In our multicultural society we need to instill and enforce the universal values of brotherhood, tolerance, peace, and compassion in our children. A celebration in the form of special assemblies is an effort to sensitize students towards living in harmony in a diverse society. They are encouraged to use their critical thinking skills and to work for a safer and better environment to facilitate a happy, and harmonious coexistence with all of humanity.
The need of the hour is to develop better understanding of our own culture, to awaken greater respect for others, and to inculcate a deep sense of consciousness. Living life consciously will help children live well and do what is appropriate and required for not just their own well being but also that of the society. The story of Ravana and of his end is symbolic of a life lead without awareness and consciousness.Despite the immense knowledge and powers that Ravana wielded, he did not lead a conscientious life and did not translate his knowledge into good actions; on the contrary, he used his knowledge for wicked purposes. Ram on the other hand translated all his knowledge into good actions and put his energies into giving joy to one and all. To communicate the fact that ultimately it is truth and virtue that prevails over all evil, Staford School celebrated Dussehra in the school campus with the traditional festivities followed by Ravan Dahan.
The celebrations included a talk on the significance of celebrating the festival; an interaction on the relevance of the teachings from Ramayan in modern life; a skit by class 5A depicting the events leading up to the triumph of Ram over Ravana, signifying the victory of good over evil; a dance drama performed by classes 6 and 7 on “Mahishasur Mardini” which demonstrated the killing of the demon by Devi Durga, followed by consigning to flames, the effigy of Ravana- all of which underscored the message that truth always prevails.