming 7th Annual Athletic Meet 2010. Along with gearing up for academic activities, Atmiya Vidya Mandir campus is buzzed evoking a lot of passion and fervour to the students.

The various events of this Athletic Meet are scheduled meticulously and programmed very well for four days from 16th December to 19th December 2010. H.D.H. P.P Swamiji says that every student must inculcate in himself the virtue of a true sports person, who does not see the contestants running along but instead concentrates on the finishing line.

“Winning is not everything, but participation and will to win is everything” - with this punch line, the opening ceremony of the 7th Annual Athletic Meet took place on 16th December 2010. The ground was most enthusiastically decorated by putting in untiring efforts for days and nights, literally, by all the sports teachers of the school. Atmiya Vidya Mandir is very fortunate to have a very dedicated and comprehensive team of sports teachers. The team includes Shekhar Sir, Ritesh Sir, Pradip Sir, Kalpesh Sir, Devang Sir, Himanshu Sir, D P Sir, Ramakar Sir, Mehul Sir, Mitesh Sir, Vinod Sir and Hemant Sir. You counted it right, that’s 12 of them!

As the winter sun started dropping in, the students began to group themselves with their house members and team officials in the school cricket ground to participate in 7th annual athletics meet. The programme started with general salute to the chief guests Mr. R M Patel, Deputy Chief Engineer - GEB, Shree Manharbhai, Director - Sugar factory Sarthana, Pujya Fuaji and the elders who presided over the venue. The students escorted the honourable guests onto the stage, Harsh Ambaliya followed by Abhishek Ariwala holding the school flag to the dais. The grand celebration started with pujan of Thakorji by the honourable guests. The meet was thereafter declared open by the chief guest. The school song reverberated around the venue when the school flag was unfurled to mark the official opening of the event.

After this, students put up a spectacular dance performance on the ground demonstrating various national and international games. Their amazing coordination, sense of rhythm and harmony left the viewers awestruck. An important lesson that the students learnt from the experience was to make the best of what life offered to each person. The students also showed utmost discipline and synchronization while taking part in the march past walking along with their respective house group.

The last year’s best athletes were the torchbearers. Aditya Patel (Class 10) ran with the torch and handed it over to Bhavik Patel (Class 10) who passed it on to Akshay Patel (Class 9) followed by Deepak Khatri (Class 8). The torch then passed hands from Deep Chamaria (Class 7) to Parag Algotar (Class 6) to Sarvanaman Patel (Class 5) to Hardik Gajiwala (Class 4) to Shivang Patel (Class 3) and finally to the little champ of last year Smit Vaghela (Class 2). It finally reached back to Aditya who lit the main torch and took the oath along with all the participants. The principal of the school, Swayam Madam delivered the welcome speech and the chief guests were then presented with bouquet by the students of I and II Std. A warm welcome was also offered to Pujya Sahjik Ben and Pujya Saral Ben who had come from Haridham especially for the event.

There was an outstanding presentation of physical fitness through Surya Namaskar by the students of all the groups. Everyone watched with abated breath as boys performed the brilliant and well co-ordinated yoga asanas.

The events of the day were 100 and 200 m race for various groups. These events evoked a lot of passion and fervor among the Atmiyans, with each contestant trying to outdo the other and secure the most priced medal. The intensity and the spirit of the competition could be judged from the excitement of all the house members cheering for their respective house contestants in the race.

The ground reverberated with feverish enthusiasm as the tempo set in with the teachers and the students excitedly cheering them, voicing the spirit of oneness among all till the evening. Finally, the first day of the athletic meet concluded with prize distribution and declaring of the house positions for the day. Shivam House turned out to be the leading house for the day.

The results of the various events of the day are as follows:

Written by: Seema Madam

Suhradam Murti Pratishtha Mahotsav at Atmiya Vidya Mandir

Once, when Swamiji was on His US vichran, a dignitary approached Swamiji and asked “How many temples do you want to make?” Swamiji replied “50000 temples in two years….” The man was surprised, rather amazed that “Swamiji wants to build 50000 temples within two years, how can it be possible….” After a while, Swamishree beamed and explained that He wants to turn thousands of devotee’s hearts into temples which become a pious place where God resides. Swamishree assured the gentleman that He did not plan to construct temples out of cement, bricks and marbles, instead, He envisages to cultivate conviction and practice of ‘spiritual affinity with one and all’ i.e Atmiyata in all the devotees so that their heart becomes the holy abode of the God Himself.

With such devout purpose and through His divine prowess and sublime selfless love, Swamiji established Atmiya Vidya Mandir, where education leads to sustain divinity in every individual; such a stage is obtainable within religious milieu and spiritual guidance. Hence on the auspicious day of DevDiwali, the 21st of November 2010, Swamishree inaugurated the newly constructed temple in the school premises.

The inauguration ceremony was separated in two stages. The first stage was the Suhradam Yagna Anushthan and the second was the installation of the murtis at the sinhasan in the temple.

2010 is a special year for the members of Atmiya Vidya Mandir family where devotees and volunteers began preparing for this event under the guidance of P.P. Prabodh Swamiji and P.P. Suhrad Swamiji. One of the distinct facets of this festival preparation was excellent co-ordination and gelling of all the members. A meticulous planning, execution and above all with a required feeling of duties and seva was perceptible among them.

For those living in and around the school campus, it was inspiring to watch the dedication with which preparations were taking place for this event. As the weeks ran into days there was a perceptible increase in the tempo of activity at Atmiya Vidya Mandir.

On Saturday, the 20th of November 2010, Suhradam Yagna Anushthan was conducted at the school cricket ground in front of the Kothar Bhavan. About 650 couples participated in this Yagna. Along with the main havan kund at the centre of the pandal, there were more than 212 havan kunds around which three couples along with their relatives performed the holy rituals for the Yagna. Swamishree arrived at the pandal and gave His darshan to all the devotees performing and witnessing the Yagna. Devotees from various parts of India and abroad were part of this historical event and thousands of them witnessed the same. Swamiji extended His amrut vani saying that the purifying offerings to the sacred fire in the Yagna not only lead to a fulfilling spiritual experience but also sterilizes the vices in the environment and makes it divine. He explained the manifold significance of Yagna which assures physical, spiritual and intellectual well being which finally leads to Atmiyata and Suhradbhav in the family and society. Swamishree blessed the Yagna mandap with His divine presence for some time and witnessed the proceedings of Yagna at the main havan kund.

In the evening, a Shobha Yatra took place in which the idols of Shri AksharPurushottam Maharaj, Shri RadhaKrishnadev, GuruHari Shastriji Maharaj, GuruHari Yogiji Maharaj and Pragat GuruHari Hariprasadswamiji Maharaj were brought into the temple through a spectacular procession. The "Shobha Yatra" started at 6.30 p.m with a well decorated chariot in which the murtis were placed.

The next day, 21st November 2010 proved to be a remarkable and a very memorable day for all the devotees as the murti pratishtha ceremony took place in the newly constructed temple in the premises of Atmiya Vidya Mandir. In the early morning of the auspicious day of DevDiwali, at 9.00 am, H.D.H. P.P Hariprasadswamiji Maharaj arrived in the Mandir where He was greeted by many devotees. Swamishree began walking up to the mandir dome and stepped up the stairs with His lotus feet.

The rituals of murti pratishtha were being performed under the main dome of the temple. A special seat had been prepared for Swamishree, and around Him sat some 1000 or more well-wishers and senior devotees. The several thousands of other guests and devotees attentively witnessed the proceedings live on giant video screens in the marquee. Swamishree Himself began to perform the prescribed rituals as Brahmins chanted the appropriate Vedic hymns and verses. The chanting and prayers reverberated around the dome, charging the atmosphere with divinity.

Finally, at 10.15 am, Swamishree was requested to enter the sanctum sanctorum and begin the final rituals and prayers that would perfectly consecrate the murtis. Whilst He Himself performed the pratishtha rituals of the murtis of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and Gunatitanand Swamiji in the central sanctum, He requested Param Pujya Aksharvihari Swamiji to do the same for the murtis of GuruHari Shastriji Maharaj and GuruHari Yogiji Maharaj.

In the outer sanctums, the senior saints performed the rituals for the murtis of Shree Hanumanji and Lord Ganesha.

Around 10:30 am, Swamishree, the saints and other guests were given lighted wicks with which to perform the aarti – in front of the deities who were instilled with pran, now fully consecrated in all their royal divinity. The aarti announced to the world the completion of the Vedic ceremonies. The mandir now was no longer just a beautiful inert physical object, but became new, radiated with the infinite divinity and tranquility of God.

After the ceremonies, the curtain to the sanctum was closed and as everyone waited outside, the murtis were clothed in regal splendour and an annakut of hundreds of devotionally prepared dishes were placed artistically before them. This was the first offering to the Lord here!

Swamishree and the guests were then led to the sabha mandap outside the Kothar Bhavan at school cricket ground. The sabha mandap was sanctified with the presence of saints and all the sadhaks from Haridham. The soothing effect of bhajan-kirtan at the beginning of the sabha was perfect to maintain the decorum of such a pious event. Very soon Swamishree arrived and gave His darshan to the thousands of devotees who were eager to have His glimpse. Pujya Sugney Swamiji delivered the ceremonial discourse after the kirtan aradhana. Thereafter, Swamishree was greeted with offering of flowers as all the devotees witnessed it with folded hands. Thereafter dignitaries, officials and respectable personalities present in the function were welcomed. Thereafter, Swamishree blessed the highly dedicated devotees of Bharthana village and those of the Surat area who had toiled day and night to contribute in the functional activities of Atmiya Vidya Mandir and be instrumental in Swamishree’s mission of Atmiyata.

It was followed by a noteworthy speech of Sarthakbhai Jariwala, a student of 11th Science from Atmiya Vidya Mandir who is also the Headboy of the school. Sarthakbhai shared how over the years, they (students of AVM) have been instilled with the feeling of Atmiyata and righteousness. He also shared the fact how Swamiji takes care of them and how Swamiji takes interest in each and every minor detail of the school may it be food, clothes, studies or any other facilities in the school. Sarthakbhai very well explained Swamiji’s vision about the name of the school. As all the students are given this Sutra by Swamishree that they should invoke the God before and after studies which is a sure way to success, thus they study or attain Vidya remaining Atmiya with one another. And it is a befitting feature to make a temple in the school, hence, the name Atmiya Vidya Mandir.

After this heart touching speech of Sarthakbhai, Swamishree blessed the devotees through His paraavani. Swamishree expressed His wish that through Atmya Vidya Mandir He wants to gift the society such eligible individuals who would be devotional, emotionally balanced, intellectually competent and spiritually strong.

Swamishree further said that temple in the school is significant for the concentration of divine energies and vibrations which would keep the students devoid of any vices consequently enabling them to be in a right state of mind to absorb teaching. Thus they will be capable to acquire the qualities of true perception, right judgement, self-mastery, patience, altruism, and unselfishness.

Last but not the least was an amazing speech by Niramaybhai, a student of Grade 2 at Atmiya Vidya Mandir. The devotees had enchanting darshan of Swamiji’s smiling and delightful face expressions while He was listening to Niramaybhai’s speech. In his innocent and sweet voice Niramaybhai said that they are very fortunate that Swamiji started the school from Grade 1 so that right from such a young age they are inculcated with good values. He said that the temple in the school would help them make their heart itself a temple. After the sabha, the devotees moved to have prasad as lunch.

The weather gods were evidently spectator who reserved considerate and ideal conditions that prevailed throughout the festivities but as soon as the sabha was over, the Indradevta showered His grace through heavy downpour on this special event.

Thus, with the inauguration of the temple began a new era for Atmiya Vidya Mandir.

સ્વામીજી આ સ્કૂલ તમે બનાવી એ તમારી અમારા આત્મા પર કરુણા છે...

સ્વામીજી તમે અમને આત્મીયતા શીખવાડી એ તમારી અમારા આત્મા પર કરુણા છે...

સ્વામીજી તમે આ મંદિર બનાવ્યું અને ઠાકોરજી પધરાવ્યા એ તમારી અમારા આત્મા પર કરુણા છે...

તો આજ ના દિવસે તમારા અને સમગ્ર ગુણાતીત પુરુષો ના ચરણો માં પ્રાર્થના કરવી છે કે,

"મંદિર બનાવ્યું આપ બિરાજ્યા, કરવી શું આરાધના. હૃદય મંદિરે કાયમ બિરાજો, ભૂલકા ની છે પ્રાર્થના."

Written by: Seema Madam

Suharadam Murtipratishtha Mahotsav: Live Web Cast

This event will be web cast live, from Atmiya Vidya Mandir on 20th & 21st November 8:30 am onwards Indian Standard Time.

Live Web cast Link: mms://win.1.c2.audiovideoweb.com/1c2winlive6984

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Regards,

Atmiya Vidya Mandir Parivar

Suharadam Murtipratistha Mahotsav Invitation

Pursuing the guided goals: Sundaram House

"I slept and dreamt that life was joy. I awoke and saw that life was duty. I acted and beheld that duty was joy." (Rabindranath Tagore)

Inculcating the sagacity between having right to find pleasure and doing right to become happy, Once again Sundaram House made a humble effort through morning assemblies and display boards to contribute in building characters which are enduring while forged in the furnace of responsibilities which in larger sense become duties.

Students of Atmiya Vidya Mandir are blessed and privileged to have some daily duties guided by P P Hariprasad Swamiji so that they can live an ideal student life which eventually lead them to achieve great success. Sundaram House members have attempted to channelize their activities towards the guided path showed by Him. With a backdrop of thought provoking and noteworthy features of daily duties of an ideal student. The morning assembly stage was well set with an imposing banner of Sundaram house and it’s slogan ‘House Of United Hearts And Unbeatable Spirit’. Along with a magnificent artificial hibiscus (flower) having the daily duties of the students written on its petals.

To begin with the house week, on very first day, Harshil Soni from VIII Std delivered thought about Daily Prayer as an important duty of a student. Extending his thought on the power of prayer and its magical contributions in the student life, Priyavadan Sir gave a brain storming session to the students. He defined the act of saying a prayer and actually praying. Giving some practical tips on communicating with God through daily prayer, Priyavadan Sir suggested students to involve and invoke God’s intervention in all their enterprises.

The next day, it was the time to review the most talked about yet important duty of a student that is completing the home work on day to day basis. Dhimant M Rambhia from IX B shared thought for the day and Seema Madam urged the students to remove the preconceived notions about homework as a burden but to do it for practice and revision. She also explained how doing homework on daily basis can help to adopt habit of regularity and sincerity. The following day, the most sensitive aspect of student life was highlighted which is keeping good company. Sagar N. Patel from IX B spoke thought for the day saying 'It is mandatory for a student to keep good friends who can show him his areas of improvements'. Rupashree Madam elucidated about an ideal living by a student. She said that a student should help his class fellows in solving their educational problems. He should be sincere, hard-working and co-operative. He should wear neat and clean dress. He should also know his religious duties.

Yet another and must-practice-it-now and always duty of the student is to keep his senses positive all the time. Arpit Trapasia from VII B presented food for thought that it is our duty to keep our internal- self neat and pure by receiving only the appropriate things through our senses. We should not see, hear, smell, speak and even think about the matter which is not of any worth. Speaking on the same topic, Anand Kalawadia from X Std shared his thoughts on this most obvious duty of keeping the senses positive, it is one of the highly recommended duties given by P.P Swamiji. He also provided reference of Vachanamrut (Gadhada Pratham 18) presenting its practical relevance and amazing outcome.

P.P Swamiji is always concerned about bringing up of the students of Atmiya Vidya Mandir. Time to time He guides the students and teachers to perform some important daily duties which lead to sure ways of happiness and success. Duties given by Him are obvious to churn out the students who will be accountable family members, responsible citizens and above all loyal attendant of moral duties.

During the creative assembly of Sundaram House, the action dance was on the song Swami dada ni vaat na bhulai performed by students of junior group depicting the duties of students recommended by P.P . Swamiji.

Students of Atmiya Vidya Mandir just not try to perform these duties given by P.P Swamiji but adopt them as a habit .One fine example of the same was presented by the students of class 2 based on the true incident happened at Atmiya Vidya Mandir when Niramaybhai Mehta of Class 2 was performing his duty sincerely.

Senior students also presented a skit which showcased an informal interaction among students at hostel (role played by Sunny, Niral and Meet Chug of IX Std, Deep and Akshay of XI Std) which conveyed the message that we should be committed to follow our daily duties and moral obligations without knowing about other’s concern towards the same. Thus the creative assembly of Sundaram house was an urge to convince the students to change their focus from the effort they take to do their duties to the pleasure they can experience on its completion.

The Soft board theme was ‘India’s contribution to the world in Science and Mathematics’. Adequate information about the Indian genius (Aryabhatta, Bhaskaracharya, Shakuntala Devi, Shushrut, C.V Raman and Charak) was well presented and finely laid upon the petals of an imposing flower made up of origami paper. Through these displays, students acknowledged the worth and significance of Indian talent which catered a feeling of being proud to be an Indian.

Thus Sundaram House jog the memory of the students on the duties prescribed by P.P.Swamiji that they should be respectful towards their parents as well as their teacher. They should always seek knowledge from teachers. They should complete their home work in time. They should be punctual. If they are confused about any topic they should ask their teachers about that topic.

Food for thought by Sundaram House: Duty unto death to live an eternal life………..

Written by: Seema Madam

Bidding Adieu to Lord Ganesha

Harmonized with unusual blend of festive fervor (Ganesh Chaturthi) and academic persuasion (Trial Exams), students of Atmiya Vidya Mandir were once again set to pray and procure the benediction. The pious prayer hall of school became the ad hoc holy abode of lord Gnash when an imposing idol of this elephant headed deity was placed on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi.

Throughout the five days of the celebration of the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesh, during the evening prayer, the prayer hall area of the school was conspicuous with the sight of students, teachers, housemasters, didis and other members of Atmiya family, giving off a general aura of faith and fun. They remained engaged in observing and witnessing with folded hands - the rituals being performed by the Sanskrit teacher Pushpak Sir who was chanting Vedic Mantras in front of the idol.

Besides its religious sanctity, this five day festival played an important role as students were able to perceive impeccable harmony while participating in daily prayer, aarti and bhajan. They were all set to take fresh spiritual resolves and pray to Lord Ganesha for inner spiritual strength to attain success in all their undertakings.

Each day in Atmiya Vidya Mandir brings a new experience with a new learning. Rejoicing with such festive celebration students get an opportunity to understand culture through religious ceremonies and adopt holistic development with a spurt of balancing act while walking on the tight rope finely woven with academics, values and convictions.

Students find the much celebrated form of the Lord Ganesha intriguing with an elephant head and a with a pot belly. During the evening prayer, through Vedic Mantras, their Sanskrit teacher Shri Pushpak Joshi explained them the inner meaning of Lord Ganesha's form - the elephant’s head is considered to be the biggest which teaches to become broad minded. The small eyes inspire far sightedness. The big swaying ears conveys message of being a good listener. The strongest yet sensitive trunk teaches to be strong towards our beliefs but at the same time be gentle to other people’s emotions. Above all, Lord Ganesha is symbol of a devotional, responsible and an ideal son.

Despite long period of studies, festivals retain their uniqueness in Atmiya Vidya Mandir and are celebrated with deep devoutness. Throughout these five days of Lord Ganesha’s birth anniversary celebration, students participated in daily pooja of the elephant headed God which offered them an insight that religious rites and rituals have created connections to universal truths that are shared in every culture.

This five day festive fervor put to hold with immersion of the idol of lord Ganesha into a nearby holy river. Students, teachers and entire Atmiya family congregated to see off the lord back to His eternal abode, with a wish for His early and sure return. On this auspicious occasion let’s pray-

May the blessings of Sri Ganesha be upon us all!


May He remove all the obstacles that stand in our spiritual path!


May He bestow on us prosperity as well as renders stillness to the mind enabling us to be choicest children of the eternal father!!!

Written by: Seema Madam

Teachers! its just not a Day

A day that is dedicated to the inspirers bridging possibilities and achievements! A day which is outcome of the unique glory of relationship bountiful and submerged with unbeatable affection! A day being celebrated for those who align the inherent talent in making dreams and desires real! A day for re-defining feelings for teachers.

Driven by pristine emotions and affection for their teachers, students of Atmiya Vidya Mandir acquired event management skills overnight. The event was Teacher’s day celebration and students gave their sweat and soul to host a memorable evening for their Teachers, House masters, Didis and other members of the school. Dressed up in elegant and formal wears, students took up the roles of perfects hosts, in keeping with the school theme quite sensibly.

It was much beyond the imagination to find the students putting their earnest efforts to reciprocate the love and affection of teachers. A memorable programme was organized to honor teachers in fullest with most powerful expression. Bestowing it with dignity and enriching it with a deeper sense of respect, they welcomed the teachers by doing poojan and showering flowers on them.

Nothing happens beyond the reach of almighty, having been well instilled with this belief, they began the programme by inviting the elders of the school management to do the poojan of Thakorji .

The gusty and feisty show holders Mantvya Patel and Bhadra Parekh were right at the nook much like well trained professional hosts with their witty remarks, humorous expressions and some glimpses of poetic flourishes for their beloved teachers. They were able to maintain an enticing blend of devious humour and warmth of extreme regard and fondness for the guests of the show.

Joyous mood swept across the venue of the programme, as the fire of this noteworthy evening was set by the first performance of solo singing by Karan Bhakta singing a touching song "Tumse Hi". This track just arrested the attention of the audience off their feet as he attempted some artistic brilliance. Karan sang wholeheartedly to showcase his soulful voice with supporting phenomenal music projecting an influential symphony. To ultimately take the audience by storm, there were dancers (Love Patel, Harshit Agrawal, Umang Mistry, Suraj Yadav, Krushan Patel, Vaishvik Maisurya, Vaishvik Patel) doing a jig in the backdrop giving a mesmerizing performance. The budding choreographers Piyush Sarda and Harsh Ambalia took initiative to add this concept of backdrop dancing with an effort to do something special for their pioneers (teachers). This special appearance of this heart- to -heart act created an evening that can never be forgotten.

Characteristically making the show intimate enough, the hosts, Bhadra and Mantavya left no chance to convey their message to their beloved teachers and to do the same, with enticing queries, they moved around the audience asking the jubilant students to say a few words about their favourite teachers. It was prominently a heart touching approach, depicting an idea of respecting teachers. Truly ensconced itself in the statements as some of them expressed meaning of a teacher which goes beyond the dictionary limit. Announcing their favourite teachers amicably even with some heart-touching reference students were able to ferrets out admiration for their teachers. Abhishek from XI Sci and Manav from X Std stated “Our teachers help us to make choices more empowered with values”. A senior student stated his feeling for his teacher “Right from pre-primary ,we have been benefited by our teachers who have gone beyond their call of duty, to mould us into better human beings, first and foremost, and then to instil in us a sense of purpose for life.”

This was followed by the groundbreaking dance performance by IX and X Std students (Harsh Ambalia, Smeet Bhatt, Deval Patel, Mishal Kansara, Vinay Rathi, Siddharth Shah, Akshay Patel) ‘Everything will be alright’ - something that was widely requested by the loyal fans of these ‘smashing dancers’ who displayed scintillating performances. These students offered an unmatched diversity of styles, making for a fast-paced, electrifying one-of-a-kind performance that never ceased to surprise the teachers. They were able to take up all contemporary style, while the music spans the breadth and depth of all that’s possible. Every dancer added his unique move like somersaults and free falls which were particularly noteworthy and must surely have momentarily provided the performers with a completely new angle of felicitating or honouring teachers. These dancers of the budding choreographer Siddharth Shah (XI Science) who channelized their energy and enthusiasm which was executed at a high magnitude that teachers were fully impressed with. All the sequences and moves were blended harmoniously with the beat of the music.

With the perfect decorum of the surroundings of prayer hall, teachers couldn’t escape the charm of the evening. The hosts left no chance to make the audience giggling away with some witty remarks.

Saturated in convincing scenes of teacher-student bonding, the next appealing presentation was a small skit (Conceptualized by Saumya Madam and directed by Pravartak Sir and Tarun Sir and performed by Sarveshvar, Rushi, Akshat, Harsh, Ashish, Raj, Ronak and Kishan Viradia). It illustrated inherent events and moments of teacher-student tie, hard to untangle, sort of Tom and Jerry bond. The characters were at ease posing and preening to get under the skin of the roles. The stage had a dramatic tint with a backdrop sound- effect of a moving train. The music had crystal clear dramatic effects. Characters enacted and rocked the stage with a spoof which had a preaching climax with a message of unparalleled patience and understanding - a teacher possesses.

The sustenance of education was palpable in the conduct of these students who left no effort to make the show grand. Teachers were spell bound and overwhelmed and remained glued to their seats throughout the programme.

Captured in leisurely yet with convincing grace, once again it was the time for the hosts to be among the audience to know more about what they think for their teachers. Het Adhvaryu (VIII A) said “My teacher helps me to get ready to become more intimate with myself and my world.” Another student offers a similar appreciation: "My teacher is always kind and makes me feel so at ease whenever I go to him with questions."

Speaking on the occasion, the Principal Swayam Madam extended her thanks to the teachers and students. She also appreciated the students for their intense, passionate and vibrant performances showcasing their sheer creativity and sublime joy to perform for their teachers.

On this day , students expressed their indebtedness by presenting greeting cards to all the teachers individually having their qualities printed on it, Students got an opportunity to exhibit their privilege to be taught and guided by such teachers but the arrangements of this wonderful evening force the teachers to be proud of them.

The most charming and impressive part of this evening was the sumptuous candle light dinner being served by 11th Std students with warmth and regards. This event also proved a spectacular display of adoration and split-second precision with which each student went through his paces reflecting the caring attitude they have acquired so far. This, too, was an event of considerable merit earning the acclaim of all the teachers and staff members who beheld it. The teachers were at relish seeing their efforts turning their students into perfect hosts and event managers.

Finally, after witnessing these touching outpourings, it is inevitable to say that students of Atmiya Vidya Mandir are growing with sixth sense.

Written by: Seema Madam

I, We and India

India is our pride and we are proud to be Indian!

Considering this line as the foundation of our being, Shivam House celebrated the week with the value -Patriotism. The value - Patriotism was cherished in three levels i.e. Personal, Social and National.

The Personal level Patriotism was elaborated through Soft Board decoration.

‘Ocean is a collective form of an individual drop’.

 With this analogy, every drop represents ocean. Similarly, every individual of India represents India. Being a part of great nation - India, everyone feels himself responsible for anything happening around and thus binds himself with the feeling of Team India. To experience this message, the soft board had logos of different organizations, which conveyed some inspiring messages or represented some values in life that contributed to the development of India as a whole. We also had accidental discoveries section. The students researched on the topics and came up with many interesting details, which gave India a new pathway to attain sophisticated technology.

The Social level Patriotism was elaborated through audio-visual tools in daily assembly.

Every human is a social animal and thus being loyal and sincere to his society is one of the most important aspects of patriotism. Making India proud of being a united nation with so many diversities, the importance of every state of India was narrated in daily assembly. Students were also encouraged to become good social humans by making the judicious use of resources, scoring high grades by studying sincerely, leading the mass by being proactive and many more such messages were conveyed in daily assembly with the help of audio visual tools. Everyday a presentation was projected to impart the values of Patriotism in daily life. To enhance the social domain of the students, social well-being and life skills were experienced through stage decoration.

The National level Patriotism was elaborated through the presentation and stage performance in creative assembly.

In order to pay a tribute to the freedom fighters our Nation, creative assembly of Shivam House was designed with the small skit having a combination of dance and drama depicting the life and sacrifice of freedom fighters from Mangal Pandey to Mahatma Gandhi. The Junior group students were dressed up such that they represented all the national symbols of India. They walked up one by one and conveyed the meaning and importance of all the national symbols of India. The importance and significance of National Flag and National Anthem were addressed to by the students.

The success of the week is not all the things mentioned above, it was just an exposure to the students but the real success is that students themselves got involved in all the activities starting from the preparation to the last presentation. The ultimate idea, of celebrating the week, acquired its meaningful shape when boys were in tears while watching the play on freedom fighters.

Let us be United, let us be Atmiya and let India flourish with all it has.

Written by: Chirag Sir

Is Exam really a matter of concern?

Every exam gives you an opportunity to prepare, to plan, to overcome your shortcomings so that you are well prepared for the problem next time.

At every level subject changes, but what doesn’t change is the skill that you learn to tackle the (Challenge) problem.

More educated you are lesser chance of failing in future challenges.

Education and success is not one time achievement, it is a journey that one lives and influences others.

Education does not guarantee you employment of a business empire, but guarantees happiness regardless wherever you are, whatever you do.

By

Just pass.

 

Written by: Shailendra Sir

Human Pyramid & MatkiPhod: Load of fun on small shoulders

Much like an epicentre of the bursting zeal seemed to be the administrative building ground of Atmiya Vidya Mandir which was decked up with cheering gathering and dancing kids who were bubbling with an unsynchronized randomness that was positively fun filled.

It was Janmashtami celebration and here were mischievous Bal-Gopals of Atmiya Vidya Mandir, energized by some power unseen, all acting in clique, but somehow connected to each other in a giant plan. A large swathe of area around administrative building ground was bustling with joy and fervour, celebrating Janmashtami -- the birthday of Lord Krishna - who is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

The day began with the morning assembly by Suhradam House, showcasing a short video on birth and childhood of Lord Krishna and a brief speech delivered by Nishit Banka of VIII explaining the importance and sanctity of the festival.

The DahiHandi or an earthen pot filled with curd, honey and sweet was positioned at three different level of convenient height for different group of students. The Dahi-Handi was suspended with a rope tied at seemingly approachable height. A surge of sheer energy and balance, A tide of students was to form human pyramids. Sprightly chaps trying hard to make a human pyramid at Admin field to reach the DahiHandi, they were rising and tumbling down again and again, braving the showers of water splashed at them from the top. It was overwhelming to see that they were attentively cushioned and held by the teachers and house masters guarding around.

The topmost student on this human pyramid was to break the Handi by hitting it with a coconut placed on the pot, and when that happened, the buttermilk was spilled over the entire group, symbolizing their achievement through unity.

The participants in human pyramid in the DahiHandi were from V to XI std. Other students kept cheering and encouraging which motivated the performers to keep going. Apart from the students, who struggled to build the pyramid for breaking the Handi, the little Aman D Patel from std I was the show stealer who sat on the top of the portable structure dressing up to replicate the Lord Krishna. Saints from Haridham, teachers, housemasters and didis were present to witness the programme and cheer the Gopalas. When the Matki was finally broken by the senior group, a resounding cheer came from the crowd, thus bringing a fitting climax to the celebration.

Keeping the Indian custom alive, Atmiya Vidya Mandir celebrates all the festivals with zest and zeal. Our aim is to make children appreciate the rich culture of our nation which has a number of festivals, castes and religions. Celebration of festivals in such a manner infuses values and virtues pertaining to our long tradition among the future citizens of the country.

The entire school was actively involved in the event, contributing their share in some way or the other. The young kids who formed the human pyramid had practiced a lot a fortnight prior to the actual demonstration. Teachers and staff members guided the little Gopalas to execute the final show.

So for all the students of Atmiya Vidya Mandir who would be reaching greater heights and achieve together; here are some wishes -

• May they hold up the human pyramid with fine balance of Atmiyata and Suhradbhav!
• May they ever offer their shoulders to their brothers to achieve a great height of success!
• May they taste the sweet buttermilk of success!

May the Lord Krishna bless all!!!

Written by: Seema Madam

Satyam House Chooses To Be Proactive

”Being Proactive is about taking responsibility for your life. You can't keep blaming everything on your parents or grandparents. Proactive people recognize that they are "response-able." They don't blame genetics, circumstances, conditions, or conditioning for their behavior. They know they choose their behavior.”

Being Proactive – as the value for the creative assembly, Satyam House commenced the yet another round of celebrating creative assemblies and decorating display boards.

For Display Boards, the theme, this time, was Cartoons – the history of cartoons, e.g. Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Spiderman, Superman, Batman, Tom & Jerry, Goofy, and many more. Students were highly excited to learn about the cartoons. Moreover, students, right from Grade I to XI, drew the sketches of different cartoons, coloured them, displayed them and passed a message through them. It was a great fun, indeed.

In the General assemblies, from Tuesday to Friday, students shared the thoughts for the day, News and Amazing Facts. Apart from this, students and teachers addressed the assembly on different values such as Being Proactive, Duty, & Patriotism. Besides, different videos and presentations were shown on these values so that students can enjoy while they learn.

One of the general assemblies, which was liked the most by all the students was on Thursday, when they were shown a presentation on the life of Walt Disney and his works before he became a great success by making Mickey Mouse and The Disney World Resorts. They loved to know that the great success story of Walt Disney began with a little mouse – Mickey. Through this, the message – Dreams Come True was conveyed to the students.

On Saturday morning, which is the most awaited morning for all the students, Satyam House presented the Creative Assembly on the Value – Being Proactive. Two students, Harshbhai (8B) and Joybhai (5B) presented a power point presentation (in the form of a dialogue) and two videos on how one can benefit by choosing a proactive way to life. Here, two small incidences of Being Proactive from the life of Gandhiji when he was thrown out of the first class compartment in South Africa; and from the life of H. D. H. Swamiji when he was spat on for a number of times when he came out of the river after bathing and how H. D. H. Swamiji without reacting went for taking bath every time he was spat on by a mad person until his mouth started bleeding.

Not only the students but even teachers were inspired by these incidences.

Written by: Paras Sir

Students' Photography

I am for my country

The founder of Atmiya Vidya Mandir H D H Hariprasad Swamiji Maharaj says that every child should be first and foremost a true patriot. Exhibiting this conviction loud and clear, all members of Atmiya Vidya Mandir celebrated the 64TH Independence Day with gaiety and fervor. The exquisite stage decoration with tricolor fabrics and flower arrangements was not only creating a perfect environment for the solemn celebration but also communicating the enthusiasm of Atmiya family to make it grand.

The celebration commenced with recitation of a few patriotic verses by the anchor of the show Yash Pachhigar, the Vice Headboy. The honorable guests Mr. Pavan Kumar who is the external faculty for Science from Vision IIT and Fuaji (Mr. V.D Patel) were invited on the stage to hoist the flag. It was followed by singing of the national anthem and national song.

Mr. Pavan Kumar addressed the students wishing everyone on the occasion of this National Festival. He reminded students that everyone has to do their bit to take the country ahead on the path of progress. Through his speech, he conveyed this important message that freedom does not mean absence of rules and regulations, he explained the students that freedom means bearing responsibility as a part, not wholly or in full measure, but very substantially.

Students of Std III and IV displayed a spectacular show of mass drill, the audience was amazed to see their synchronization. Moreover, students of Std V, VI and VII were equally stunning while moving perfectly using hand and body gestures to accompany the song lyrics ‘ ………is mitti ko tilak karo, Ye dharti hai balidan ki’.

The next event, but certainly the best event of the day was the formation of Pyramids by the students of Std. VIII, IX, X AND XI. Well trained by the P.T. Masters, with the beat of the music, the boys rolled and curled, transforming themselves into blocks of little Pyramids. Their team work was symbolic of perfect coordination wherein every link is vital. The show was applauded.

To add flavor of great patriotism to these enthusiastic students, Pranav Sir sang a stirring, thrilling and rousing song ‘Mere desh ki dharti’. After this, Fuaji (Mr. V.D Patel), in his speech appreciated everybody’s effort to make the celebration splendid. He also persuaded the students with example of Dr Verghese Kurien (Father of the White Revolution in India) for preparing themselves to contribute in the growth of the country. The critical task of putting these zeal clad performers in sequential positions was accomplished by Prabhudarshan Sir and Ritesh Sir, as they were the judges.

The Triumphant heroes of the day were the Suhradams - the Orange House students. Immaterial of winning or losing, various performances did bring the boys together in a spirit of brotherhood and patriotism. The bonds of brotherhood were strengthened once again in honour of Independence Day.

The eventful day came to a glorious end with the rendition of the National Anthem sung in unison with gusto.

The programme concluded with the distribution of sweets.

Written by: Seema Madam

The Merchant of Venice of William Shakespeare By “All-Star Production”

The Merchant of Venice is classified as an early Shakespearean comedy, more specifically, as a "Christian comedy” and it is a work in which good triumphs over evil.

For Grade XI - Science and Commerce, the new academic year began by performing this most appreciated and loved play of William Shakespeare – The Merchant of Venice. It was a great learning experience for all the students of Grade XI. Right from the time the play was introduced, read, analysed and understood there was no end to their excitement. Each and every student of XI - Science and Commerce appealed to let them stage the play.

Everything was professionally planned and the work began. They named themselves professionally as “All-Star Production”. The Directors, Co-directors, Editors, Costume Designers, and Music Director were appointed. Then started the audition for the casts of the play. After taking the audition the following were selected as the casts of the play:

Antonio - Kishan Viradia

Bassanio - Bhadra N. Parikh

Portia - Atmiya K. Patel

Shylock - Jay Tailor

Gratiano - Siddharth Shah

Lorenzo - Sarveshwar Viroja

Nerissa - Roneet Chaudhary

Jessica - Kishan A. Patel

The Prince of Morroco - Anand V. Patel

Tubal - Harsh Patel

Salarion & Saliano - Hitesh Yadav & Mitul Patel

Servants - Ashish Pandey & Dipen Reshamwala

Dukes of Venice - Sarthak Jariwala, Karan Patel, Mihirbhai

Lawyer - Rushi Patel

Doctor Balthasar - Atmiya K. Patel

Director - Sarthak Jariwala

Co-Director - Kishan A. Patel

Narrator - Mantavya Patel

Music Director - Abhishek Rathore

Costume Designers - Robin Patel & Suharadam Nayak Sir

Property Managers - Krunal Vakil, Gavravbhai, Atmiya Kalavadia, Robin Patel, Ravi Patel

Students learnt many things apart from relishing the Shakespearean English. For example,

1. Friendship requires sacrifice. Antonio risks his fortune–and later his life–to help Bassanio win Portia.

2. Appearances are deceiving. Neither the gold nor the silver casket contains the key to winning Portia. Instead, it is the plain lead casket. Shakespeare expresses this theme–appearances are deceiving–in a message inside the golden casket. It says, “All that glisters [glitters] is not gold”.

3. Revenge ultimately destroys its perpetrator. Shylock seeks revenge against his enemies, but it is he who suffers the downfall after Christians unite to trick him. Perhaps he would have had more success if he had pursued justice instead of revenge.

4. Jews suffer bigotry and other forms of mistreatment because of their religion and race. Christians alienate Shylock simply because he is a Jew. In ancient, medieval, and Renaissance times, Jews almost always encountered prejudice from non-Jews around them. (Helped in enhancing students’ knowledge of the rivalry between the Jews and the Christian)

5. Women can be just as competent as men, maybe even more so. Portia, disguised as a man, speaks eloquently in defense of Antonio and persuades the Duke of Venice to rule in Antonio's favor.

Moreover, they learnt that the real evil in The Merchant of Venice was the corrupt value system of the principal Christian characters who are, of course, representative of people in Shakespeare’s time.

After all the learning, analysis, preparation and rehearsal, the play was professionally staged on 27th July, 2010 in the Auditorium of the school in front of the students of Grade VIII, IX & X and all the Teachers, the Principal, the Housemasters and the Hostel In-charges.

The best thing about performing “The Merchant of Venice” was that each and every student of Grade XI participated wholeheartedly in one or the other roles. They enjoyed every moment of it right from the introduction of the play till its final performance on the stage.

Hopefully, everybody enjoyed the play to their heart’s content.

Written by: Paras Sir

Sunset in Vav

Photograph taken by Manish Sir from his camera in his native Vav

 

 

On the Zenith, with Science

“If you love me, give me wings. Don't be afraid if I fly” students of Atmiya Vidya Mandir are one with this feeling paradoxically it’s all about aeronautics and aerospace.

There is a power in hands-on learning and Atmiya Vidya Mandir has adopted the same approach to not only equip the students with knowledge but also prepare them to apply it in real life situations. A group of self-motivated students of the Department of Aerospace Engineering (UDAAN) at IIT-Mumbai were invited in the school to conduct a workshop cum interactive session on various aspects of Aerospace engineering. UDAAN is an outreach programme run by the IIT to inspire children.

Now students of Atmiya Vidya Mandir will no more find wind blowing things like kites and flags unfathomable, as they were exposed to a comprehensive practical approach to understand this theory. How is it possible that heavy airplanes are supported by air high above the ground? Students of Atmiya Vidya Mandir can answer this question as they were guided and edified on various skills and theories of aeronautics by a team of enthusiastic IITians and senior students of B. Tech. Aerospace engineering named Naresh Ponnana, Viren Timble, Rajat Chakraborty, Asger Ali and Anand Pratap.

These aerospace engineers brought science to students in the form of adventure and thrill that acquainted them with the concept of aeronautics. From Std VII, IX and X near around fifty students were chosen randomly to participate in the workshop. It started at 10:30 am on 8th August - Sunday and lasted till 9:30 pm.

The day began with watching a video show of breath taking stunts of fighter planes, heart stopping moments of air crash. Students were fortunate enough to get acquainted with experiences of Sunita Williams’ in space through this video which arrested their imagination. Then followed a highly interactive session on the physics of aeromodelling. The session continued with the paper plane model making workshop after which there was a lengthy discussion on career guidance with the 10th and 11th standard students for almost an hour and a half . Students were benefited as they shared their personal experiences as IIT aspirants and being an IITian. They gave some really insightful tips about preparing for the IIT-JEE (Indian Institute of Technology - Joint Entrance Exam).

After the lunch break, one batch of students participated in the Balsa wood Glider making workshop. Students' creativity was at optimum and they were captivated while making miniature aircrafts with their instructions and watching them fly with an understanding of the whole process.

Meanwhile, the other batch of students got hands-on experience on the flight simulator the same software used by pilots for training purposes.

A small break for snacks followed after which the UDAAN team demonstrated water rocketry explaining the students how a rocket can be flown using water as fuel!!! It was quite an exciting time witnessing a water rocket. The two batches of students then exchanged their places and each ended up having an intriguing insight into the world of flying by the end of the day.

They conducted a Quiz on aerospace related concepts and facts after the workshop and gave away prizes to the winners of the quiz. The day concluded with a presentation on career options in Aerospace Engineering.

Some reactions of the students at the end of the workshop:

• "Sir, this was the best day of my life!"
• "We didn't know IIT was such a huge place and offered so many opportunities to grow in every aspect."
• "They have a very friendly attitude. Generally, we don't like workshop, but they conducted it in such a manner that we really enjoyed it."

Some reactions from teachers:

• "The interaction between the team and the students was the best part as that certainly will go a long way in inspiring them to work hard to achieve their goals in life."
• "Sharing your experience regarding preparation for IIT-JEE and also about life at IIT was really inspiring."
• "You could sense the 'never say die' spirit in all the members as they didn't seem tired at all even after such a long, involving day. They were extremely clear in their heads about what they wanted to achieve."

Through this workshop they inspired a new generation of future global scientists (Students of Atmiya Vidya Mandir) who can now be seen in the school campus flying a handmade aircraft, living with the concept of going against the forces which pulls you down, defying the gravity and touch the sky.

Written by: Seema Madam