Muscat: Indian School Al Ghubra celebrated the 29^th Founder’s Day on Thursday, the 14^th of November. The Chief Guest of the occasion was Dr. Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Hinai, Ministers Advisor for International Education Relations, Sultanate of Oman. The Guest of Honour was His Excellency Shri Munu Mahawar, Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman . The Founder Dr. P. Mohamed Ali and his wife, Mrs Razia   also graced the occasion. Dignitaries such as Mrs. Siddiqa Abdul Majeed Al Lawatiya, Director, International Schools Office, Ministry of Education, Mr. Ahmed Rayees – President SMC, Mr. Sunil Kattakath Convener SMC, Mr. C.M. Najeeb Vice Chairman Board of Director,Indian Schools in Oman, members of the BOD, Indian Schools in Oman, members of the School Management Committee and other distinguished guests were also present.

The programme commenced with the Royal Anthem of Oman and the National Anthem of India. The Chief Guest and dignitaries were welcomed in an eco-friendly manner.

The Principal Mrs. Papri Ghosh accorded a warm welcome to the Chief Guest and the dignitaries. In her address, Mrs. Ghosh mentioned that next year while Oman will be celebrating the 50^th National Day, ISG would be celebrating the 30^th Founder’s Day. This is possible only due to the benevolence of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said. She said Founder’s Day is celebrated to honour the Founder whose vision guides the school towards achieving excellence in Education. The Annual Report of the school showcased the many awards and accolades received by the students in the academic year 2018 – 2019. 

In his address, the Chief Guest greeted the students on the occasion of Children’s Day which is celebrated in India on the 14^th of November every year. He lauded the efforts and achievements of ISG in the field of education and said Indian schools were well equipped to prepare the students to face the challenges of the ever changing world. 

The Founder, Dr. P. Mohamed Ali emphasized that students should inculcate an attitude of gratitude. He said ISG has become a standard bearer in education and thanked  the School Management Committee and the Principal and staff of the school for their hard work and dedication. He also conveyed his greetings to the students on the occasion of Children’s Day. The President of SMC, Mr. Ahmed Rayees in his speech paid rich tribute to Mr. G. D. C. Rao who retired after three decades of sterling service and thanked him for laying the foundations for a sound administrative and financial system. 

In the prize distribution ceremony that followed, toppers in the CBSE Board Examinations and in other disciplines were felicitated. Members of staff who have completed long years of service were also felicitated. 

The Cultural Show began with the students performing a folksong entitled ‘Naad Lok’. The song showcased the rich musical heritage of India which captures the essence of India.  

It was followed by the musical ‘The Song Within Me’ which depicted how dreams can be achieved if we do not let disappointments deter us. The story of the musical weaved its way through highly popular songs of the pop group ABBA and kept the audience riveted. The singing, dancing and theatrical skills of the multi-talented students of ISG were displayed at their best, much to the delight of the audience. The play ended with the Principal Mrs. Papri Ghosh appearing briefly as a character in the play which was an absolute surprise. The grand finale with all the participants and the students of class 12 lining the hall with torches that lit up the ceiling of the auditorium in a burst of colours  made it a breathtaking sight to behold. The vibrantly coloured costumes of the dancers, the imaginative backdrop, the skilful lighting and sound effects made the musical a memorable one. 

The evening ended with the Principal Mrs. Papri Ghosh wishing the students a Happy Children’s Day on behalf of all the adults present which set off a burst of glitter and sparkles creating an atmosphere of gay abandon much to the delight of the children.