Janjgir-Champa :
A heartwarming and meaningful event took place at Government Upper Primary School, Lodhipara Sarkanda, Bilaspur, where the dual celebrations of Shaala Praveshotsav (School Enrollment Festival) and Van Mahotsav (Forest Festival) were organized. The occasion not only welcomed new students with open arms but also instilled the importance of environmental conservation.
The celebration began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and floral tributes offered to Goddess Saraswati. Chief guest Mrs. Sangeeta Parihar, Ward Councillor and Chairperson of the School Management Committee, along with other committee members, parents, and staff, graced the event. School principal Mr. Subhashchandra Singh, assistant teacher Mrs. Heera Soni (also known as Sonia Soni), sanitation worker Mr. Manharan Sahu, and cook Mrs. Chandra Srivastava were present alongside enthusiastic students and their parents, who actively participated in the tree plantation program.
During the Shaala Praveshotsav, new students were welcomed with traditional tilak and gifted books by Mrs. Parihar and committee members. They were guided on the value of education and encouraged to embrace learning with sincerity. The celebration created a welcoming environment for students starting a new academic journey, emphasizing both knowledge and values.
Adding a touch of creativity and joy to the event was the selfie zone created by Kumari Himani Soni, daughter of Mrs. Heera Soni. This vibrant space quickly became the center of attraction, where students and teachers joyfully clicked pictures, capturing memories of the day. The presence of well-known dentist Dr. Amit Swarnkar and Mrs. Sheela Swarnkar, along with their young daughter Shivi Swarnkar, added charm and warmth to the occasion.
Writer and education advocate Mr. Shashibhushan Soni highlighted the deeper purpose behind the event. He explained that Shaala Praveshotsav aims to honor and welcome new students at the beginning of the academic session, while also educating them about the importance of schooling. On such occasions, educational kits, books, and notebooks are distributed, special guests are honored, and outstanding students are felicitated to encourage excellence.
Under the Van Mahotsav banner, the tree plantation drive was held to promote environmental awareness. Trees were planted within the school premises by invited guests and school committee members. The initiative aimed to inspire students to take responsibility for nature, understand the significance of greenery, and contribute to environmental preservation.
Together, these celebrations reflected a holistic approach—fostering both academic growth and environmental consciousness among young learners. The day was a perfect blend of tradition, education, creativity, and ecological commitment.