Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, Kanyakumari (Tamil Nadu Prant), celebrated Teachers’ Day, Gokulashtami and Raksha Bandhan Day on 5 September 2026 at the school campus. The programme commenced at 2:00 p.m. and witnessed the participation of 1,260 students, staff and guests. Shri Shritharan Ji, Jilla Boudhik Pramukh, RSS, Kanyakumari District, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Mananeeya Rekha Didi, Joint General Secretary, VRM & VK, presided over the programme. T.N. Rithu of Class XII A compered the programme.
The celebration commenced with an invocation, followed by the welcome address delivered by Kum. Haritha of Class IX. Students of Classes VII and VIII rendered the devotional song “Achyutam Keshavam”. Kum. Sobana of Class VII spoke about the significance of Gokulashtami and Raksha Bandhan.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Shritharan Ji highlighted the values of love, friendship, sacrifice, Dharma and service through examples from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Referring to the friendship of Sri Krishna and Kuchela, he explained the importance of genuine affection and compassion. He described Raksha Bandhan as a festival that strengthens unity and mutual responsibility.
On the occasion of Teachers’ Day, Shri Shritharan Ji spoke about the importance of the Guru-Shishya relationship. Through the story of a sculptor and a stone, he explained how a teacher, like a skilled sculptor, guides, corrects and shapes students, helping them develop their abilities, wisdom and character. He also highlighted the importance of environmental responsibility, family values, social harmony, self-reliance and civic responsibility. Students also shared their experiences and thoughts on Teachers’ Day.
As part of the Raksha Bandhan celebration, Kum. Vijishma of Class XI A tied a Rakhi to Shri Koushik of Class IX B, after which Rakhis were also tied to the guests and the Principal, symbolizing affection, protection and mutual responsibility.
In her presidential address, Mananeeya Rekha Didi explained that Raksha Bandhan carries the message of protecting Dharma, serving the nation and supporting those in need. Drawing upon the message of the Bhagavad Gita and incidents from the life of Sri Krishna, she encouraged the students to consciously choose right actions and cultivate noble qualities. She emphasized the power of positive thoughts and advised students to reflect each night on the good deeds performed during the day and plan positive actions for the next day.
As part of the Gokulashtami celebration, the traditional Uriyadi was organized, bringing joy and enthusiasm to the programme. Selva Nithya Teacher announced the prize winners, and the Chief Guest felicitated the 90A toppers and student-teachers. Mananeeya Rekha Didi presented a memento to the Chief Guest.
Keerthi of Class IX proposed the vote of thanks. The programme concluded with Kendra Prarthana, followed by the distribution of Prasadam. The combined celebration of Teachers’ Day, Gokulashtami and Raksha Bandhan conveyed the values of respect for the Guru, Dharma, love, protection, service and harmony, encouraging the students to practise these values in their daily lives.
