UNIVERSAL BROTHERHOOD DAY CELEBRATION

Universal Brotherhood Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm at the School Assembly Hall of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, Sri Vijaya Puram, on 11th September 2026. The programme was organised to commemorate the historic address delivered by Swami Vivekananda at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago on 11th September 1893, and to spread his timeless message of universal brotherhood, harmony, tolerance and peace.

The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, followed by Mangalacharan. The Welcome Address was delivered by Principal, Smt. Jaya Sivasankaran, who warmly welcomed the dignitaries, staff members, students and guests.

The cultural programme began with an invocation dance, followed by a re-enactment of Swami Vivekananda’s historic Chicago Address, presented by U Divyadarshini, a student of Class X. 

This was followed by a patriotic song presented by the students of Classes VI to VIII. Kashika Bairagi of Class VII-A delivered a thoughtful speech highlighting the significance of Universal Brotherhood Day and the inspiring teachings and ideals of Swami Vivekananda.

The students then presented a vibrant Marathi folk dance, showcasing the rich cultural diversity of India. This was followed by a melodious song on Swami Vivekananda, presented by the students of the Senior Secondary classes.

The programme was graced by Shri Gyan Sheel Dubey, Deputy Director of Education (Academics) and Deputy Education Officer, South Andaman, as the Chief Guest. In his address, he appreciated the talents and efforts of the students and emphasised the importance of preserving and promoting our rich culture, traditions and values. He encouraged the students to remain connected with their cultural heritage and uphold the ideals of unity and harmony.

The Benediction Address was delivered by Swami Shudhananda Saraswati Ji Maharaj, Acharya, Chinmaya Mission, Sri Vijaya Puram. He inspired the students with his valuable words on unity, harmony and the ideals of Swami Vivekananda. He emphasised that every religion and culture should be respected and highlighted the universal significance of Swami Vivekananda’s historic speech at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago.

Altogether, 45 students participated in the cultural programme with great enthusiasm and confidence. Prizes were also distributed to the winners of various Inter-School Competitions, including drawing, song, folk dance and Quiz. 

Prizes were also presented to the winners of the Under-19 Inter-school Football Tournament, which was held on 8th and 9th September 2026 on the occasion of the 50th year celebration of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, Sri Vijaya Puram. Nirmala Senior Secondary School, emerged as the winner, while Carmel Senior Secondary School, secured the runner-up position. The prizes were presented by the Chief Guest, Shri Gyan Sheel Dubey, Deputy Director of Education (Academics).

The programme concluded with the Vote of Thanks proposed by Vice Principal, Smt. Shiny Mohan who expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the dignitaries, guests, teachers, students and everyone who contributed to the successful celebration. Altogether 143 students and 13 teaching and 3 non- teaching staff were present for the occasion. The programme came to a serene conclusion with the chanting of the Shanti Mantra, invoking peace, harmony and well-being for all.

The celebration was a meaningful tribute to the ideals of Swami Vivekananda and served as a reminder that love, harmony, tolerance and respect for all are the foundation of universal brotherhood. It inspired everyone present to embrace diversity, promote harmony and work towards building a peaceful and united society.