This year, 23 January held special significance for the children of the MUKTI Support School under the NIRMAN project, as two important occasions were observed on the same day—the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and Saraswati Puja. For students, particularly in Bengal, the convergence of these events provided an opportunity to reflect on national values as well as cultural and spiritual traditions.
The day was observed at the Lataguri field with flag hoisting in the presence of teachers and students. All children enrolled in the support school participated actively, and children from the nearby village were also included, reinforcing the spirit of community engagement and inclusivity.
Teachers facilitated a brief interaction highlighting the life and contributions of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose to India’s freedom movement, emphasising ideals such as courage, discipline, and selfless service.
The observance also coincided with Saraswati Puja, a religious festival traditionally celebrated across Bengal, during which Maa Saraswati, the Goddess of wisdom, learning, and the arts, is worshipped. The festival holds deep cultural significance, especially for students, as it marks reverence for knowledge and the pursuit of education. By acknowledging the spiritual and cultural importance of Saraswati Puja, the programme helped children understand the broader meaning of the occasion beyond academics alone.
Candies were distributed among the children, adding a sense of joy to the celebration and creating a culturally rooted and engaging environment. The students participated with enthusiasm and respect, and the observance contributed to strengthening their sense of identity, belonging, and motivation towards education.