Founders’ Day

As with every passing year, the first morning of June arrives—bright, golden, and gently warm. Yet, unlike any ordinary lazy summer dawn, boys and girls are already astir. There’s a quiet urgency in the air: fresh faces, nimble movements, small preparations for the grand finale. Every step carries a spark, every child brims with anticipation, eager for their moment to shine. Parents gather with pride, some with an extra gleam of triumph if their child graces more than one stage. Their confidence in sending their little ones to this secluded hillside sanctuary feels reaffirmed today.

This day is the culmination of months of toil—sweat, tears, and sometimes even blood—all converging into one magnificent celebration. The first sight that stirs the heart is the long stream of white uniforms, punctuated with maroon, as children descend from the three slopes—GS, JS, and BS—into the Valley. Soon follow the costumed performers, guided by their mentors: GS with bamboo dances and special acts, JS with vibrant, multicultural spectacles, and BS with their daring pyramids, yoga feats, and fiery leaps (where boys, sometimes bleeding, wore their wounds like badges to impress the girls!). From above, the Valley is a breathtaking canvas—lush green, adorned with decorations, the Pushtas cleared for the parents’ pavilion, and the entire Jharipani community gathered to cheer. Every applause, every encouraging shout, even for a stumble, carries warmth. The dignitaries’ canopy gleams, the children’s seating polished, and at the heart lies the pitch—precisely marked, shimmering with Choona.

This is the moment to honor the unsung heroes behind the spectacle. Foremost, the 4th Class Staff—rising before dawn, preparing the Valley, working tirelessly without supervision. Their devotion is pure, driven only by the joy of watching us shine. The younger BS classes shoulder heavy tasks too—lugging benches, hauling props, arranging the Valley with strength and spirit. Gratitude flows to Classes VI, VII, and VIII. And then, to the Principal, the Office, the three Heads, the Organizing Committee, and every teacher—whose meticulous planning, flawless execution, and tireless dedication ensure perfection down to the last second. From welcoming the Chief Guest to bidding farewell to every parent and child, they orchestrate it seamlessly, year after year. A salute to them! And a heartfelt nod to the Alumni, who return for Founders, Sports Day, and reunions—you are cherished.

Between the Valley festivities and the awaited Evening Cultural Program lies a pause. JS children retreat to dorms for rest; I recall the Bhangra troupe being pampered with massages by Aayajis. By evening, the Auditorium brims—Chief Guest, dignitaries, teachers, families, friends, and once again, nearly all of Jharipani. The stage bursts alive: JS and GS with spirited group songs, dazzling dances, GS and BS with stirring dramatics, BS with their orchestra, and finally, JS with the thunderous Bhangra. Tomorrow, we leave for home. Yet tonight, no one remembers departure. This is home. This soil is ours. This display is worth the year-long wait. This showcase is worth every drop of sweat, every tear, every scar. It is a spectacle, a testament to talent, a celebration of each child embodying their parents’ pride, their teachers’ guidance, and the Spirit of Oak Grove, on this Day.

 

1996 Batch