Parle Tilak Vidyalaya English Medium School, Secondary Section, Vile Parle

‘A nation grows stronger when its citizens turn freedom into responsibility, dreams into action, and values into everyday choices.’

The 80th Independence Day of our beloved nation was celebrated on 15th August 2026 with great pride and patriotic fervour at Parle Tilak Vidyalaya English Medium School, Secondary Section, Vile Parle, under the inspiring theme ‘Honouring Freedom, Inspiring the Future.’ The celebration brought together the staff and students in a spirit of patriotism, unity and national pride.

The programme was compered by Mrs. Radhika Dalal, who conducted the proceedings with grace and enthusiasm. It commenced with prayers, followed by the flag-hoisting ceremony by Headmistress Mrs. Smita Biwalkar. The National Anthem was sung with pride and reverence, filling the atmosphere with a strong sense of national unity.

Adding to the patriotic spirit, ‘Vande Mataram’ was sung in its entirety, led by Music Teacher Mrs. Vrushali Virkar.

The celebrations continued with an energetic Mass PT presentation by the students, showcasing discipline, coordination, teamwork and enthusiasm. The students were ably trained by the Physical Education teachers, Mr. Jitendra Patil and Mr. Paresh Ipte.

As part of the Independence Day celebrations, the school had also organised a special Tiranga and Vande Mataram Exhibition on 14th August 2026 in the school hall, highlighting 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’ and the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ initiative. The exhibition beautifully showcased the significance of the National Flag, the journey of Vande Mataram and the enduring spirit of patriotism.

An inspiring address by Mrs. Anuradha Phatak reminded students that India’s freedom was won through immense courage and sacrifice. She urged them to face today’s challenges with integrity, empathy and responsibility, stressing that true patriotism lies in using freedom wisely and contributing positively to the nation.

Following the address, the students took the Literacy Pledge, resolving to help family members, friends and others acquire basic reading, writing and numeracy skills. They pledged to support at least two persons in becoming literate and contribute towards the vision of making Maharashtra fully literate.

Music added a melodious touch to the celebration. Under the guidance of Music Teacher Mrs. Vrushali Virkar, the School Choir presented the patriotic song ‘Aao Bachcho Tumhe Dikhaye Jhanki Hindustan Ki’, filling the atmosphere with enthusiasm and love for the motherland.

Creativity and patriotism were further celebrated through the Drawing Competition, Darpan competitions, Viksit Bharat Essay Writing Competition and Board Decoration Competition. The prize distribution ceremony recognised students for their creativity, imagination and thoughtful expression, and the winners were felicitated by Headmistress Mrs. Smita Biwalkar.

The entire school wore a festive and patriotic look, with beautifully decorated classroom boards and notice boards prepared by the students under the guidance of the Art Teachers, Mrs. Geetanjali Mahale and Mr. Vithal Chavan. The colourful displays added vibrancy to the celebration and reflected the students’ creativity and love for the nation.

The programme concluded with the distribution of sweets and a soulful rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’. The celebration served as a meaningful reminder that the greatest tribute to our freedom fighters is not merely to celebrate freedom, but to use it responsibly and work towards making India kinder, wiser, stronger and more humane.

The celebration was a beautiful blend of patriotism, discipline, creativity, responsibility and national pride, inspiring every student to become a responsible citizen and contribute towards the progress of our nation.

Jai Hind!