‘Green Crusaders’ of St Aloysius Gonzaga School End Month Long Activities of ‘Vanamahotsava’
Mangaluru : Van Mahotsav is a festival which was started by Kulapati Kanaiyalal Munshi Ji, the Union Minister for Agriculture to create enthusiasm among masses for forest conservation and planting trees. It is now become a week-long festival. ‘Van’ means ‘forest’ and ‘mahotsav’ means ‘festival’ “Van Mahotsav” means Festival of Forests . Van Mahotsav is an annual tree planting movement in India which began in the year 1950. It has gained significant , national importance and every year, millions and millions of saplings are planted all across India in observation of the Van Mahotsav week. The festival raises the awareness of trees among people, and highlights the need for planting and tending of trees as one of the best ways to prevent global warming and reduce pollution.
Locally, at St Aloysius Gonzaga School, Kodialbail-Mangaluru in order to sensitize the students and prepare the environmentalists for tomorrow, the month of July was observed as Vanamahotsava under the title, ‘Green Crusaders’. The project culminated on 26th July 2019 in the school hall. Vineeth Kumar K, Assistant professor, Zoology Department of St Aloysius College was the Chief Guest. Rev Fr Melwyn Anil Lobo SJ presided over the function. Vice Principal Mrs Jacintha D’Costa graced the occasion.
The Chief Guest addressed the students and inspired them to love and conserve nature through his talk and motivating video presentation. The Principal in his address highlighted the importance of conserving the nature by using minimum resources. He also appreciated the students who had taken extra efforts in planting and nurturing plants in their home. The principal recognized the efforts put in by the students towards the betterment of the environment, and presented certificate of appreciation to two students for their unique and innovative ideas towards the Mother Nature- the two students were Mohammed Ateef Ashraf and Sayed Rihan.
To lend a green touch and to sensitize Gonzagaites about the role in conserving nature a sapling was planted in the school premises by the Principal and school cabinet members after the programme. The project was held throughout the month with the aim of creating awareness on conserving nature with various hands on and fun filled activities. The welcome address was delivered by School Head Girl-Miss Nicole Ria Saldanha; Significance of the Day was given by Miss Claire Abigail of VIII Std; Vote of thanks by Miss Shayne Pereira-Xth Std; and the programme was compered by Miss Carol Mikhail Furtado. Ms. Aparna Suresh, Ms. Anila John, Ms. Beena Pais and Ms. Priya Serrao were the conveners who ably executed the project. The programme concluded by singing the school anthem.
In conclusion, in my perception-Think about the generations and to say we want to make it a better world for our children and our children’s children. So that they know it’s a better world for them; and think if they can make it a better place. There’s a place in your heart And I know that it is love And this place could be much Brighter than tomorrow. And if you really try You’ll find there’s no need to cry In this place you’ll feel There’s no hurt or sorrow. There are ways to get there If you care enough for the living Make a little space, make a better place.
Ending this column with lyrics from pop singer Late Micahel Jackson, “Heal the world” Make it a better place For you and for me and the entire human race There are people dying If you care enough for the living Make a better place for You and for me”-The “Heal The World” short film furthered Michael Jackson’s goal of making art and music that would inspire worldwide peace, love and tolerance, by showcasing a diverse group of children united in their abilities to love unconditionally and their wishes for a brighter future -WATCH THE VIDEO
