Pune, August 14, 2023: Marking India’s 77th Independence Day in a distinctive and creative manner, the students of Billabong High International School (BHIS) in Amanora undertook a remarkable art initiative, adorning the school’s walls with a collection of social messages and cultural insights.
Named ’77 Stories from the Nation: Nation First, Always First’, this artistic endeavor beautifully encapsulates the imaginative minds of the students and their unique perspective on India’s journey of progress. The meticulously crafted murals, crafted collaboratively by a passionate team of over 40 students ranging from pre-primary to 9th Grade, are a burst of vibrant colors that evoke a sense of national pride. Each mural weaves together the narrative of India’s cultural heritage, illustrating the remarkable transformation and evolution of the nation over the years.
Aditi Mukherjee, the Principal of BHIS Amanora, shared her thoughts on this initiative, stating, “Our young Billabongers have skillfully turned our school walls into a visual masterpiece. Guided by historical events and fueled by optimism, these murals depict significant milestones in our nation’s history. The transformed walls stand as a testament to our students’ thoughtful expression of what freedom signifies to them.” She further emphasized, “At BHIS, we are dedicated to fostering an open and nurturing environment that empowers students to articulate their ideas, creativity, and imagination at its finest. Our goal is to teach children ‘how to think’ rather than ‘what to think’. We are immensely proud of the students’ remarkable expression.”
One of the participating students, Aarika Gandhi from Grade 9, shared her personal connection to the project, saying, “This art initiative holds a special place in my heart as these creations will forever grace the walls of my school. Collaborating with my peers to paint on such a grand canvas was a tremendous learning experience. I extend a heartfelt thank you to my school and teachers for believing in us and providing us with this unique platform to exhibit our affection for our nation.”
This innovative art project not only commemorates India’s journey to independence but also serves as a powerful medium for the younger generation to express their admiration for their nation’s past, present, and future. The transformation of the school’s walls into a canvas of stories is a testament to the school’s commitment to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a sense of national pride among its students.
