Maharaja Hari Singh Foundation Initiates Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Diwali Celebration at DPS Jammu, Katra, and Nagbani in collaboration with JKRLM and UMEED

JAMMU, Nov 10: In a groundbreaking initiative, Delhi Public School (DPS) Jammu, Katra, and Nagbani, under the leadership of Pro Vice Chairperson Kunwarani Ritu Singh, organised a Pollution-Free Diwali celebration focused on sustainability and cultural engagement.

The primary objective was to blend traditional and cultural elements into the festivities while promoting an eco-friendly and sustainable approach. DPS collaborated with JKRLM and UMEED Rural Women Organization for a workshop and outreach program, emphasizing “Vocal for Local” and supporting rural women’s economic empowerment.

Students from DPS Jammu, Katra, and Nagbani participated enthusiastically in an eco-friendly Diya and Toran making workshop. This eco-friendly Diwali celebration was enriched by the invaluable contributions of trainers from JKRLM and UMEED, who played a pivotal role in guiding and empowering the participating students. The intricate art of crafting cow dung diyas was imparted skillfully by Sheela Devi and Reva Rajput from Block Udhampur. Meanwhile, the enchanting skill of creating marigold torans was shared by Madhu Devi hailing from Block Bhalwal.

Elevating the creativity further, the students were adeptly trained in customised toran making by Preeti Devi and Babli Devi from Block Khour. This collaborative effort not only instilled traditional craftsmanship but also promoted sustainable practices.

The young minds showcased their creativity by crafting beautiful diyas and torans using sustainable, eco-friendly materials, aligning with the school’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

DPS, known for its commitment to empowerment, inclusion, and sustainability, aimed to make this Diwali special by spreading the light of love and compassion through a focus on an eco-friendly and sustainable future.

Parents of the participating students were invited to the event, where they not only witnessed their children’s creative endeavours but also supported the cause by purchasing eco-friendly products from stalls run by rural women. Colourful and creative hand-made torans, diyas, home-made mala, and tikkis adorned various stalls, captivating the attention of attendees.

The event commenced with a serene rendition of the Om mantra by students from all three schools, followed by a Ganesh Vandana and cultural presentations by DPS Nagbani students. Kuwrani Ritu Singh, along with students, parents, and teachers, actively participated in encouraging and supporting the rural women’s organisation, strengthening them economically.

The momentous occasion was graced by esteem SS Sodhi, Director/PVC DPS Jammu/ Katra Nagbani and Shruti Uppal, Block Program Manager UMEED, Bhalwal enhancing the vibrancy of the celebration.

In a delightful addition, students presented hand-made Diwali greeting cards to guests, showcasing their artistic talents and spreading festive cheer. Further enhancing the cultural exchange, Khadi-certified curated by PVC Kuwarani Ritu Singh were presented to all guests as a symbol of sustainable and indigenous craftsmanship.

The school’s motto “Service Before Self” embodies DPS’s commitment to empowerment, inclusion, and sustainability, making their Diwali celebration a unique and meaningful contribution to a pollution-free future.

The occasion was enriched by presence of Ruchi Chabra, Principal , DPS Jammu, Meenu Gupta, Headmistress DPS Jammu , Simmi Sharma, Manager Administration of DPS Katra, and Manikarnika Sharma, In-Charge Principal, DPS Katra, contributed to the festive spirit with their esteemed presence. Raj Kumar Verma, the Principal, DPS Nagbani, along with Bhawna Madaan, Headmistress, graced the occasion, highlighting the collaborative spirit among the DPS community.