Under-19 Volleyball Team Shines at ISSO Nationals
Under-19 Volleyball Team Shines at ISSO Nationals The boys’ Under-19 team from Vishwashanti Gurukul World School recently participated in the ISSO National Volleyball Competition, hosted at our school, VGWS, and proudly clinched the gold medal in their category. The journey for the team began at last year’s ISSO National Games, where they gave it their all but finished in 4th place. While proud of their efforts, the team was determined to come back stronger and aim for the top. Over the past year, they dedicated themselves to rigorous practice sessions, tirelessly improving their skills, strategies, and gameplay. These sessions included focused coaching to enhance passing, setting, and hitting techniques while also building mobility and agility. There were days when the team faced setbacks that felt like insurmountable obstacles: injuries, tough matches, and the challenge of balancing academics with practice. Yet, their determination to achieve success never wavered. The ISSO Volleyball Championship proved to be an incredible and thrilling experience. The team faced tough and resilient opponents, equally determined to succeed. This championship provided invaluable exposure to different playing styles, strategies, and competition levels. The highlight was the spirit of fair play, thanks to the referees and coaches who ensured an equitable contest. Strategically, the team employed 5-1 and 4-2 rotations, interchanging them based on the opponents’ strategies. This allowed for consistent playmaking, a better balance between offence and defence, and less fatigue for the players. Their coach played a vital role, offering real-time feedback on mistakes and gaps, such as leaving large spaces on the court, and providing actionable solutions like improving positioning based on the attacker’s angles. Adding to the event’s success were the CAS stalls set up by our school students, offering various food and drinks, such as nachos, Maggi, and beverages. These stalls provided much-needed refreshments to players throughout the day. The funds raised were donated to charities and NGOs supporting causes like girl child education. While this victory is sweet, it also serves as a stepping stone. Our volleyball team has set a shining example for all students: success stems from dedication and hard work. Let’s use this moment to inspire excellence in all our pursuits—whether in academics, arts, or athletics. By Devam Ambaliya Apply Now
A Journey Through Sri Lanka
A Journey Through Sri Lanka: A Week of Beauty, Culture, and Adventure Sri Lanka is a land of beauty and wonder, filled with ancient landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, and rich traditions. Each day on this seven-day journey revealed new facets of Sri Lanka. Our adventure began at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a heartwarming place dedicated to the rescue and care of orphaned elephants. Watching these gentle giants up close offered a unique glimpse into their lives, and we all had the chance to feed and pet these adorable and magnificent creatures. Just nearby, we encountered the creativity of the poo paper industry, where paper is made from elephant dung. This was an inspiring example of sustainable innovation and a truly insightful experience. Later, we had the chance to observe elephants in their natural habitat during a river bath—a soothing and memorable sight. As the day came to a close, we explored the awe-inspiring Dambulla Caves. This UNESCO World Heritage site, with its intricate Buddhist murals and statues, offers a serene view into the spirituality and history of Sri Lankan culture. Day two took us to the historic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a breathtaking ascent. We learned that the terraces and steps of the entire fortress were made from a stone that reflected moonlight, highlighting the ancient engineering and artistry etched into every rock and terrace. The panoramic view from the top was mesmerizing, but the real beauty lay in the stories of kings and kingdoms embedded in this ancient site. We explored the Sigiri graffiti, Lion’s Paw entrance, Boulder Garden, Mirror Wall, and the throne of the kings who once resided there. After Sigiriya, we embarked on a village tour that immersed us in the daily life of Sri Lanka’s rural communities. From a bullock cart to a tractor ride, followed by a delightful lunch at a local family’s home, we observed traditional cooking methods, farming practices, and the warm hospitality that forms the roots of the Sri Lankan people. We even participated in a pottery workshop! The day concluded with a visit to a spice plantation, a fragrant journey through Sri Lanka’s rich spice heritage, where we learned about the aromatic spices that play a central role in Sri Lankan cuisine and medicine. We had the opportunity to test out ayurvedic creams and oils, as well as taste a special spice tea that highlighted the unique use of spices in Sri Lankan cuisine. Kandy, Sri Lanka’s spiritual heart, greeted us on day three. We visited the revered Temple of the Tooth, home to one of Buddhism’s most sacred relics. We learned about the Kandy pageant, featuring the king’s elephant and dancers, which is one of the biggest ceremonies in South Asia, and observed the deep devotion of the Sri Lankan people. From sacred treasures, we then moved to earthly ones at a gem emporium, where we explored Sri Lanka’s world-renowned gemstones, learning about their significance and craftsmanship. Following this, a visit to a wood carving workshop demonstrated the use of natural colors and different types of woods, showcasing the country’s artistic traditions. Skilled artisans transform wood into works of art. As the evening fell, a cultural dance performance brought the day to a vibrant close. The Kandyan dance is a traditional form of Sri Lankan dance, considered a sacred artwork and the national dance of the country, with rhythmic beats, graceful moves, and colorful costumes. The performance was followed by a stunning fire walk, one of the most moving experiences of the trip. Next, we ascended to Sri Lanka’s lush hill station, Nuwara Eliya. At the Bluefield Tea Factory, we observed the art of tea-making, learning about Sri Lanka’s renowned tea industry and savoring the fresh flavors of Ceylon tea. The tour continued to Ramboda Waterfalls, where the cascade amidst the green landscape created a breathtaking scene. Gregory Lake was our final stop for the day, offering a scenic view of the river, along with the thrilling adventure of jet-skis and speed boats, which the students got to experience! On day five, we visited the Seeta Amman Temple, a site of historical and mythological significance in Hinduism, where it is believed that Sita was held captive in the Ramayana. We then stopped at the Hakgala Botanical Garden, a sanctuary of vibrant and diverse flora, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s botanical treasures. The day concluded at Ravana Falls, another magnificent waterfall linked to the legendary tales of the Ramayana, providing a breathtaking view. Day six was filled with a sense of adventure and discovery. We embarked on a safari early in the morning in Yala National Park, spotting a variety of wildlife, from crocodiles to birds, highlighting the country’s rich biodiversity. Afterward, a tranquil boat ride on the Madu River offered a closer view of the rich mangrove ecosystems and birdlife. We also visited a turtle hatchery, where we witnessed conservation efforts firsthand, with dedicated individuals working to protect endangered sea turtles. We not only learned about various turtle species but also got to hold the turtles and observe adorable newly-hatched sea turtles! On our final day, we indulged in a bit of modern-day Sri Lanka at the House of Fashion in Colombo, a favorite shopping destination for both locals and visitors. With vibrant fabrics, traditional attire, and contemporary styles, it was a fitting way to end our journey. Our seven-day adventure through Sri Lanka has been a mosaic of nature, culture, and adventure. From ancient sites to natural wonders, from sacred temples to innovative conservation efforts, each experience reflected Sri Lanka’s vibrant heritage and the kindness of its people. It was truly a most memorable trip, where we all got to experience the wonder of Sri Lanka. Apply Now
CAS Initiative Shines at Global Educational University Fair
Empowering Students Through Creativity, Entrepreneurship, and Service On September 21st, MIT Vishwashanti Gurukul hosted its highly anticipated Global Educational university Fair, welcoming universities from around the world to present their academic programs to our Diploma Program students. While the university fair provided invaluable opportunities for students to explore higher education options. On this occasion DP students set a CAS initiative as the student-led stalls for raising funds for charity. As part of their CAS service, DP1 and DP2 students set up vibrant stalls featuring a range of food items and creatively crafted accessories. The students took full responsibility for preparing, marketing, and selling their products, turning the university fair into a hub of creativity and entrepreneurship. The beautifully designed accessories and delicious snacks attracted a great deal of attention, adding a lively and engaging element to the event. The sales from these stalls were more than just a business endeavour; they had a meaningful purpose; each and every stall was ready to give their contribution to a social cause, aligning with the core values of the CAS program, which emphasizes service to the community. Beyond the financial impact, the initiative fostered teamwork, creativity, and practical skills, as students learned how to manage stalls, handle transactions, and interact with customers. A particularly heartwarming moment was when students used leftover ingredients from the food stalls to make sandwiches, which they distributed to the school’s support staff, including gardeners, School’s logistic and Housekeeping staff , and security personnel. This gesture of gratitude reinforced the values of empathy and social responsibility that CAS aims to cultivate. The day was marked as “Gratitude Day “ In summary, while the Global College Fair provided a valuable educational experience, it was the CAS stalls that made the event truly special. The students’ creative efforts, combined with their commitment to giving back, transformed the fair into an inspiring showcase of learning, service, and community spirit. – Ketul Borda DP2 Apply Now
CAS Integration Through Nukkad Natak: “E-Waste Unplugged”
Inspiring Change Through Student-Led CAS Initiatives Nukkad Natak is a powerful medium for raising awareness about critical social issues, and our DP students recent performed titled “E-Waste Unplugged” was no exception. This play, brought to life by our talented DP students, focused on the escalating problem of electronic waste (e-waste) and served as both an engaging spectacle and an impactful educational tool. The play was thoughtfully crafted to highlight the environmental and health hazards posed by the improper disposal of electronic waste. Through a series of compelling vignettes, the narrative unfolded across different settings—’Dhalao’ (dump yard), ‘Nadi’ (river), ‘Kheti’ (farm), ‘Jungle’ (forest), and ‘Gaon’ (village). Each vignette vividly portrayed the consequences of e-waste mismanagement in these environments, effectively driving home the importance of responsible e-waste disposal. “E-Waste Unplugged” also integrated the principles of Reuse, Reduce, and Recycle, encouraging the audience to take action in their own lives. By showcasing the harmful effects of e-waste and promoting sustainable practices, our students not only entertained but also educated, leaving a lasting impact on all who watched. This performance was a prime example of CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) in action, where students used creativity to communicate important messages and served the community by raising awareness of environmental issues. Congratulations to all the performers and facilitators for their hard work and dedication! Apply Now
Teacher’s Day Celebration: A Tribute to Our Educators
Teacher’s Day Celebration: A Tribute to Our Educators On September 5th, 2024, our school celebrated Teacher’s Day with a vibrant “Retro Carnival” theme. The day was filled with joy, gratitude, and memorable moments as we honored our amazing teachers. Carnival Spirit and Flipped Classrooms The celebration kicked off with a lively carnival atmosphere, as teachers donned retro outfits, adding a nostalgic touch to the event. The amphitheater, adorned with colorful banners, hanging stars, and a photo booth, set the tone for a day of fun and festivity. The morning included a flipped classroom experience, where Diploma Program (DP) students took on teaching roles for younger grades, giving them insight into the dedication required to be a teacher. Meanwhile, teachers enjoyed a special awards ceremony celebrating their unique qualities and contributions. Cultural Performances and Activities The student-organized cultural program began with a graceful prayer dance by the Early Years Program (EYP) and Primary Years Program (PYP) students, followed by vibrant dance and music performances from Middle Years Program (MYP) and DP students, showcasing their immense talent and creativity. A memorable highlight was a spontaneous sing-along by both teachers and students when a technical glitch occurred during an EYP dance, embodying the spirit of unity and support. The festivities continued with fun games for teachers, including the “Guess the Teacher” challenge and a dance-based version of Chinese whispers, sparking laughter and joy. Sports Competitions The day concluded with exciting sports competitions, including an intense cricket match and a spirited tug-of-war, where teachers and students competed head-to-head, displaying true sportsmanship and teamwork. The afternoon wrapped up with a special lunch, where everyone shared stories and laughter, celebrating the joy and camaraderie of the day. A Heartfelt Tribute This year’s Teacher’s Day was a sincere tribute to the bond between students and teachers—a day filled with gratitude, admiration, and appreciation for the educators who guide and inspire us every day. Here’s to our wonderful teachers—thank you for everything! Happy Teacher’s Day! — By Arnav Kathale and Kristina Sabarna
Investiture Ceremony – A New Chapter of Leadership
On the 10th of August, Vishavashanthi Gurukul World School witnessed an event that marked a new beginning—a day where leadership, responsibility, and unity took centre stage. The Investiture Ceremony for the academic year 2024-2025 was a momentous occasion, celebrating the election of our new student leaders and prefects. The event was not just a formal affair, but one filled with pride, purpose, and harmonious music that resonated throughout the school. As our young leaders, a mix of experienced individuals and new faces eager to make their mark, marched confidently towards the stage, each step symbolized a promise—a promise to serve, lead, and inspire. The presentation of badges was a significant moment, marking the transition from students to leaders, each now carrying the responsibility of guiding their peers and contributing positively to the school community. Our Head Boy and Head Girl delivered speeches that captivated the audience, inspiring every student to approach their duties with pride, compassion, and dedication. They spoke of leadership as not just a position of power, but as an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on those around them. Their words served as a reminder that the journey ahead will be filled with challenges, but with resilience, unity, and determination, these challenges can be turned into opportunities for growth and success. The ceremony was a celebration of the ethos of Vishavashanthi Gurukul, where leadership is nurtured, and each individual is encouraged to rise to their full potential. The Head Boy Rohan emphasized the power of teamwork and the strength that comes from unity. His words highlighted the importance of working together to achieve common goals and reminded us that true leadership lies in the collective effort of the group. The Head Girl Shreya Katariya focused on the qualities of resilience and kindness, urging everyone to be leaders not just in name, but in action. She emphasized that leadership is about lifting others, showing compassion, and facing challenges with courage. Her words resonated deeply, encouraging all to support one another and create an environment of mutual respect and growth. Our proud houses—Agni, Prithvi, Jal, and Vayu—each played an essential role in this ceremony, embodying the core values of the school. Agni House, represented by the Phoenix, symbolizes resilience and rebirth. Their motto, “Arise, Awake & Stop Not Till the Goal is Reached,” reflects their unwavering dedication to achieving success. Prithvi House stands for peace and prosperity. Their motto, “Shanti Samridhi itihi haritaha rangaha,” embodies the spirit of the Earth, nurturing growth and tranquility. Jal House represents compassion and healing, akin to the element of water. Their motto, “Flowing towards excellence,” encourages a path of love, forgiveness, and continuous improvement. Vayu House symbolizes internal strength and intuition. Their motto, “Nil Desperandum,” meaning “Never give up,” represents their determination to overcome any obstacle with hope and faith. The elected student council members of these houses are ready to take on the challenges of the year ahead, guiding the student body with passion and commitment. As we reflect on this significant day, we are filled with confidence in our new leaders. The Investiture Ceremony marked the beginning of a joyful and productive academic year at Vishavashanthi Gurukul World School, a year where every student will have the opportunity to grow, lead, and make a difference. Let us continue to nurture the future leaders of tomorrow, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to shine. Here’s to a year filled with learning, leadership, and the joy of coming together as a strong, united school community. MIT Vishwashanti Gurukul World School Prefect Council 2024-25 Head Boy : Rohan George Head Girl : Shreya Katariya School sports captain – Male : Omraj Karle School sports captain – Female : Kanishka M Maniya School cultural captain – Male : Eshaan Khandelwal School cultural captain – Female : Kristina Sabarna Jal Vayu Agni Prithvi House Captain – Male Ketul Borda Taran Parikh Pratyush Anand Arnav Somvanshi House Captain Female Priya Patel Kavya Ajitsaria Shaivi Mistry Kanira Adlakha House Sports Captain – Male Darshil Bhadiyadra Rayhaan Khurshid Manjra Shauryaveeersinh Shivam Tejpal Gupta House Sports Captain – Female Naina Fernandes Anwesha Mukherjee Khushi Mehtani Vanshita House Cultural Captain – Male House Cultural Captain – Female Deputy House Captain – Male Chaitya Aditi Lodha SIddhant Navin Melant Rohan Choudhari Nivaan Shroff Tonjour Hiya jain Naksh Bablani Arnav Nilesh Kutte Sharva Yelnoorkar Mahi Shah Devansh Indalkar Deputy House Captain – Female Lavanya Charan Harsifat Kaur Akshata Sinha Rucha Bagade Deputy House Sports Captain – Male Aditya Kumar Om Arora Abhiraj Kurade Aman Mundada Deputy House Sports Captain – Female Aparna Sharma Preesha Rajgor Mahek Hindocha Anum Pande Deputy House Cultural Captain – Male Venkatesh Kore Arnav Kathale Luca Nikhil Gautam Deputy House Cultural Captain – Female Shriya Rajesh Jennifer Leslie Trisha Gaikwad Arohi Mundada MYP 5 Raj Punjabi Shaurya Bagrecha Pranjal Patidar Arindum Gai MYP 4 Rayan Moksha Ranawat Upaasna Kothari Aarya Waikar MYP 3 Moulik Maji Ivaan Modi Kavish Bansal Aananya Thakur MYP 2 MYP 1 Rachana Bagade Ojasvi Khandelwal Sharayu Kalbhor Nivaan Kalra Khloee Sayed Sarmalkar Paavni Kathale Aaliya Rahim Aleesha Gupta PYP-House Captain Harshdip H.Pawar Aarnav Ronav Stambhampelli Kiaash S.Sharma PYP-House Captain Zoe G. Wadekar Neyasa A. Bansode Shivanjali V.Bhosale Pavni Josh PYP-Sports Captain Kabir Agrawal Aradhya D. Zara G. Wadekar Mhaske Shlok M.Karopady PYP-Cultural Captain Avika V.Mangeshkar Yajas Manware Vishvayanraj A. Kotkar Viaan Singh
Empowering Future Leaders: CPR Workshop at Vishwashanti Gurukul World School
At Vishwashanti Gurukul World School, Loni Kalbhore, Pune, recognized as one of the Best Day and Residential Schools in India and an IB World School, our commitment to holistic education extends beyond academics, preparing students for real-life challenges. As one of the top IB residential schools in Pune and the Best International School, we ensure that our students are equipped with essential life skills. On the 8th and 9th of August, our IBDP1 and IBDP2 students, who are part of one of the best IB schools in Pune for 11th and 12th, participated in a transformative Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) workshop that aligns seamlessly with their CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) initiatives. By fostering essential values such as empathy, responsibility, and proactivity, we are nurturing a generation of individuals ready to make a difference—one heartbeat at a time. In collaboration with Vishwaraj Hospital, this comprehensive CPR training was led by the esteemed Dr. Vitthal Shendage, an American Heart Association-certified instructor and distinguished anaesthesiologist. Dr. Shendage, with his qualifications including MBBS, DNB, and DA, provided our students with top-tier training in this critical life-saving procedure. Cardiac arrest remains a leading cause of death worldwide, claiming millions of lives annually due to the lack of timely emergency interventions like CPR. This workshop aimed to bridge that gap by educating our students on the importance of early recognition and intervention during cardiac emergencies. Through detailed demonstrations and hands-on practice, they learned to identify symptoms of cardiac arrest, perform CPR, and provide crucial life-saving support until professional medical help arrives. This training session was more than just a theoretical lecture; it was an engaging, interactive experience that allowed students to practice CPR techniques and gain confidence in applying these methods in real-life scenarios. In a world where unexpected medical emergencies can arise at any moment, equipping our younger generation with CPR skills is not only a valuable educational tool but also a moral imperative. As students from one of the top residential schools in Pune, they are now better prepared to create a caring and empowered community, ready to make a positive impact on society.
MYP 5 Graduation Day Ceremony 2024
The Graduation Day Ceremony was conducted in the World Peace Dome on 6th April 2024.The event commenced with the Graduation March where the students of DP 2 proudly filed in front of the parents, as well as the SMT and teachers
DP 2 Farewell
The Graduation Day Ceremony was conducted in the World Peace Dome on 6th April 2024.The event commenced with the Graduation March where the students of DP 2 proudly filed in front of the parents, as well as the SMT and teachers
DP Graduation Day Ceremony 2024
The Graduation Day Ceremony was conducted in the World Peace Dome on 6th April 2024.The event commenced with the Graduation March where the students of DP 2 proudly filed in front of the parents, as well as the SMT and teachers