SSK Matriculation Senior Secondary School in Mylapore witnessed a heartwarming and vibrant evening, one that tried handsomely to telescope 25 years into a few fleeting hours under a spotlight. To think one could run through 25 years in 2.5 hours or thereabouts is akin to expecting a snowflake to stay intact in a burning cauldron. But the alumni, students and the school management presented what came close to achieving that — placing in relief, the ethos that has driven those 25 years of education.

The event, which marked the culmination of the Silver Jubilee Celebrations of Sir Sivaswami Kalalaya Matriculation Senior Secondary School, chose gratefulness and allowed the various constituencies — the school management, alumni, staff, students and parents — to bask in the moment.

Old Teachers were felicitated on the occasion of 25th anniversary celebrations of Sir Sivaswamy Kalalaya Matriculation Senior Secondary School.
| Photo Credit:
RAGHUNATHAN SR

It was a soiree in which students and alumni displayed their skills designed just for a stage and an audience . The highlight was a video by the alumni that stitched together individual memories and institutional achievements.

According to a press release, the programme commenced at 4:30 p.m. drawing an audience of alumni, dignitaries, past and present faculty, as well as students. The proceedings got off to a start with a song of worship. Honorary Secretary, Dr. Vatsala Narayanaswami, lit the ceremonial lamp, marking the beginning of the evening’s festivities.

25th anniversary celebrations of Sir Sivaswamy Kalalaya Matriculation Senior Secondary School
| Photo Credit:
RAGHUNATHAN SR

A cultural programme, meticulously curated and delectably executed, followed. It was not unbridled entertainment, but one built around the school’s ethos and focus areas. The school has stood as much for cultural expression as for academics, and the choice of performances mirrored that worldview. Alumna Janani rendered a classical song. Students presented an invocatory dance. Alumni Nithila and Tharikasree presented a folk and fusion dance; this performance managed to evoke cherished school memories for many in the audience.

The school boys brought the cultural segment to a thumping close through a lively Western dance performance.

A specially curated video presentation by alumni followed, taking the audience on a touching journey through the school’s rich legacy as well as highlighting the milestones and achievements of the institution, says the press release,.

Akila Senior teacher presented a detailed report highlighting the various activities and services undertaken to commemorate the Silver Jubilee.

The formal meeting began with a warm welcome address by school Principal S.K.Uma Shankar who acknowledged the presence of distinguished guests and lauded the school’s growth over the past 25 years. This was followed by NBGES Presidential Address by Srinivasan K. Swamy who shared his words of wisdom, along with insightful speeches by Honorary Secretary Vatsala Narayanaswami, Joint Secretary and Treasurer S.Sridharan and Secretary Shri V. Subramanian, who reminisced about the institution’s journey and laid out our future aspirations.

A special highlight of the evening was the introduction and felicitation of the Chief Guest, Tennis Legend Ramesh Krishnan, a renowned Indian Davis Cupper, whose presence added prestige to the occasion. The President honoured him with a garland and shawl, followed by the presentation of a memento. Another significant moment was the release of the Silver Jubilee Souvenir, with the first copy being formally handed over to the Chief Guest by the NBGES President.

In his address, Ramesh Krishnan lauded the school’s commitment to holistic education and congratulated the management, teachers, and alumni on reaching this commendable milestone. The programme continued with the felicitation of past and present teachers, acknowledging their relentless dedication and contributions. The event concluded with a gracious Vote of Thanks by the Vice Principal V. Subbulakshmi followed by the National Anthem, which brought the evening to a dignified close.