New Delhi: Shyama Prasad Vidyalaya, an esteemed educational institution nestled in the heart of New Delhi, recently commemorated its momentous 75th anniversary, coinciding with India’s 75 years of independence. The exuberant five-day jubilation witnessed a harmonious convergence of alumni, parents, grandparents, and children, all coming together to honor the institution’s illustrious history, rich culture, and remarkable achievements.

Established against the backdrop of history in 1911, during the transition of India’s capital from Calcutta to Delhi by the British Government, the roots of Shyama Prasad Vidyalaya were planted. The endeavor was driven by the need for educational provisions for families moving from Calcutta to Delhi post World War II, leading to the creation of Lodhi Estate and Lodhi Colony. In their quest for quality education, residents rallied to establish a school, seeking support from the New Delhi Municipal Committee. Inaugurated in August 1948, the institution was christened “Shyama Prasad Vidyalaya” as a tribute to the honorable Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, who had graced the inauguration with his presence.

Over the years, the institution thrived and flourished, eventually securing its own abode in Lodhi Estate, an enclave adjacent to the prestigious Lutyens’ Delhi. Manifesting the dreams of its founding visionaries, the school emerged as a distinguished learning center in Delhi. The celebratory ambiance at Shyama Prasad Vidyalaya resonated with merriment as attendees immersed themselves in many activities and attractions. The school premises came alive with bustling shopping stalls, captivating cultural presentations, and engaging creative workshops showcasing the students’ exceptional talents and accomplishments. The innovative science exhibition curated by the students was particularly noteworthy, earning accolades from all quarters.

Adding to the festive fervor, Tarun Jain, a distinguished Numismatist & Philatelist, presented his meticulously curated collection of rare stamps, coins, polymer banknotes (both Indian and foreign), memorabilia, and Maxim cards commemorating a century of Indian cinema, among other treasures. This collaborative creation, involving the contributions of nine other enthusiasts – Rakesh Kumar, Pulak Gupta, Vijay Seth, Kuldeep Manash, Sachin Jain, V.K Paul, Chinmay Basu, and Ravi Raj – transformed the school library into an enchanting haven of antiques, further enriching the celebratory ambiance.

Mr. Satya Ranjan Saha, Vice-President of the institution, expressed his profound contentment at the overwhelming response and triumph of the festivities. He extended heartfelt gratitude to all participants, contributors, and well-wishers who played a pivotal role in making the 75th-anniversary celebration an unforgettable and joyous affair.

Principal Mrs. Suman Doval reflected, “Amidst the grandeur of Shyama Prasad Vidyalaya’s 75th-anniversary celebration, we unfurled a tapestry of excellence, woven with our community’s collective spirit and enduring passion. Preserving our cherished legacy for generations to come, over 1200 students, both boys and girls, have thrived under our tutelage. In the company of esteemed dignitaries such as V. Lalithalaksmi (IAS), Director, PMO, Government of India, Ujjaini Dutta (IAS), Resident Commissioner in Delhi, and Meenakshi Lekhi, Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, among other luminaries, we rejoiced in the essence of our remarkable 75-year journey.”