World Music / International Yoga Day 2019
World Music Day
"Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.” ― Plato
On 21 June, the whole world comes together to celebrate the magic that is music. The students of NPSI came forward with full enthusiasm to partake in this celebration.
Our young MCs kicked off the event by calling in students of grade 6 for a melodious rendition of English Notes by Madurai Mani Iyer. A legendary vocalist, Iyer composed the song as a mélange of Carnatic notations and Western notes. A speech on the varied benefits of music was shared. From the chirping of birds to the footsteps of students, the student eloquently spoke on the ubiquitous nature of music.
Our music department is ever enthusiastic to put up a good show. The teachers took to the stage to perform ‘Raghuvamsa Sudha’, a popular song composed by Patnam Subramania Iyer.
Students of grade 7 came onto the stage to perform a Telugu number, ‘Thakita Thadimi’, composed by Ilayaraja. A challenging composition, our students sang with confidence, exhibiting their comfort with voice modulation and change in rhythm. The highlight of the event was a solo performance by the music teacher, using a fusion instrument that he has invented. Taking a year to come into being, the teacher has combined the ghatam and the ganjeera to develop a new instrument with a unique sound.
The celebrations for World Music Day drew to a close with the Principal congratulating all for their efforts. She emphasized that one doesn’t need a day to celebrate music and reminded everyone of the power of music.
International Yoga Day
"In truth, Yoga does not take time. It gives time" – Ganga White
June 21 occupies a special place in the world of science and geography. Referred to as summer solstice, it is the longest day in the year in the northern hemisphere. In the Hindu calendar, it marks the transition to Dakshinayana or the period where the first Yogi began imparting the knowledge of yoga.
Celebrated as International Yoga Day, June 21st has come to be reckoned with the mass revival of this ancient tradition with thousands of people practising Yoga and reaping its benefits.
At NPSI, Yoga is woven into the daily schedule, helping students improve their focus and concentration.
For this day, students and teachers took to the stage to celebrate the day. Our young MCs apprised the audience of the significance of the date. A speech on the importance of Yoga and its many benefits left the audience with some food for thought. The stage was set for some physical activity.
The PT department then guided students in groups with simple asanas including the Urdhva Hastasana and the Uttanasana. Meditation helped the students relax and calm their minds. Chants of ‘Aum’ reverberated across the school premises, sending positive vibes and energy.
The vote of thanks was delivered to express gratitude to all.