The campus came alive in saffron, white, and green. Flags fluttered in the breeze, the steady beat of drums echoed across the grounds, and the air buzzed with both pride and anticipation.
The morning began with Tamil Thai Vazhthu, our state anthem, followed by the school prayer and school song. These moments, though familiar, felt special and reminded us that education and culture together shape who we are. The welcome address by CSPL set the tone, brimming with warmth and anticipation.
Then came the highlight of every Independence Day: the flag hoisting. As the tricolour unfurled, the crowd erupted into applause, and voices rose together in the Flag Salute. The atmosphere was electric. Patriotism was not just felt, it was lived in that instant. This was followed by the National Anthem, the National Pledge, and the iconic Flag Song - “Thaayin Mani Kodi Paareer”, a melody that urges us to safeguard the flag as our mother’s own treasure.
Our students made the day more than ceremonial; they made it thought-provoking.
This year, we were privileged to be joined by Lt. Col. Abhilash Singh Senger of the Indian Army as our Chief Guest. His presence was an honour in itself, and his words left a deep impression on every student, teacher, and parent present. His message was simple yet profound: - Students are the future of the nation. - Serving the nation is not limited to any particular field. - Educating yourself with dedication and commitment is also a form of service. - Freedom is not free. It is earned, kept, and honoured every day.
The most memorable part of the celebration was the interaction between Lt. Col. Senger and the audience. Students, parents, and alumni asked questions that revealed not just his experiences but the spirit of the armed forces itself. He spoke of Operation Sindoor, describing it as a nationwide success and a reminder that in the army there is no separation, only unity. He explained his role in training soldiers in English, communication, and navigation, showing how even skills beyond the battlefield are vital to service. When asked what inspired him to join, he recalled watching the series Param Vir Chakra as a child and being moved by the sacrifices of soldiers. On challenges, he admitted training was tough and language barriers real, but perseverance and teamwork made service smoother. He demystified the SSB interview, calling it a test of personality rather than memorised knowledge, focused on family, education, and clarity of thought. He highlighted how research and counselling play a crucial role in helping soldiers manage stress, with institutions like DIPR dedicated to the cause. The audience was struck by his honesty. Group tasks, he said, were easier than individual ones because the army thrives on unity. He broke the misconception that the army is only “dangerous,” instead describing it as purposeful and rewarding. Perhaps the most powerful moment came when he spoke of his posting at Drass, where temperatures dipped to –65°C. Even there, at the Line of Control, the challenge was met with pride, not complaint.
The audience was deeply moved, especially when he said:
Serving the nation is not always about wearing a uniform. Every honest effort—from a classroom to a battlefield—adds to the strength of our country.
The emotion that lingered was one of pride, commitment, and responsibility. This Independence Day was not only about looking back with gratitude. It was about looking ahead with purpose. The tricolour does not just wave above us; it must live within us, in every act of honesty, every step of perseverance, and every pledge of commitment.
