events 2023

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Events 2023

Thiruvathirai – 27.12.2023

          Thiruvathirai was celebrated at vinayagar temple in our Ashram on 27.12.2023. It is our traditional occasion. We all assembled at 6.15 a.m. Lord Natarajar and Sivakami Ammal were kept ready for special Pooja.

          Abisegams were performed. Our Ashram president Prof.Dr.R.Venkataswami Ayya and also watched this Thiruvathirai function through online. Special Arathana was performed with different types of deepas. Finally prasadam kazhi distributed to all.

Christmas Celebration

Christmas Day was celebrated in our Ashram on 21.12.2023. The meeting started with the prayer our school secretary Smt.Dr.V. Geetha welcomed all.

Christmas Message by Prof. Dr. Sembon David

Prof.Dr. Sembon David, former director of the Department of Medical Education, delivered a special address. He wished Merry Christmas to all. Sri.Deva Prakasam Physiotherapist and his wife Smt.Jerez Berlin performed a Puppet Show. That Puppet show delivered the messages like Speaking the Truth, Respecting Parents, and Possessing Good qualities.

Puppet Show by Sri.Deva Prakasam Physiotherapist and his wife Smt.Jerez Berlin 

Smt.Reeta, CSI Church, Madurai pointed out the Noble qualities that every student should possess:

  1. Get up Early
  2. Play carefully and Safely
  3. Avoid watching Mobile Phone
  4. Respect the Elders
  5. Don’t waste Food
  6. Keep the surroundings Clean
Special address by Smt. Reeta
Special address by Pastor Sri.Solomon

Sri. Solomon, Pastor of CSI church Pasumalai delivered a Christmas Day Message. He said that trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your understanding. In all your way submit to God and he will make your parts straight. Faith involves trusting in the future promises of God and waiting for their fulfillment. Submit to God  and be at peace with him in this way, prosperity will come to you.

Santa claus

Selvan. Joshuva, Vll-C and Selvan Dharman. X-D disguised as  Santa Claus. Sri.M Nagarajan HM  Thanked All. The meeting came to an end with the National Anthem.

Primary School (23.12.2023) :

           On 22nd December 2023, a grand event was held for celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Mrs. R. Seethalakshmi welcomed everyone with a warm welcoming speech. Girls from classes 1, 4 and 5 performed a dance. Miss. Anamithra from class 5 dressed up as Santa Clause and gave special Christmas wish cards to our honorable Chairman, Prof. Dr. R.Venkataswami, School Secretary, Dr. Geetha, Ashram board member, Prof. Dr. V.Ragupathy, Primary school Headmistress Mrs. Muthumari, Higher secondary school Headmaster Mr. Nagaraj and students Ramaya and Mohana.

Dr. Geetha and Dr. Ragupathy headed the event and gave their speeches on this wonderful day. Mrs. Uma Maheshwari gave a special speech on Christmas and Jesus Christ. The event ended with Mrs. Vijaya’s vote of thanks and finally Christmas sweets were distributed to everyone with great joy.

Children’s Day Celebration-14.11.2023

We celebrated Children’s Day in our school on 14.11.2023. The meeting started with a prayer. Sri.M.Nagarajan HM welcomed all. Smt.P. Renuga Devi PG. Asst Tamil delivered a talk about Jawaharlal Nehru. Nehru was one of the leaders of the Indian nationalist movement. He served as the Prime Minister of India for 16 years.  

Nehru’s father Motilal Nehru was a lawyer and Indian nationalist. Nehru’s sisters were Vijayalakshmi Pandit and Krishna. NehruJi studied law in England and became a barrister and returned to India. He gradually began to take an interest in national politics. He joined the Indian National Congress. He was attracted by Gandhiji’s principles in fighting against British rule. Nehru met Gandhiji for the first time in 1916 at the annual meeting of the Indian National Congress in Lucknow. Nehru spent more than 9 years in prison. He wrote the books “The Discovery of India, An Autobiography- Towards Freedom, and Letters from a Father to His Daughter” during his imprisonment. Letters from a Father to his daughter is a collection of letters written by Jawaharlal Nehru to his daughter Indira Gandhi.
 
When he became the first Prime Minister of India he raised the Indian flag at Redfort in New Delhi. He also gave his famous speech that day. It was called ” Tryst with Destiny. ” He said “Long years ago we made a Tryst with Destiny. Now the time has come when we shall redeem our pledge – not wholly or in full measure but very substantially. At the stroke of the midnight hour when the world sleeps India will awake of life and freedom.

Saraswathi Pooja 23.10.2023

 
        We celebrated Saraswathi pooja in our Ashram on 23/10/23 at 9:30 A.M in our auditorium. Our Ashram group sang many songs on Saraswathi, Lakshmi, and Durga.  After the bhajan Smt.D.Malathi B.T.Asst Maths talked about Navarathri. In her talk, she said that there are 4 types of Navrathri. They are Sharada Navrathri, Chaitra Navrathri, Maga Gupta Navrathri, and Ashadha Gupta Navrathri. 
Goddess Durga was created by Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva for the slaying of Buffalo demon Mahishasuran.
Goddess Durga fought fiercely and defeated Mahishasuran during the course of 9 days. These 9 days are celebrated as Navarathri.
           In South India, the celebrations take the form of Bommai golu or Navarathri golu, an artistic display of dolls. There are certain rules to be followed while placing the dolls in the Golu steps. Dolls of animals and birds should be kept in the bottom step, and dolls of normal human beings should be kept in the next step. Dolls of mahans should be kept in the next, dolls of incarnations (avatars) should be kept in the next, and dolls of Ambal, Shivan,Vishnu, Lakshmi should be kept on the uppermost step. It is to clearly distinguish life steps.
        From Durga Devi’s 9 avatars, we learn lessons of strength discipline mindfulness, and determination. After the Pooja prasadham was distributed to all. 

Ashram Opening Day-12.10.2023

Our Gandhi Niketan Ashram was established on 12th October 1940 by our founder G Venkatachalapathi Ayya. It was opened by Sardar Vedarathinam Pillai. We remembered that day. The special prayer was conducted at Ko.Ve. Manimandapam at 6.00 A.M.

Morning special prayer at Manimandabam

Our Ashram President Prof. Dr. R.Venkataswami Ayya talked through online. He talked about Sardar Vedarathinam Pillai. Sardar Vedarathinam Pillai was an Indian Freedom Fighter. He was the leader of the Indian National Congress. He served as an MLA for 14 years. He was Known for his contributions to the Salt March of Vedaranyam in 1930 along with Rajaji. In the year 1931 Vedarathinam Pillai was conferred with the title of “Sardar” at the meeting of the Tamil Nadu agriculturists and labourers at Tirunelveli for his exploits in the Vedaranyam salt March. In 1946 he founded ‘Kasthuriba Gandhi Kanya Gurukulam’ Our founder G. Venkatachalapathi had a good relationship with Vedarathinam and he asked Vedarathinam Pillai to open this institution. We should remember both leaders on this day.

Special Message by our Ashram President Prof.Dr.R.Venkataswami and our Governing Body Member Prof.Dr.V.Ragupathi

Prof.Dr.V.Ragupathi Ayya governing body member, Gandhi Niketan Ashram said that our Ashram was a training place for the patriotic leaders before Independence. Sri. T.S.S. Rajan laid the foundation of our Ashram on April 28,1940. It was opened by Sardar Vedarathinam Pillai. Gandhi Niketan Ashram, Kasturiba Gandhi Kanya Gurukulam and Gandhigram were the places that gave importance to basic Education. Gandhiji was at Sevagram in 1946. At that time he called Sri. Bakthavatchalam, Sri. K. Arunachalam, Sri. G. Venkatachalapathy to take part in the constructive plans in villages all over India. This place is a sacred place. Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Kirubalini Vinobaji, etc had come here. our founder’s wife Meenakshi Ammal, Thavasi Naidu and Kathir Vel contributed a lot to develop our institution. Today is the 83rd birthday of our Ashram. We must work hard to develop this great institution. After that, we all paid a floral tribute to the founder Samadhi and Gandhiji’s statue.

Floral tribute

At 9.00 AM we all gathered at the auditorium for Nama Sangeerthanam. Dr. V. Ragapathi Ayya asked all the students to come for the 100th birthday of our institution with flying colors.

Gandhi Jayanthi – 02.10.2023

Gandhiji’s 155 th birth anniversary was celebrated in our Gandhi Niketan Ashram on 02.10.2023. A special prayer was conducted at 6:00 a.m. in Gandhi mandapam.  After the prayer our Ashram president Prof.Dr.R.Venkataswami ayya delivered special message through Online. In his talk he told that today is an important day. Only on 2nd October our founder thought of starting an institution in the name of Gandhiji. The progress of the institution depends on the workers of Gandhi Niketan ashram. All must work to fulfill the wishes of our founder. This is the oath we must take on this day.

Morning Special Prayer

 

Special Message by our Ashram President Prof.Dr.R.Venkataswami and our Governing Body Member Prof.Dr.V.Ragupathi

Dr.V. Ragupathi, Governing body member, Gandhi Niketan Ashram, talked about the blessings of Gandhiji to our institution. Basic education teachers of our institution got the appointment order from Gandhiji.  That is the great pride to us. Dr.V. Ragupathi asked the teachers to teach the values of Gandhiji like simplicity, punctuality, truthfulness etc.. after that we paid a floral tribute to Gandhiji’s statue.

The meeting started with the prayer at 9:30 a.m. in the auditorium. Dr.V. Ragupathi governing body member,Gandhi Niketan ashram welcomed all. Sri.Elangovan, Administrative officer, Kalamega Perumal Temple Thirumohoor, delivered the special address on “Valluvathil Gandhiji”. The chief guest quoted the sayings of great leaders like Einstein, Sarojini Naidu, Nehruji, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King etc.. about Gandhiji.

Welcome address by our Governing Body Member Dr.V.Ragupathi
Sepcial Address by Sri.Elangovan, Administrative officer, Thirumohoor Temple
 

When Gandhiji was in South Africa he helped leprosy, blake affected people with so much of love. He never minded about the infectious diseases. He compared Gandhiji’s life with “valluvar’s Anbudamai-the possession of love.”

அன்பிற்கும் உண்டோ அடைக்குந்தாழ் ஆர்வலர் 

புன்கணீர் பூசல் தரும்.

அன்பிலார் எல்லாம் தமக்குரியர் அன்புடையார்

என்பும் உரியர் பிறர்க்கு.

அன்பின் வழியது உயிர்நிலை அஃதிலார்க்கு

என்புதோல் போர்த்த உடம்பு.

Mahatma Gandhiji camped in Navakali for 4 months and toured the district in a mission to restore peace and communal harmony. Without any weapons he retained peace. So Mountbatten hailed Gandhiji as “One-Man Boundary Force”.

Gandhiji visited Madurai 5 times. In 1921 on September 23 Gandhiji to brave decision to shed his traditional attire and get into a loin cloth which remained with him till death. In order to explain this decision he stopped on Kamaraj Salai and addressed the public in his iconic attire.This place is came to be known as “Gandhi pottal”.  He also explained about Gandhiji’s truthfulness through

” எல்லா விளக்கும் விளக்கல்ல சான்றோர்க்குப்

பொய்யா விளக்கே விளக்கு”  Which means No all lights cause illumination. For the wise, only the light of truth is illuminant. Truth,honesty and perseverance are the basic values we should learn from Gandhiji and spread throughout the world. Sri.M.Nagarajan HM thanked all. The meeting came to an end with the National Anthem.

Visitors-29.09.2023

A group of Buddhists on a peace walk for world peace and non-violence from Kanyakumari to Madurai Gandhi Museum visited Kallupatti Gandhi Niketan Ashram on 29.09.2023 morning.

Vinayagar sathurthi – 19.08.2023

Ganesh Chathurthi is an important Hindu festival celebrated in India. We also celebrated Vinayagar chathurthi in our Ashram on 18.9.2023 at 10.00 AM in our auditorium. Vinyagar Bhajan songs were sung by our Ashram group.

Special Address by our English Teacher Mrs.J.Krishna Deepa

Smt.J.Krishna Deepa B.T.Asst. talked about Vinayagar chathurthi. Vinayagar chathurthi is marking the birth of the elephant headed deity Ganesha, the God of prosperity and Wisdom . Ganesha is the head of Lord Siva’s followers. He brings luck and prosperity. 

Lord Ganesha has many names: 

  1. Lambodara- the huge belied Lord. 
  2. Skanda poorvajar- elder brother of Lord karthikeya
  3. Vakhradunda- Ganesha’s first incarnation was as curved trunk. 
  4. Mushika vagan-a salutations to Vinayaka. whose vehicle is the mouse.
  5. Iyangaran-The son of lord Shiva.

She also told about the importance of Aruhambul and Modaham. Chatra Pati Shivaji Maharaj made the celebration of Ganesh chathurthi as a prime festival, and a public event. In 19th century Ganesh chathurthi was made as a freedom struggle tool by Bala Gangadara Thilakar. Ganesha is common to both saivas and vainavas. Saivas worship Ganesha as Ganapathi,and Vainavas worship as Thumbikkai Azhvar. In Tamil Nadu we have lot of Vinyagar Temples. So we call Tamil Nadu as “Theiva Thiru Nadu”. We also have V inayagar temple in our Ashram.we are blessed.

 After the Pooja prasadam was distributed to all.

Krishna Jayanthi – 06.09.2023

Primary School:

Lord Krishna is one of the major Hindu gods. His birth is celebrated as “Krishna Jayanthi” or “Janmashtami” in our country.

On the 7th of September, Krishna Jayanthi was also celebrated in our school in a grand manner. Two children from classes 3 and 4 were dolled up as Radha and Krishna, which is a common practice in all Hindu households on this auspicious day. Mrs. Uma Maheshwari sang many songs in celebration of Lord Krishna and his divine works, which took everyone to a spiritual world. Following the performance, Mrs. Muthumari gave a special speech on Krishna Jayanthi, Lord Krishna, and his incarnations, which everybody enjoyed listening to. Thus, the wonderful ceremony came to an end.

Higher Secondary School:         

         Krishna Jayanthi was celebrated in our Ashram on 06.09.2023 at 9:30 AM. Krishna bhajan songs were sung by our Ashram  group. Our School Secretary Smt.Dr.V.Geetha talked about Janmastami. It is also known as Krishnashtami. Janmastami is more than just a festival. It is a journey into the world of devotion, unity and spiritual awakeninJg. Krishna is the God of protection, compassion   tenderness and love. The main significance of  janmashtami is to encourage good will and to discourage badwill. She quoted a song from “Narayaneeyam”. Our Tamil Teacher Smt.G.Kanageshwari talked about Krishna Avatar. She described the leelas of Krishna from Mahabharatha. In Bagavath Gita.

Special address by our Tamil Teacher Mrs.G.Kangeshwari

Lord Krishna said that everything happens for a good reason. Whatever happens in life happen for good and there is always a reason behind that. She also mentioned that we are all children of God. God is supreme and the world is governed by him. Krishna had 3 definite life goals for himself.

  1. Welfare for good.
  2. Destroy evil.
  3. Establish and strengthen the good principles. After her talk special Pooja was conducted.

Teachers Day – 05.09.2023

Primary School:

           The 5th of September, every year, is celebrated as “Teachers Day” in India in remembrance of Dr. Radhakrishnan, who was a great teacher and scholar.

Special address by our Teacher Smt.Vimala
Student’s Speech

“Knowledge is power.” Teachers play an inevitable role in imparting knowledge to children and moulding their future. To honour them, our school also celebrates Teachers Day every year without fail. This year, the celebration started with Mrs. Kowsalya’s welcome address following which Mrs. Vimala gave her special address. Children from classes 1 to 5 gave their contribution to the event in the form of cultural activities like speeches and songs. The celebration came to an end with Mrs. Kanagavalli delivering her vote of thanks.

Higher Secondary School:

            We celebrated Teacher’s Day in our school on 05.09.2023 at 9.15 AM. The meeting started with a prayer. Our Ashram chairman Prof.Dr.R.Venkataswami Ayya, our School Secretary Smt.Dr.V.Geetha and  Sri.M.Nagarajan  wished all the teachers.

Smt.S.Abirami, PG Asst English  delivered a special address. In her talk she told that he was born in a small Brahmin family in Tamil Nadu on September 5,  1888. He was a great Philosopher, Thinker and a Teacher. He made many important contributions in the field of education. Bagavath Gita, Mahatma Gandhi and Indian philosophy are some of his books. From 1949 to 1952 he was the ambassador of Soviet Union. After this he became the first Vice President of our country. He was elected as the second President of our country in 1962. He was well known for his wisdom and the deep understanding of Indian culture and the philosophy. Despite achieving great heights in politics, Dr. Radha Krishnan was very much interested in teaching and philosophy. So he wished his birthday to be celebrated as teacher’s day. He was awarded Bharat Ratna in 1954. He conclude her talk by the Dr.Radhakrishnan “Books are the means by which we build bridges between cultures.”

குறுவட்ட அளவில் நடைபெற்ற தடகள விளையாட்டுப் போட்டிகளில் வெற்றி பெற்ற மாணவிகள்

Independence Day -15.08.2023

         We celebrated 77th Independence day on 15. 08.2023 in our Ashram. The National Flag was hoisted by our school Secretary Smt.Dr.V. Geetha at 8.30 A.M. 

Flag hoisting and Special message by our School Secretary       

After that students went on a procession along the main streets of T.Kallupatti raising the following slogans, “Jai Hind, Vande Mataram, Bharat Mata ki Jai” etc. The procession with band attracted all.

     Procession

 Independence day meeting was conducted in our auditorium at 10 a.m. The meeting started with the prayer. Smt.Dr.V.Geetha welcomed all. Sri.V. Ragupathy Governing body member presided over the meeting.

Welcome address by our School Secretary
Presidential address by our Governing body Member Dr.V.Ragupathy

In his presidential address he told about the importance of patriotism. He told our institution was started in 1940. We got Independence in 1947. Between 1940 and 1947, seven years during this period our institution served as the field to prepare the freedom fighters. In 1942 our founder was arrested in our Gandhi mandapam at midnight for the participation in “Quit India Movement “. He also told the students that our institution was the main part for the freedom movements in our area. We have a pillar in remembrance of silver jubilee year of Independence. He also quoted some Bharathiyar Songs. Bharathiar songs were very much liked by our founder Ko.Ve. He asked the students to read and sing bharathiyar songs and do the duty without anyone’s promoting that is called freedom.

Student address by Selvi.M.Muthulakshmi XII-B

Patriotic song by Selvan Geethai Priyan XII-A

Selvi.M.Muthulakshmi, XII-B talked about the Importance of Independence. Selvan.Geethai Priyan XII-A sang a patriotic song. Our Tamil Teacher Sri.G.Thangamudi delivered the special address. In his talk he told about the sacrifices and struggles to achieve Indian Independence. Tamilnadu had contributed to the freedom movement. Men and women from Tamil Nadu actively and bravely fought for the country. Tirupur Kumaran-he was given the phrase. Kodi Kaatha Kumaran(Kumaran who protected the flag) as he died holding the Indian National flag which was banned by the British. Vanchinathan- he believed that the only way to achieve freedom was through the use of force. He was among the Indian freedom fighters from Tamilnadu due to his assassination of Robert Ashe. He also remembered the sacrifices of Bhagat Singh and Jagatguru. Many great leaders were brave and courageous. He also talked about the colours of the National flag. The saffron colour indicates the strength and courage of the country. The white indicates peace and truth with Dharma chakra. The green colour shows the fertility growth and auspiciousness of the land. Let us remember and honour the sacrifices of the freedom fighters.

Sri.M. Nagarajan HM delivered vote of thanks. Sweets were distributed to all. The meeting came to an end with the National Anthem. 

114th Birthday celebrations of our Founder and 84th Annual day Celebrations of our Ashram

84th Ashram Annual Day Invitation TamilEnglish
Fourth Day – Ashram’s 84th Annual day and Founder’s 114th birthday celebration – 30.07.2023

      Our founder’s 114th birthday Ashram’s 84th anniversary was celebrated on 30.07.2023. The special prayer was conducted at 6:00 A.M. in Gandhimandapam. After the prayer our Ashram president Prof.Dr.R.Venkataswami delivered special message through online.

         He told that our founder G.Venkatachalapathy ayya established this institution in 1940. He was a teacher. Teachers must work hard to develop the institution. Teachers must help village students by giving good education with dedication. Prof.Dr.V. Ragupathy, Governing body member told that our founder was a villager, Teacher and also a freedom fighter. After he met Sri.Vaithianatha Iyer and N.M.R. Subbaraman, he established this Institution. We should adapt the noble qualities of great leaders and work for the betterment of this Institution. After that we paid a floral tribute in Founder’s statue and Gandhiji’s statue.

     At 8.30 A.M. Gandhiniketan Schools Secretary Dr.V.Geetha hoisted the Ashram flag. Then we all gathered at shantivanam for Nama sangeerthanam. Then we all paid a floral tribute at Founder’s samathi.

       The public meeting was started at 10:15 a.m. in the auditorium with the prayer. Our Ashram Secretary Sri.N.Shanmugasundaram delivered the welcome address. Dr.V.Geetha, Secretary, GN schools, presented the Annual Report. Prof. Dr.R.Venkataswami, President, Gandhi Niketan Ashram, told that we all blessed to study and work here. Everyone must work hard to develop our institution. Justice Shri.K.Murali Shankar, Honourable judge, High court of Madras, Madurai Bench, delivered the presidential address. In his address he told about Gandhiji’s saying “The soul of India breaths in villages”. Founder G.Venkatachalapathy dedicated his life as teacher, freedom fighter and secretary, Rural Development Department. Village development and People’s Autonomy were the two eyes of our founder. “The ambition of the greatest man of our generation has been to wipe every tear from every one.” This statement is referred by Nehru to Mahatma Gandhiji.

      Gandhiji told my message to the society is “My life “. Truth and non violence are the twin pillars of Gandhian thoughts. Self discipline, simplicity and tolerance are the qualities we have to practice in our life. He quoted A.P.J.Kalam’s quotes “Dreams transforms into thoughts and thoughts results in action”. Sri.K.Subburaj Director, Sura publications, delivered the Founder’s Oration speech. In his address he described Mahatma. He explained Einstein’s “Theory of Relativity”. It has made many new technologies possible. Gandhiji was liked by all the leaders like Vincent Churchill, England’s Prime minister. He asked the students to read the books of Gandhiji. “Truth is God” is the main Moto of Gandhiji. Nehruji addressed on the midnight of 14th August 1947 to the Indian constituent Assembly in the parliament- Tryst with Destiny. It focuses on restoring the glory of India and rebuilding after the destruction caused by British rule .The speech’s Central aspect was addressing ignorance poverty and health. Gandhiji’s life was changed after reading the books of Civil Disobedience by Henry David Thoreau,Unto this last by John Ruskin, The kingdom of God is with in you by Leo Tolstoy. Our founder Ko.Ve’s favourite books are Thirukural, Bharathiyar songs and vinobaji’s Bhagavath Gita. These books made Ko.Ve as Karma Yogi. Shri.K.Subburaj wanted to present 300 books to our library. E Magazine – Voice of Gandhiniketan was released by Dr.V. Raghupathy member Gandhiniketan Ashram. prizes were distributed to the students- toppers in public examination and all the teachers by Dr. S.Aram member Gandhi Niketan Ashram. Sri.M.Nagarajan HM delivered vote of thanks. The meeting came to an end with the National Anthem. 

Third Day – Cultural Day – 28.07.2023

As a part of our anniversary we celebrated the cultural festival on 28.07.2023 in our school auditorium. The cultural programmes were started with the prayer. The students of our primary school performed the following cultural items. Kolattam, English drama, Group song, Village dance, Abinaya nadanam and fancy dress. After the break the programmes of our Higher secondary school began. Bharatham, English drama, Aerobics, Karagam, Village dance, kolattam,Tamil drama, Kavadiattam and pyramid. A large number of parents and all the students appreciated and enjoyed the programmes.

Second Day – Village Heritage Sports – 26.07.2023

      We celebrated village Heritage sports day on 26th July 2023. In the presence of our school secretary Smt.Dr.V.Geetha, our ashram governing body members, Dr.V.Ragupathy, Dr.N.Ramanisekar, T.Kallupatti Chairman, Sri.Muthuganesan declared open the competitions. Thattaangal, Kilithattu, Nondi, Pallankuli, Kho kho, Skipping were the games played by the girls. Pambaram, Kabaddi, Kitti, Vatathu Raja, Sack Race, Tyre ottam were the games played by the boys. Lemon with spoon, 3 Legged Race, Pambaram, Uppumoottai Thookkuthal were played by primary students. The boys and girls took part with enthusiasm in the more or less forgotten games. Prizes were distributed to the winners by our school secretary Smt.Dr.V. Geetha. Momentum were offered to all the employees of our Ashram.

First Day – Science Exhibition – 24.07.2023

      On 24th July 2023 science exhibition was conducted under the presidentship of Smt.Dr.V.Geetha secretary Gandhiniketan schools. In her presidential address she pointed out that these exhibitions induce the skills of asking question. Why? What for? and How? science gives the answers for these questions. She advised the students to make use of science exhibition. Prof.Dr.S.R.Jayapradha, Government arts and science College, Nilakkottai inaugurated the science exhibition. In her inaugural address she quoted Gandhiji’s saying,

“நீ எந்த விதமான உலகத்தை பார்க்க விரும்புகிறாயோ அதுபோலவே நீ மாறு." 

She also told that we should create interest in science through the inventions displayed in the exhibitions. Nearly 178 projects were displayed. More than 300 students tookpart in the exhibition.

Kamarajar Birthday – Education Development Day – 15.07.2023

Primary School:

Greetings! We celebrated ‘Education development day’ on the 15th of July which was also the birthday of our late Chief Minister, Mr. K. Kamarajar, in a grand manner. The programme started with prayer followed by the welcome address delivered by our Headmistress, Mrs. Muthumari.

Dr. Geetha, Secretary, gave the presidential address which was a huge hit among the children. Followed by which Mrs. Saroja gave a special speech on Kamarajar and his selfless work to the society. Children from each and every class performed dance, song and speech praising the great leader who inspired and still inspires thousands to make a difference.

The celebration came to an end with vote of thanks by Mrs. Kanagavalli.

Hr. sec. school:

Tamilnadu celebrates Birth anniversary of Karmaveerar Kamarajar (15th July) as Education development day. In our ashram we celebrated education development day. We conducted various competitions like essay writing, oratorical speech, drawing and oranga nadagam on the morning session. The meeting started at 3:00 p.m. in our auditorium with the prayer. Sri.M.Nagarajan HM welcomed the gathering. Dr. V. Ragupathi, Governing body member, Gandhi niketan Ashram, presided over the meeting. In his presidential address he told that our founder G. Venkatachalapathi ayya considered Kamarajar as his elder brother. The old building of our school was declared open by Karmaveerar Kamarajar. He had come to our institution many times. During his tenure as chief minister of Tamilnadu he opened more than 6000 schools. He started noon meal scheme and free education scheme. This is called Kalvi puratchi. Many dams were built by him. Selvan. Senthil vinayakam 11 A talked about Karmaveerar in English. Prizes were distributed to all the winners by Dr. V. Ragupathi and our school secretary Smt. Dr. V. Geetha. Sri. P. Subbaraj AHM thanked all. The meeting came to an end with the National Anthem. 

Yoga day-21.06.2023

Primary School:

“International Yoga Day” is observed every year on the 21st of June to raise awareness about the ancient practice of yoga. The event began with a brief introduction on yoga day by our school’s Headmistress, Mrs. Muthumari.

Then warm up exercises where taken and all the students practiced and performed “Surya Namaskaram”. The yoga commentary was done by Mrs. Vijayarani. Some of the sitting and standing asanas were also performed by the students and their importance was also explained simultaneously.

All the children were taught about the importance of yoga in their life and how to maintain the harmony between body and mind. Then the function ended with a vote of thanks.    

Hr. Sec. School:

We celebrated yoga day in our ashram on 21.6.2023. Higher secondary school boys and girls assembled in their respective areas. The programme started with the prayer. Sri. P. Subbaraj AHM welcomed all. Smt. Dr .V. Geetha secretary GNGV schools delivered the special address. In her address she told that the first International day of yoga was celebrated in 2015 after the UN proclaimed June 21st as the international day of yoga in 2014. Yoga is a gift of India that may improve people’s health and happiness world wide. It brings harmony between mind and body. It helps to improve concentration attention and memory function. She asks the students to do practice of breath regulation daily. This consistent practice brings a steady mind and a disease free body. Our President professor Dr. R. Venkataswami ayya observed all the activities through Skype. After that students started doing the following asanas.
Surya namaskar
Padmasana
Vajrasana
Yoga mudrasana. 
Bhujangasana.
Dhanurasana
Trikona asana 
Utkatasana
Padhahasthasana 
Egapadhasana.
 
The comments for the asanas were given by Sri. Lakshmana Kumar, physical director and smt. N. Tamil Ilakiya physical education teacher. our physical director thanked all. yoga day celebration came to an end with the National Anthem. 

FOUNDER REMEMBRANCE DAY – 13.06.2023

Founder Sri. G. Venkatachalapathi’s 54th remembrance day was observed in our Gandhi Niketan ashram on 13.06.2023. A special prayer was conducted at 6.00 a.m. in our Mani mandapam. After the prayer ashram governing body member Dr. V. Ragupati Ayya delivered remembrance day message .In his talk he told that our founder chanted the Mantra of Ram while dying. Ram means peace, happiness and beauty. He established Gandhi Niketan ashram in 1940 to train the freedom fighters. Many great leaders visited here. He also remembered the incident of Martin Luther king’s meeting with our founder. After the meeting Luther King told that he met the leader, the follower of Gandhiji. This day is not only a remembrance day to our founder but also to pay a tribute to all the freedom fighters. we should follow the principles of our founder Ko.Ve. 
 
 
After that we all paid a floral tribute to Founder’s samathi, Founder’s statue and Gandhiji’s statue. we all gathered in our Auditorium at 9 a.m. for the meeting. Namasangeerthanam was organised by our Ashram group. The meeting started with the prayer. Smt. Dr. V. Geetha, Secretary Gandhiniketan GV schools welcomed all. Dr. V. Ragupathi Governing body member presided over the meeting. In his presidential address he quoted this Thirukkural.
*பெருமை யுடையவர் ஆற்றுவர் ஆற்றின் 
அருமை உடைய செயல்*

This thirukkural was very much liked by our founder. It means, (though reduced) the great will be able to perform in the proper way deeds difficult (for others to do)

 Sri. Dr. N. Ramani Sekar governing body member Gandhi Niketan ashram delivered the special address. In his address he told that our founder started the institution only to give practice to the freedom fighters. He was the true follower of Gandhiji. He wanted people also to follow the principles of Gandhiji. Education must teach moral values. Gandhiji gave importance to basic education. Our founder was impressed by Bharathiar and Thiruvalluvar. While our founder met Gandhiji our founder gave knife ,Khadi dress and spectacle frame made in Gandhi Niketan Ashram. At the time Gandhiji told our founder that wherever constructive works are done under his name there would be his blessings. Our Ashram is a blessed place. we have to fulfill our founders dream. We should work whole heartedly with dedication .
 
Sri. M. Nagarajan HM thanked all. The meeting came to an end with the National Anthem. 

ASHRAM FOUNDATION DAY – 28.04.2023

Every year we celebrate our ashram’s foundation day on the 28th of April in remembrance of our founder G. Venkatachalapathy Ayya’s ambitious dream coming true, which is nothing but the establishment of our prestigious institution, Gandhi Niketan Ashram. Following Gandhiji’s footsteps, Kove Ayya also wanted to develop rural India, and he decided to do it with the help of education since he was an ardent Gandhian and a driven teacher. 

The day started with a special prayer at 6 in the morning at Gandhi Mandapam. After the prayer, our honourable chairman, Prof. Dr. R. Venkataswami Ayya, gave a special speech online. 

Special message by our Ashram President

In his speech, he praised Kove Ayya for his excellent thoughts and work as a gandhian and an educator. He mentioned an incident in the founder’s life that was about a prisoner whom he had met in prison during our freedom struggle. Kove Ayya was impressed by the prisoner’s courage and strength, which made him question it. He replied that it was his teacher’s words that made him courageous and gave him strength. This was one of Kove Ayya’s inspirations to become a teacher.

 He trained under Lalbeer, a Britishman who had great respect for our Kove Ayya. He even presented our ashram with a Jesus Christ picture, which can be seen at our Gandhi Mandapam even today. This shows the cordial relationship between them. Our founder started his teaching career at Gopinayakkanpatti, where he introduced many reforms and constructive work.

 Another incident mentioned by our chairman regarding Kove Ayya was about our founder having an encounter with a senior public service administrative officer who was highly influential. At that time, Kove Ayya was a junior to him, posted in a different department of service. The officer requested Kove Ayya in person to join his department and work with him after looking at his reformative works, which was a huge honour for Kove Ayya. He not only accepted the offer with great pleasure but also insisted that it was very big of him to meet him in person and unnecessary for him to do so as he would be ready to work with him anytime, even with a small invitation. This shows how big of a person they both were, with no hierarchical differences.

 He finally asked all the teachers in our ashram to follow Kove Ayya’s footsteps by giving their full potential to their teaching work so that Gandhi Niketan Ashram as an institution can make a change in the rural children’s lives.

 Our secretary, Dr. Geetha, and other important members, Mrs. Radha and Mr. Ramani Sekar, were also a part of the event, making it special. All the school teachers and Ashram staff also participated in the event.

Prayer and Floral offering at founder’s statue

Following the chairman’s special address, a floral tribute was paid for Gandhiji’s statue and the founder’s statue. Previously, participants of the event sang “Kadhar Abivrithi”, a song written by Kove Ayya, and “Vaishnava Janatho,” in remembrance of Gandhiji and Kove Ayya.

Finally, the headmaster, Mr. Nagaraj, gave the vote of thanks, and the event came to an end.

ENNUM EZHUTHUM SCHEME – CELEBRATION

The Tamil Nadu government has launched the “Ennum Ezhuthum” scheme for children below eight years of age from the academic year 2022-2023. The scheme is aimed at ensuring that by 2025 all students under eight years of age are able to read comprehension and have basic arithmetic skills. Under this initiative children are trained in three subjects which includes Tamil, English and Mathematics. This scheme also aims to bridge the learning gap that was caused by the COVID 19 pandemic.

In our primary school we had a celebration towards the success of the scheme which took place on three different days – 21.03.2023, 23.03.2023, 24.03.2023.

On all three days, all three classes from class 1 to 3 participated in the celebration which included students, teachers and parents. All the study materials and learning tools used for teaching the kids were displayed in a classroom for everyone to see. Many colorful posters with complete information about the scheme have been arranged for the parents notice.

Mrs. Muthumari, Head Mistress inaugurated this exhibit. Teachers welcomed the parents. All the parents participated eagerly and they were explained clearly about the scheme and its benefits by the teachers. Then a variety of activities were performed by the children from all three classes. These are the activities which were formulated by the government under the Ennum Ezhuthum scheme.

Finally a special event called Lucky corner was arranged for the parents which even had prizes for them. The program successfully came to an end with a vote of thanks.               

Educational Tour – A Trip to Madurai – 06.04.2023

            Going on a trip always makes a person happy and thrilled. To make our little ones happy, our school decided to take them on a trip to Madurai. On April 6, 2023 a group of 62 students and 8 staff members made a trip to Madurai. The excursion started around 8 AM from T.Kallupatti. Once we reached Madurai, the Madurai airport became our first venue.

Madurai Airport

All the kids were very excited to see the arrival and departure of the airplanes. After finishing our breakfast at the airport we paid our visit to our beloved goddess Meenakshi and Sundareshwarar at the Meenakshi Amman temple. All of us were in awe of the sculptures and the everlasting Dravidian architechture. Adding to its beauty was the golden lotus in the pond. Everybody was served with a laddu – prasadham which was delicious.

 

Gandhi Museum           

We made our next stop at the Gandhi museum. There was a lot to learn at the museum especially about Gandhiji and his contribution to India’s freedom struggle. The artifacts and the photographs were a visual treat for the children. One of the staff members of the museum was so generous to give a speech on Gandhiji for our kids. We also had our lunch at the museum which was arranged by the school.

Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal            

Our last and final destination was the Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, one of the important spots in Madurai to visit which is known for its humongous pillars. The children were so amazed by the pillars and the huge Darbar hall. Finally we had our evening snack and departed from Madurai with having created such wonderful memories to look back.          

Farewell Meeting – 29.03.2023

Farewell meeting was conducted in our auditorium to retiring School Watchman Sri. R. Palpandi. The meeting Started with the prayer.

Our Ashram President Prof Dr. R. Venkataswami Ayya delivered felicitation address through online. He told that today is an important day to our Ashram. Sri. Palpandi has worked here for more than 25 years. He is very kind to all. Our Chairman Ayya also told he will be missed by all and prayed for his peaceful retired life.

Sri. M. Nagarajan HM talked that Sri.Palpandi has worked under six headmasters. During holidays he looks after the School Campus very well.

Smt Dr. V. Geetha Secretary GNGV Schools honoured Sri. Palpandi and gave momentum and delivered the presidential address. She told that Sri. Palpandi also worked in our dairy farm. He is a hard worker. He never hesitated to do any work.

Smt. S. Abirami, P.G. Asst appreciated the work of Sri. Palpandi. She compared Sri. Palpandi to Bee. He is very active like bee. He maintained cordial relationship with office staff members and teachers.

Sri. Senthil Arumugam, Vocational Teacher talked about the dedication, punctuality, simplicity and kindness of Sri. Palpandi. He is an example for “work is worship”. He led his life according to the quote of Dr. Irai Anbu I.A.S that is “Paniyea Bhajanai” (பணியே பஜனை).He is very kind to the public also. He wished for Sri. Palpandi’s healthy and peaceful retired life.

Sri. S. Thazhai kani, BT Assistant also talked about the friendly behaviour of Sri. Palpandi towards teachers and students. He wished to spend his retired life with his family members and grand children happily.

Sri. Palpandi Office Assistant thanked all the gatherings in the Auditorium. Sri. P. Subbaraj AHM delivered vote of thanks . The meeting came to an end with the National Anthem.

National Science Day-28-02-2023

           The National Science Day is celebrated on 28 February each year in our school to spread awareness about the importance of science and its contributions in the daily life of the people. The celebration of national science day in our school is a crucial event that helps in promoting scientific temper among students. With great motivation from our Honorable Chairman, Dr. Venkataswami, our beloved students and teachers came up with a wonderful Science fair filled with experiments and models explaining the mind boggling concepts of Science. The Chairman did not fail to address the fair and to our surprise he was accompanied by Dr. Sivarani Venkataswami, one of our Ashram’s significant well-wisher and a governing body member. They made a point to visit each and every station and gave their wishes for the young minds.

Inaugurated by our School Secretary
Exhibits

The exhibition was inaugurated by our Secretary, Dr. Geetha who made a stop at each and every exhibit which was displayed. Our lovely children explained their innovative scientific projects and models to everyone who paid a visit to the exhibition. Another surprise guest was, Mrs. Packiyalakshmi, Supervisor – SSA also visited and enjoyed the fair very much. The special speech was another event delivered by Mrs. Saroja, teacher which inspired students to pursue scientific thinking. The headmaster, Mrs. V.Muthumari gave a speech and encouraged our young students to explore science beyond our textbooks. To conclude, Mrs. Uma Maheshwari, teacher gave the vote of thanks. Then the exhibition was kept open for the next day for the rest of the school people to see.

Martyr’s Day -30-01-2023

Gandhiji’s and J.C.Kumarappa’s remembrance day was observed in our Ashram on 30.1.2023 . A Special prayer was conducted in the Gandhimandapam at 6.00 A.M. After the prayer our Ashram President Prof.Dr.R.Venkataswami Ayya delivered special message through online. He told that Today’s world needs Gandhiji. Dr.J.C.Kumarappa was the true disciple of Gandhiji. He died on the same day of his leader (Gandhiji). Dr. Ramachandran gave the name of Gandhi Niketan to this institution.

Special Message by our Ashram President

Sri.N.M.R.Subburaman,  Sri. Vaithianatha Iyer and Founder G.Venkatachalapathy Ayya worked hard to establish this institution. Dr.J.C.Kumarappa stayed and guided for  the betterment of our Ashram. Basic Education was the most important one which he developed. When, Dr.J.C.Kumarappa was in Govt. Hospital, Chennai our Ashram president Ayya met him. We must follow the principles of Dr. J. C. Kumarappa and Gandhiji.

Floral tribute at Kumarappa’s samathi

After that Dr.V.Ragupathi Ayya talked about the importance of prayer. In his talk  he told that we are observing 75th Remembrance Day of Gandhiji. Gandhiji died when he  was in prayer. Our institution’s main soul is prayer. In the prayer we are singing “eleven virathas”.  First eight out of eleven virathas are  in Pathanjali, Bhagavath Gita, Vedas and upanidathas. The remaining three are untouchability, Social reconciliation and hard work. Gandhiji added social reconciliation as one of virathas because all are children of God.

Floral Tribute at Gandhiji Statue

Gandhiji is always with us in our prayer. Because his idol, his ash and bones are here. Our institution on is considered as Sevagram of South India. When Dr.J.C.Kumarappa called by Dr.G.Ramachandran to Gandhigram he refused to go and he wanted to stay in Gandhi Niketan Ashram.

Today we pay not only tribute to Gandhiji, Dr.J.C.Kumarappa and our Founder but also to all the leaders who work hard to establish our institution.

After that we all paid a Floral tribute to Dr.J.C. Kumarappa’s samathi and the statue of our Founder and Gandhiji.

Republic Day Celebration -26-01-2023

74th Republic Day was Celebrated  in our Ashram on 26.01.2023. Smt.Dr.V.Geetha Secretary Gandhi Niketan  Schools  hoisted the National Flag and delivered the Republic Day wishes to all. Then we all went on a procession in the main streets of T.Kallupatti, raising the slogans Jai hindh, VandeMatharam,Mahatma Gandhi ki jai.

National Flag Hoisted by our School Secretary

Procession in the main streets of T.Kallupatti              

We all gathered at 10.00 A.M  in the Auditorium for the meeting. The meeting started with the prayer. Smt.Dr.V.Geetha welcomed all and released the 15th edition of E-magazine –Voice of Gandhi Niketan.

Release of e-magazine      

Smt.S. Saroja, Teacher, delivered the special address. She described the moral values truth, hardwork honesty, braveness, patriotism  etc. Many great leaders work hard to bind our nation with true love.

               This day we have to pay salute to all the patriotic leaders. After Republic many amendments in our constitution have been made.

  1. Education to all.
  2. Food to all.
  3. Property rights to women.
  4. Voting rights.
  5. The power of military Forces.

In the Indian history Independence day and Republic day are considered to be the great rituals. Everyone should take steps to develop our country in all fields. We should obey the laws and spread the patriotism. She read the lyric “My Dream India“

Sri.M.Nagarajan HM thanked all. The meeting came to an end with the National Anthem.

National youth Day-13.01.2023

Every year Vivekanandar Jayanthi is  celebrated as youth day. The meeting Started with the Prayer at 9.00 am. In the Auditorium. Smt. Dr.V.Geetha, Secretary Gandhi Niketan Schools Welcomed all. Prof.Dr.R.Venkataswami Ayya, President Gandhi Niketan Ashram Watched this Programme through online. Swamiji Aathiprabhanantha, Ramakrishna Math, Madurai delivered Special  address.

Special address by Swami Aathiprabhanantha

Swamiji talked about the importance of  youth day. He asked the students to take three Oaths on this day.

  1. Every one must  have aim in life.
  2. In life we have to choose one role model.
  3. That role model should be swami Vivekanandar.

    According to that we lead our life.

Don’t take cine stars  and cricket Players as role model. Swami Ramakrishna Parahamsar was Vivekanandar‘s Guru. This made Vivekanandar to get sacredness to himself as well as the world.

Vivekanandar spread the spirituality of India to all over the world. Think good and react according to it Vivekananda did  it. So he was praised by all. Sri.M.Nagarajan HM thanked all. The meeting came to an end with the National Anthem.

THIRUVATHIRAI – 06.01.2023

Thiruvathirai was celebrated at vinayagar temple in our Ashram. It is our traditional occasion to receive the Margali bhajan. We all assembled at 7.00 a.m. Lord Natarajar and Sivakami Ammal were kept ready for special Pooja.

Special Pooja to Lord Natarajar and Sivakami ammal

Abisegams were performed. Our Ashram president Prof.Dr.R.Venkataswami Ayya and also watched this Thiruvathirai function through online. Special Arathana was performed with different types of deepas. Finally prasadam kazhi and pongal were distributed to all.

Thiruvathirai meeting started with the prayer at 3.30p.m in our Auditorium.  Sri.M.Nagarajan H.M. Welcomed all. Smt.Dr.V.Geetha Secretary Gandhiniketan  Schools presided over the meeting. Sri.Dr.N.RamaniSekar Governing body member  delivered a talk about Thiruvathirai. He told  that Lord shiva’s birth star is Thiruvathirai Lord Narayana’s Birth star is Thiruvathirai .

On Thiruvathirai Day the following sacred functions are celebrated.

  • Bhagavath Geetha Jayanthi
  • Avathar of Thathathraya swamigal
  • The marriage of lord shiva and parvathi.
  • Lord Shiva became Natarajar

 The name Aruthra means Metal juice. Lord shiva danced in Chithambaram at Kanahasabai in the name of Natarajar.

Chenthanar, Lordsiva is devotee offered food  to disciple of shiva daily. Only after that he used to eat seeing this lord shiva came as a person he got food from chenthanar. Chenthanar gave Ragimudde (kali).From that day onwards kali is given as prasadam on Thiruvathirai days.

Lord shiva prayed in the leaves of “vilva” This type of prayer is equal to “AswaMedhayagam”.

Thiruvathirai (Arudhra) in Tamil means sacred big wave“.  Lord Shiva is praised in tamil by many names.One of them is Athiraiyar from Thiruvathirai(Thiru+ Athirai).

Smt.Muthumari HM thanked all. The meeting came to an end with the national Anthem.

Dr.J.C. Kumarappa’s Birth Anniversary- 04.01.2023

                Dr.J.C. Kumarappa’s Birth Anniversary was celebrated in our Ashram on 4.1.2023. A special prayer was conducted in Gandhimandapam at 6.00am. After the prayer prof.Dr.R.Venkataswami Ayya President, GandhiNiketan Ashram delivered Special message through online.

Special Message by our Ashram President

In his talk, he told that  Kumarappa was the Guruji as well as the father of our institution. He learnt the qualities of punctuality and austerity from his mother. He published many articles based on “Indian Economy”. He took part in freedom movements after he met Gandhiji. When he stayed in our Ashram many great leaders like Vinobaji, RajendraPrasad, Jayaprakash Narayanan visited our Ashram. We should follow the great principles of Dr.J.C.Kumarappa. Dr.V.Ragupathi, Governing Body Member, Gandhi Niketan Ashram talked about  “Economic Permanance”.

Written by Dr.J.C.Kumarappa. Dr.J.C.Kumarappa was a Yogi. He was very much interested in Natural Agriculture. Teachers and students must read the books of by Dr.J.C.Kumarappa. That is the real tribute to him.

We all gathered in Shanthivanam at 9.00A.M. for Namasangeerthanam. Governing Body members Smt.P.Thilagavathi and Smt.V.Radha also participated in the Bhajan. After that we paid a floral tribute to Founder’s samathi, Kumarappa’s samathi and the statues of our Founder and Gandhiji.

Bajan at santhivan

Floral tribute at Kumarappa kudil 
Floral tribute at Kumarappa’s samathi

                                           

The public meeting was conducted at 10.15 A.M in our Auditorium. Smt.Dr.V.Geetha Secretary Gandhi Niketan G.Venkatachalapathy Schools Welcomed all. Prof.Dr.PalaniDurai, Gandhigram, delivered special address through online. He talked about the moral values that are spread in this Institution.

Guests on the daise

Nammalvar, the Natural Agriculturalist, adapted the methods of Dr.J.C.Kumarappa. Gandhiniketan Ashram also follows the same  principle in Agriculture. Dr.Palanidurai asked the teachers to lead life for the society in a simple way.Teachers should work for the welfare of the students.Teachers and students are so blessed to be here. All of us must follow the principles of Gandhiji and J.C.Kumarappa.That is the real tribute to both the leaders.

Sri.P.Subburaj AHM thanked all. The meeting came to an end with the National Anthem.