Heartfelt Gratitude
This year, the Holi Milan Samoroh 2024 at The Kolkata Customs Club was a beautiful testament to the enduring ties among its alumni. A colorful reunion, this event was not just a festival celebration but a heartwarming get-together that left everyone with a sense of fulfillment and joy
A Warm Welcome
The day began with a sense of excitement and anticipation in the air as the alumni of various batches gathered at the JNV campus, some revisiting after years, others after decades. Each attendee was welcomed with a traditional ‘Tilak’ on the forehead, symbolizing respect and the warmth of the Indian culture, and a fresh ‘Rose’—a gesture that added a touch of softness and nostalgia to the reunion. The simple yet meaningful welcome set the tone for what was to come: a day full of camaraderie and shared memories.
Reconnecting and Reminiscing
As everyone settled in, the formal introductions began. Each alumnus took the stage, sharing their name, the year they passed out from JNV, and the district and state their school belonged to. The diversity of experiences was evident as they spoke about their current occupations, ranging from engineers, doctors, and teachers to entrepreneurs, artists, and social workers. What united them all was the shared experience of growing up within the nurturing environment of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, where lifelong friendships were formed, and values were instilled.
The introductions were not just a formality; they were a trip down memory lane. Each speaker brought a piece of the past with them, reminiscing about school days, recalling pranks, late-night study sessions, cultural events, and the timeless friendships that had stood the test of time. There was laughter, a few tears, and an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the institution that had played a crucial role in shaping their lives.
A Feast for the Soul
Following the introductions, everyone gathered for a community lunch—a feast that was as delicious as it was symbolic of the togetherness that defined the day. The meal, prepared with love and care, featured a variety of dishes that catered to the diverse tastes of the attendees, bringing a sense of home and warmth to the gathering. It wasn’t just about the food; it was about the shared experience of eating together, of sitting side by side, and catching up with old friends over plates full of mouthwatering delicacies.
The lunch break also provided the perfect opportunity for informal chats, where stories flowed freely, and the laughter echoed through the dining hall. It was a moment to relax and enjoy the simple pleasure of being in the company of people who, despite the passage of time, still felt like family.
Recognition and Celebrations
Post-lunch, the event moved into a more formal yet joyful segment— Felicitation. This was a time to recognize the contributions and achievements of the alumni. It was a way of acknowledging not just professional success but also the spirit of giving back to society, a value deeply rooted in the Navodaya tradition. Each felicitation was greeted with applause, cheers, and a sense of pride that was shared by everyone present.
Playing Holi: A Riot of Colors and Emotions
With the formalities out of the way, it was time for the most awaited part of the day—playing Holi. Colors filled the air as everyone took to the grounds, smearing each other with vibrant hues, laughing, dancing, and celebrating the festival with abandon. The joy was palpable, the energy infectious, and the spirit of Holi brought out the child in every one of them. It wasn’t just about playing with colors; it was about rekindling the joy of being together, of forgetting the worries of life for a while, and of celebrating the bonds that had stood strong over the years.
The playful banter, the splashes of color, the loud cheers, and the music created an atmosphere of sheer bliss. For a few hours, everyone was transported back to their school days, where the only thing that mattered was the joy of being with friends. The celebration was not just a festival; it was a reaffirmation of the friendships that had been formed years ago and had only grown stronger with time.
A Promise to Meet Again
As the day drew to a close, and the sun began to set, it was time for goodbyes. But these were not just farewells; they were promises—to stay connected, to meet again, and to keep the spirit of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya alive in their hearts. Hugs were exchanged, contact details were updated, and plans for the next reunion were already being discussed.
The Holi Milan Samoroh 2024 was more than just an event; it was an experience—a beautiful, heartfelt gathering that left everyone with a deep sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. It was a reminder that no matter where life takes us, the bonds we form in our formative years are unbreakable. As everyone bid adieu, there was a shared understanding that this was not the end but merely a pause before the next meeting, the next celebration of togetherness.
And as they walked away, the colors of Holi still fresh on their faces and clothes, there was a smile on everyone’s face and a warmth in their hearts—a feeling that they were part of something special, something that time could never take away.
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