Deepalaya - Enabling Self-Reliance

In order to commemorate Republic day, the Oxford Bookstore, Statesman Building Connaught Place celebrated the spirit of patriotism by hosting a cultural evening for kids from all sections of the society. An initiative of Oxford Kids Club, the event provided a common platform for underprivileged children of Deepalaya and other NGO’s to interact and showcase their talent.

The evening witnessed an enlivening song and dance competition between the students of Deepalaya and Katha, dressed in national colours on songs laced with patriotism. 15 Students of Deepalaya School, Sanjay Colony participated. They displayed confidence and professionalism as they walked away with the First Prize in both the events The event was covered by the Media IBN7 News Channel & Doordarshan.

Renowned Orissi dancer Piyali De’ from Gandharva Mahavidyalaya, a Pune based premier institute engaged in - Education and Promotion of Hindustani Classical Music judged the competition and gave away prizes.. She also was effusive in her praise for our children and took time off to interact with them. She has also expressed her interest in teaching dance to the Deepalaya students.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rajiv Chowdhry, CEO, Apeejay Oxford Bookstores Pvt. Ltd. said, “Republic Day celebrations have begun to be associated with just watching the parade on Television on a National Holiday. Oxford Bookstore always strives to make a difference in the lives of the under-privileged children. The Republic Day celebration with the children of Deepalaya & Katha along with the Oxford Kids Club is an initiative that can help in educating today’s downtrodden generation about the rich Indian legacy and culture, so that they too can appreciate the real meaning of freedom in the true sense. ”