St Aloysius Gonzaga School celebrated the 79th Independence Day on 15 August 2025 with immense enthusiasm and patriotic fervour. The event was graced by the Chief Guest, Lt Colonel R. P. Rai, Commanding Officer of the 18 Karnataka Battalion NCC, Indian Army. Principal Fr Rohan D Almeida SJ and Vice Principals Ms Laurel D’Souza and Ms Aparna Suresh also presided over the occasion.
In his address, the Chief Guest spoke on the significance of independence over dependence, drawing from his own experiences in school and in the military. He encouraged Gonzagaites to join the NCC, stressing that it provides a valuable platform to cultivate resilience, unity, and discipline.
The Principal, Fr Rohan D Almeida SJ, in his inspiring message, beautifully expressed that Indianness flows in our very veins, binding us with an unbreakable love for our motherland. He reminded everyone that though we speak different languages and embrace varied cultures and traditions, our diversity remains our greatest strength—uniting us as one nation, one people, one India.
Lt Colonel R. P. Rai was felicitated by the Principal and Vice Principals in recognition of his unwavering dedication to the nation and his exemplary discipline in service to the Indian Army. This was followed by the prize distribution ceremony for various competitions conducted in connection with Independence Day.
The dignitaries were escorted to the venue by the NCC Cadets. The ceremonial hoisting of the tricolour marked the commencement of the celebration, followed by a spirited cultural programme beautifully portraying the inspiring journey of India, from the struggles of the past to the glory of the present. Sweets were distributed to all the students.
The programme was compered by Rhea Jessica Rego and Rehan of Class XI. Whalane Marona Serrao of Class IX C welcomed the gathering, while Yanis Orvin D Almeida of Class V D proposed the vote of thanks. The event was meticulously coordinated by Ms Teena Elizabeth Abraham and Ms Shamitha Shetty.
The day served as a poignant reminder of the countless sacrifices made by the brave souls who laid down their lives to secure India’s freedom.
