Every year, our School Pastor celebrates a festival from the various religious traditions of India to promote the value of secularism and unity in diversity. For the academic year 2025–2026, the festival of Diwali was chosen and joyfully celebrated on 17th October 2025 by the Parent–Teacher Association (PTA) for all three sections of the school — Pre-Primary, Primary, and Secondary.

The celebration began with the warm welcome of our esteemed guests:
Rev. Fr. Francis Swamy – School Manager,
Ms. Monica Rose – Principal,
Ms. Heena Pereira – Supervisor,
Ms. Minelia Monteiro – Primary Headmistress, and
Ms. Sandra Macman – Pre-Primary Coordinator.

The program commenced with the lighting of the diya, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness, followed by a prayer service invoking divine blessings for peace and harmony.

The PTA then narrated the story of the Ramayana, highlighting the return of Lord Rama, Sita Mata, and Lakshman to Ayodhya after defeating the evil Ravana — a tale popularly associated with Diwali celebrations in the northern parts of India. This narration was beautifully followed by a dance performance, “Ram Ayenge,” performed by our parents and PTA members, depicting the grand welcome of Lord Rama and his family.

The next segment focused on how Diwali is celebrated in southern India, featuring a narration and PPT presentation on the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narkasura. Following this, our PTA members highlighted the importance of celebrating an eco-friendly “Green Diwali.” Through another engaging PPT and a live skit, they conveyed the message of supporting local artisans — encouraging everyone to buy diyas, rangoli colors, and festive items from local vendors instead of purchasing them online, so that everyone can share the joy of Diwali.

The program concluded with a foot-tapping, energetic dance performance by the PTA, parents, and teachers to the lively tune of “Hay Gulabi Gulabi Mausam – Happy Diwali.” The audience thoroughly enjoyed the performance, which filled the atmosphere with festive cheer and excitement.

The celebration was not only entertaining but also deeply meaningful, reminding everyone of the true essence of Diwali — the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. Students were encouraged to celebrate Diwali with love, care for the environment, and compassion for others.

So let us all —
Light a lamp of love,
Blast a chain of sorrow,
Shoot a rocket of prosperity,
And fire a flowerpot of happiness!

It was indeed a lively and joyous celebration that united the entire SXBA family in the spirit of Diwali.

Aslam Khan
Vice President, PTA (2025-2026

Ms. Macrina Mascarenhas

Hon. Jt. Secretary (Teacher) PTA